Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his debut on Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath’s podcast, People by WTF, humbly admitted, “I’m only human, not god.” The statement, made during the candid conversation, underscores his grounded approach despite the challenges of leading the nation.
The podcast began with Nikhil Kamath expressing his apprehension about his Hindi fluency. Born and raised in Bengaluru, Kamath jokingly shared, “Sir, please forgive me if my Hindi is not good. I grew up mostly in Bangalore, my mother is from Mysuru, and my father is from near Mangalore. I learned Hindi in school but lack fluency.”
PM Modi, known for his ability to connect, reassured Kamath with warmth: “Hum dono ki aise hi chalegi” (We will manage together like this). His response lightened the mood, showcasing his relatable and approachable personality.
PM Modi’s Journey: Childhood and Political Aspirations
During the two-hour podcast, PM Modi delved into anecdotes from his life, including his childhood struggles and humble beginnings. “I used to wash the clothes of all my family members. Because of that, I was allowed to go to the pond,” he shared, reflecting on the simplicity of his upbringing.
Growing up in Vadnagar, Gujarat, PM Modi faced several challenges that shaped his character. From helping his father sell tea at a railway station to later running his own tea stall, his early years were marked by resilience and a determination to rise above adversities. He credited these experiences for instilling a deep understanding of people’s struggles, which he carries with him as a leader.
Discussing his transition into politics, PM Modi explained how his interest in public service began with his involvement in the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). The discipline, values, and focus on serving the nation guided his decision to dedicate his life to politics. His journey to becoming the Prime Minister was not without hurdles, but he emphasized the importance of staying committed to one’s goals and learning from failures along the way.
Handling Stress and Managing Policies
When asked about handling stress in a high-pressure role, PM Modi candidly shared his strategies. “Mistakes happen, and I too can make some. I am also a human, not god,” he stated, acknowledging the challenges of governance.
PM Modi revealed that he relies on a combination of mindfulness, structured routines, and unwavering focus to manage his responsibilities. “I wake up early every day and dedicate time to yoga and meditation. These practices help me stay calm and centered,” he said.
He also emphasized the importance of staying connected to the people. “Listening to the concerns and feedback of citizens keeps me grounded. It reminds me why I am here and what needs to be done,” he shared. This connection, according to PM Modi, fuels his drive to continuously improve and address critical issues with a solution-oriented mindset.
The Prime Minister also spoke about the importance of teamwork in achieving success. “No leader can work alone. It is a collective effort involving many talented individuals. I am fortunate to have a dedicated team that shares my vision for the nation,” he added.
PM Modi on Modern Communication and Adaptation
One of the key highlights of the podcast was PM Modi’s discussion on the evolving nature of communication. By participating in a podcast, a modern medium gaining immense popularity among younger audiences, he showcased his adaptability. “As leaders, we must use platforms that resonate with people, especially the youth. It is important to communicate in ways that are relevant and accessible,” he said.
The Prime Minister has consistently embraced technology and social media as tools to engage with citizens. His use of platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and YouTube has allowed him to reach millions of people directly, breaking barriers of traditional communication.
Through this podcast, he took another step toward connecting with diverse audiences. He also shared his appreciation for how podcasts can offer in-depth, meaningful conversations that go beyond soundbites.
Inspirational Anecdotes From PM Modi’s Life
The podcast was filled with several inspirational anecdotes that offered a glimpse into PM Modi’s life and personality. For instance, he shared how he dealt with setbacks early in his career and the lessons he learned from them. “Setbacks are a part of life. They teach us resilience and push us to find innovative solutions,” he said.
PM Modi also spoke about his philosophy of never letting success lead to complacency. “Every day is a new opportunity to serve the people. There is no room for complacency when you are responsible for the welfare of millions,” he remarked.
A particularly moving story from his childhood involved his interactions with people from diverse backgrounds. “Even as a child, I was curious about people and their stories. I would spend hours listening to travelers who stopped at the railway station. Those conversations broadened my understanding of the world,” he said.
A Groundbreaking Podcast Appearance
The podcast trailer, shared by PM Modi on X, generated immense anticipation among his followers. “I hope you all enjoy this as much as we enjoyed creating it for you!” PM Modi wrote, inviting listeners to tune in.
The two-hour-long episode has been lauded for its depth and the Prime Minister’s candidness. By sharing his vulnerabilities, experiences, and strategies, PM Modi struck a chord with the audience, making it a memorable debut.
This move also highlights a shift in political communication, with leaders increasingly adopting platforms like podcasts to engage with the public. PM Modi’s appearance on People by WTF is a testament to his commitment to staying connected with citizens and embracing innovative ways to communicate.
What This Means for Indian Politics?
PM Modi’s participation in the podcast reflects his understanding of changing communication trends. By stepping into a format known for fostering long-form, personal conversations, he has opened the door for other political leaders to follow suit.
This shift could significantly impact how politicians connect with the public, offering a platform for thoughtful discussions beyond the constraints of traditional media. It also aligns with PM Modi’s vision of using technology to bridge gaps and foster inclusivity.
As the podcast continues to gain traction, it is evident that this approach has resonated with people from all walks of life. PM Modi’s humility, candor, and ability to relate to others have set a new standard for political leaders in the digital age.