Agra, Aug 15 (IANS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi's maiden Independence Day addr4ss to the nation Friday roused a lot of positivity and hope here.

"Definitely the public mood is one of hope," said businessman Bankey Lal Maheshwari, who runs a textile shop in Johri Bazar.

"Many in our colony heard Modi speaking from the ramparts of the Red Fort and were impressed with his concern for the basics," Maheshwari added.

Insurance agent Sudheir Gupta told IANS: "Modi's speech was marked by simplicity and really touched the core of our hearts. The focus on farmers and villages, public toilets and need for a national character has made him a hero today, in particular his conciliatory positioning, his compliments to all the former prime ministers and leaders of parties who had contributed to India's development".

Home-maker and school teacher Meera Gupta hoped many parents would now keep an eye on their sons.

"The communication gap appears to have been bridged as the message has gone loud and clear when Modi called himself 'Pradhan Sewak'," said paan-shop owner Rakesh Saini.

"One only hopes that the politicians and public servants take the hint and change their attitude," he added.