Festivals are source of livelihood for many: Modi

New Delhi, July 30 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said myriad festivals of India are not just a mode of entertainment but also a source of livelihood for millions of poor.

During his radio programme "Mann Ki Baat", the Prime Minister said there was an element of 'social economics' attached with the celebration of these festivals.

"Our festivals are not just a mode of entertainment but also a campaign for social improvement. All our festivals are connected with the economic life of poor people," Modi said during his radio address which is broadcast on every last Sunday of the month.

He also spoke of the number of festivals approaching, including Rakhi and Diwali, and said "such festivities also extend an opportunity to the poor to earn their livelihood".

"These festivals connect the individual with the society... As far as the economy is concerned, months before the festival of Rakhi, the manufacturing of 'rakhis' starts in small-scale units across hundreds of families," Modi said.

"Everyone, from the confectioner to the rakhi-maker, benefits economically with the celebration of these festivals," he said.

Remarking on festival of 'Ganeshotsava', approaching soon, he urged people to use only eco-friendly 'Ganesha' idols.

He also said that this year is special for the festival, for this would be 125th such since it was started by Bal Gangadhar Tilak, a freedom-fighter.

"Lokmanya Tilak started the 'Sarvjanik Ganeshotsav' with the basic aim to inculcate the spirit of unity, enhance awareness in society, and promote the culture of togetherness. So this year, we should again, during the Ganesh festival, organise essay competitions, have open discussions and remember the contributions of Lokmanya Tilak," he said.