Independence Day 2027: PM Modi dons red Bandhani safa — A look at Prime Minister's saga of turbans since 2014

This year, on the 80th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi donned a traditional red Bandhani-print Rajasthani safa (turban) styled with a prominent tail, keeping up with his captivating sartorial choices during Independence Day events over the years.

Marked the 80th Independence Day with his signature flair, PM Modi paired his white kurta and chocolate-brown vest with a traditional turban, common in Rajasthani and Gujarati culture. He also sported three pocket squares of saffron, green and white colours.

PM Modi's turban game in the past

Since his first address in 2014, the PM's vibrant turbans have served as his signature element for the occasion. They aren't just a pop of colour; they act as a carefully curated homage to India's rich regional textiles, craftsmanship, and cultural heritage.

The pagadi — or safa, as it’s called in Rajasthan, worn by PM Modi carries meaning in its cloth, print and drape. It reflects upon the community behind the weave, the state it hails from, and occasionally sends a political message.

Here's a colourful trip down memory lane:

2014: For his maiden Independence Day address, the PM set the tone with a bright red Jodhpuri bandhej turban, elegantly finished with contrasting green accents.

2015: He switched things up with a sunny yellow base turban covered in a striking multi-coloured criss-cross pattern of red and deep green.

2016: Embracing the classic tie-and-dye technique, he sported a vibrant bandhej turban in eye-catching hues of pink and yellow, complete with a long, dramatic trailing end.

2017: A mix of bright red and yellow took centre stage this year, enhanced by a subtle, intricate golden criss-cross design woven all over the fabric.

2018: Leaning into warmer hues, he donned a bright saffron turban accented with delicate red motifs and a flowing tail swaying in the August breeze.

2019: A nod to Rajasthan's textile heritage, the PM wore a multi-coloured safa featuring the traditional leheriya wave pattern, creating a beautiful ripple effect.

2020: During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, he chose a vibrant saffron and cream safa with an extended tail. In a memorable practical touch, he complemented it with a white and saffron stole that doubled as a protective face mask.

2021: Saffron returned as the base colour, this time adorned with red patterns and featuring a distinctly long, flowing pink trail.

2022: In perfect alignment with the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, his headgear beautifully mirrored the national flag. He wore a crisp white turban decorated with saffron and green stripes.

2023: The classic Rajasthani bandhani print made a comeback, featuring a lively, multi-coloured palette of yellow, green, and red.

2024: He opted for another leheriya print, but this time with bold streaks of bright orange, dark green, and yellow, finished with a deeply pleated long tail.

2025: For the 79th Independence Day, he made a striking, monochromatic statement. He wore an all-saffron safa matched perfectly with a saffron waistcoat and a crisp tricolour stole.

From the wave-like leheriya to the intricate dotted bandhej, each choice stood as a proud nod to the weavers and artisans of India. As the countdown to the 2026 Independence Day celebrations begins, the sartorial speculation is officially on!

PM Modi extends Independence Day wishes

PM Modi extended warm greetings on the occasion of Independence Day.

"We remember with gratitude the countless freedom fighters whose courage, sacrifice and unwavering commitment ensured the end of colonial rule. Their dreams continue to inspire us as we work together to build a Viksit Bharat," he posted on X on Saturday.

He added, "Powered by 140 crore Indians, our nation is scaling new heights of progress across different sectors. May this journey keep progressing at an even greater pace in the times to come."

PM Modi marked the beginning of the celebrations by first paying a floral tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat.

He was then received by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, MoS Defence Sanjay Seth, and Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh at Red Fort, Delhi. He also received the Guard of Honour.

The national flag was hoisted, and the tricolour received a 'Rashtriya Salute'.

In a first for Independence Day celebrations, 'Vande Mataram' was rendered at the Red Fort complex during the anniversary of the historic occasion on August 15, followed by the recitation of the national anthem at the grand event.

An Army band played the tune of 'Vande Mataram' as the guests present on the occasion sang the national song. This was followed by the prime minister hoisting the national flag, and then the national anthem was recited.

At 7:40 am, PM Modi addressed the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort. It was his 13th consecutive address to the nation from the historic ramparts of the Red Fort here.