Darjeeling woman receives PM Modi’s signed letter for sketch

Shilpa Harijan, a resident of Pelkujote near Radha Gobindo Mandir in Kawakhali in Darjeeling district, expressed pride and happiness after Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent her a signed letter appreciating a portrait she sketched and presented during a public event in Siliguri, West Bengal.

Harijan attended the Prime Minister’s rally at Kawakhali Ground in Siliguri on April 12 carrying the hand-drawn portrait of Mr Modi. The sketch was collected by the Special Protection Group Commandos and submitted to the Prime Minister.

Speaking about receiving the letter, she said, “I received the signed appreciation letter at around 4 pm recently and felt proud and happy. I live in Siliguri’s Pelkujote. I attended the Prime Minister’s rally on April 12th at Kawakhali Ground. I had sketched him and took it there. It was collected by the SPG Commandos and submitted. He probably liked it very much. He was happy and sent me a signed letter, which I Received yesterday at 4 pm.”

She also expressed hope that the Prime Minister’s government would be formed in the state, allowing people to experience good governance. “I am very happy and feel proud. I hope that his government is formed here this time and we get a chance to live under good governance,” she added.

In his letter dated April 24, Prime Minister Modi addressed Harijan directly, stating, “It was most heartening to receive a beautifully sketched portrait from you during a public function in West Bengal. I sincerely appreciate the effort and dedication reflected in your work.”

The Prime Minister noted that such gestures demonstrate a strong emotional connection with the people. “The affection and warmth of people like you have touched me deeply and continue to inspire my commitment to building a progressive New India and a hopeful future for our youth,” he wrote.

Highlighting West Bengal’s cultural heritage, he added, “West Bengal’s cultural heritage is a vibrant blend of intellect and imagination, with its traditions in literature, music, theatre, and visual arts shaping modern Indian thought.”

He praised Harijan’s artistic ability, saying, “Your confident expression and attention to detail reflect great artistic potential. It is inspiring to see such creativity in our youth.”

Concluding the letter, Mr Modi extended his best wishes: “All the best for your future. Yours, Narendra Modi.”

During the rally on April 12, the Prime Minister noticed several supporters holding hand-drawn portraits of him. He briefly paused his speech to accept the artworks and requested supporters to “Write your addresses on the back.” Two weeks later, he fulfilled this promise by sending official letters of appreciation to the artists.

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