Politics

Opinion | Narendra Modi @75: How The Prime Minister Is Redefining Leadership

By News18,Shiv Prakash

Copyright news18

Opinion | Narendra Modi @75: How The Prime Minister Is Redefining Leadership

Amidst international, regional, and bilateral tensions, the development story of Bharat under the extraordinary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has left global strategists not only astonished but also hopeful that in the future, the solutions to global crises may very well emerge from the land of Bharat. The way PM Modi has consistently maintained equanimity and presented precise and targeted solutions during times of peace, war, or disaster, it has strengthened trust and confidence at the global level.
The story of Narendra Modi’s life is an inspiring tale of struggle and dedication. He is a leader who, through his unique leadership and towering personality, has given Bharat a new direction. His leadership abilities, foresight, and humongous public support have made him a highly influential leader. He is a strong and resolute figure who stands firm on his decisions and works tirelessly to achieve his goals. His leadership has placed him among the most influential leaders of both Bharat and the world.
The prime minister is a visionary leader who is optimistic about Bharat’s future. He has launched several ambitious initiatives such as Make in India, which aim to transform Bharat into a developed nation. The widespread support he enjoys from the public, his immense popularity, and the extraordinary impact of his personality have made him a decisive leader capable of implementing even the toughest decisions with ease.
Narendra Modi’s towering personality is a result of his leadership acumen, vision, and public backing. He has faced and overcome many challenges in his life, which reflect his strong willpower and determination.
Narendra Modi spent his early life in the small town of Vadnagar in Gujarat. He was born on September 17, 1950, into the family of Damodardas Mulchand Modi and Heeraben. His family had modest means, and his father ran a tea stall. He completed his schooling in Vadnagar and later earned a degree in Political Science from Gujarat University. From his student days, he was associated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), and it was with the RSS that he began his political journey. Narendra Modi’s entire life has been dedicated to selfless service, and even today, despite holding the highest office in the world’s largest democracy, this spirit remains alive in him.
PM Modi’s impact on the Bhartiya psyche is both profound and far-reaching. His popularity and political acumen are, in many ways, unparalleled. He is a powerful orator who moves people with his words, and a skilled political strategist. With massive public support, the prime minister has taken several bold steps toward economic reform in Bharat, among which the implementation of GST and demonetisation stand out. These economic reforms have played a significant role in strengthening the country’s economy.
The public’s support for him and the sense of following his vision can be clearly seen in nationwide campaigns like Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao and Wed in India (to celebrate wedding ceremonies across different locations of Bharat) and all these initiatives received widespread public support across the country. Through Mann Ki Baat, by sharing the story of an ordinary worker from a village or by honouring frontline workers during Covid-19, he demonstrated that every contribution matters.
One of Narendra Modi’s most remarkable qualities during the difficult time of the Covid-19 pandemic was his ability not just to act at an administrative level, but to understand the emotional depth of the Bhartiya mind and sustain public morale. In an atmosphere filled with fear and uncertainty, he invoked collective energy through simple symbols and cultural connections. His call to beat thalis (plates) and clap hands was an example of how he identified the deep-rooted cultural instinct in Bhartiya society where sound and symbolic rituals are used to convey unity and resolve in times of challenge or celebration.
It was akin to how Mahatma Gandhi made the spinning wheel a symbol of the Swadeshi movement—a simple act with a profound message. Initiatives like Vocal for Local, promoting Bhartiya handicrafts on global platforms, and linking state-level initiatives with central schemes are all reflections of this same vision.
He has emerged as a strong leader on the global stage. By prioritising national interests above all, the strategy he adopted on issues such as US tariffs has shown the entire world that Bharat is not willing to bow down when it comes to protecting its national interests. PM Modi possesses a unique ability to build consensus among nations. Former US President Barack Obama also praised his work ethic, stating that he believes Modi works for the country 24 hours a day. This statement reflects his extraordinary efficiency and dedication.
His foreign policy and diplomatic efforts have earned Bharat a significant role on the global stage. He has focused on strengthening ties with the countries of the Global South. He has amplified Bharat’s voice on international platforms such as the United Nations and the G20. He has placed a strong emphasis on economic diplomacy, which has led to increased trade and investment in the country.
Moreover, he has leveraged cultural diplomacy to strengthen Bharat’s relations with various countries, promoting practices like Yoga and Ayurveda at a global level as part of this effort.
When it comes to technology, he keeps pace with today’s youth. He believes in innovation and actively encourages it. This is one of the key reasons why, during his decade-long tenure, Bharat has become the country with the highest number of start-ups in the world.
He is perhaps the only global leader who believes in direct communication with the public. His monthly radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’ and the interactive session ‘Pariksha Pe Charcha’ with students are successful examples of this approach. Both programmes have had a widespread impact on the public psyche.
Initiatives like ‘Khelo India’ to promote sports and ‘Drone Didi’ to empower women reflect his commitment to bringing real change at the grassroots level. Additionally, through the NaMo App, he has established a direct connection with the people, and by involving the Bharat’s diaspora in the country’s development, he has significantly strengthened Bharat’s soft power on the global stage.
In the Ramcharitmanas, Goswami Tulsidas describes the character of King Janak by saying, “Atulit dhanya Siya Ram ke jaai, Rajsabha binu savad suhaai,” meaning that King Janak, despite being a king, lived like a sage, valuing knowledge and detachment over worldly pleasures and luxuries.
In a podcast with Lex Fridman, when asked about hard work, PM Modi said, “Contentment is always born from the spirit of giving.” The prime minister is a living embodiment of this spirit of Karmayoga.
Since his time as chief minister of Gujarat, he has been known for living a disciplined and simple life. Even after becoming the prime minister, PM Modi has maintained a lifestyle of discipline and simplicity. He regularly practices yoga and meditation and follows a healthy way of living. He believes deeply in spirituality and draws inspiration from spiritual leaders like Swami Vivekananda and Mahatma Gandhi. His ascetic disposition is clearly reflected in both his personal life and his public service.
PM Modi is a devoted patron of Bhartiya culture. He works actively to promote the richness and diversity of Bhartiya traditions. He frequently highlights the greatness of Bhartiya culture in his speeches. He also encourages the arts and supports artists and cultural practitioners.
From time to time, he demonstrates his appreciation for music by playing traditional instruments such as the Sarinda from Assam, the Naghara, a drum associated with the Banjara culture of Maharashtra, and other folk instruments alongside tribal and local artists from regions like Uttarakhand. These moments reflect his deep interest in music.
Narendra Modi’s sensitivity is also reflected in his identity as a writer and poet. He has written several books and poems that convey his thoughts and experiences. In 2007, he launched his poetry collection “Aankh Aa Dhanya Chhe” in Mumbai. On this occasion, he invited Bhairon Singh Shekhawat as the chief guest. At the event, Shekhawat said: “When Modi invited me to the book launch, I thought he was joking. I couldn’t believe he wrote poetry. I’m sorry, Modi ji — I had never imagined that such tenderness resided within you. Today, I see that your personality is a remarkable blend of strength and softness.”
Regarding his book “Jyotipunj”, the revered Mohan Bhagwat remarked: “This is not just a book — it is a deep experience.”
His other works, such as the poetry collection “Jyoti Path” and the inspirational book on exams “Exam Warriors”, serve as a source of motivation for many. The life of PM Modi stands as an inspiration for all those who work in the fields of politics and public service. May the Almighty bless him with a long and healthy life.
The author is the National Joint General Secretary (Organisation) of the Bharatiya Janata Party. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18’s views.