The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi interacted with Lex Fridman in a podcast about various topics today. In a candid conversation, when asked about why he fasts and how he manages, the Prime Minister expressed gratitude to Lex Fridman for his gesture of fasting as a mark of respect for the PM. “In India, religious traditions are deeply intertwined with daily life”, said Shri Modi, adding that Hinduism is not merely about rituals but a philosophy guiding life, as interpreted by the Honorable Supreme Court of India. He emphasized that fasting is a tool for cultivating discipline and balancing the inner and outer self. The Prime Minister noted that fasting heightens the senses, making them more sensitive and aware. He observed that during fasting, one can perceive even subtle aromas and details more vividly. He also highlighted that fasting accelerates the thinking process, providing fresh perspectives and encouraging out-of-the-box thinking. Shri Modi clarified that fasting is not just about abstaining from food; it involves a scientific process of preparation and detoxification. He emphasized that he prepares his body for fasting by following Ayurvedic and yoga practices for several days beforehand and stressed the importance of hydration during this period. Once fasting begins, he views it as an act of devotion and self-discipline, allowing for deep introspection and focus. The Prime Minister shared that his practice of fasting originated from personal experience, starting with a movement inspired by Mahatma Gandhi during his school days. He felt a surge of energy and awareness during his first fast, which convinced him of its transformative power. He highlighted that fasting does not slow him down; instead, it often increases his productivity. He noted that during fasting, his thoughts flow more freely and creatively, making it an incredible experience for expressing himself.
On being asked how he carried out his role as a leader on the world stage, all fasted, and sometimes nine days, Shri Modi highlighted the ancient Indian tradition of Chaturmas, observed during the monsoon season when digestion naturally slows. He remarked that during this period, many Indians follow the practice of consuming only one meal a day. For him, this tradition begins around mid-June and continues until after Diwali in November, spanning four to four and a half months. He added that during the Navratri Festival in September or October, which celebrates strength, devotion, and spiritual discipline, he completely abstains from food and consumes only hot water for nine days. He further shared that during the Chaitra Navratri in March or April, he follows a unique fasting practice by consuming only one specific fruit once a day for nine days. For instance, if he chooses papaya, he eats only papaya throughout the fasting period. He emphasized that these fasting practices are deeply ingrained in his life and have been followed consistently for 50 to 55 years.
The Prime Minister remarked that his fasting practices were initially personal and not publicly known. However, they became more widely recognized after he became Chief Minister and Prime Minister, he added noting that he does not mind sharing his experiences now, as they might be beneficial to others, aligning with his life’s dedication to the well-being of others. He also shared an instance during a bilateral meeting at the White House with former President of USA, Mr. Barack Obama when he was fasting.
On being asked about his early life, the Prime Minister reflected on his birthplace, Vadnagar, Mehsana district in North Gujarat, highlighting its rich historical significance. He noted that Vadnagar was a major center for Buddhist learning, attracting figures like the Chinese philosopher Hiuen Tsang. He mentioned that the town was also a prominent Buddhist educational hub around the 1400s, highlighting that his village had a unique environment where Buddhist, Jain, and Hindu traditions co-existed harmoniously. He emphasized that history was not confined to books, as every stone and wall in Vadnagar told a story. During his tenure as Chief Minister, he initiated large-scale excavation projects that uncovered evidence dating back 2,800 years, proving the city’s continuous existence. Shri Modi remarked that these findings have led to the establishment of an international-level museum in Vadnagar, which is now a major area of study, especially for archaeology students. He expressed gratitude for being born in such a historically significant place, seeing it as his good fortune. The Prime Minister also shared aspects of his childhood, describing his family’s life in a small house without windows, where he grew up in extreme poverty. However, he added that they never felt the burden of poverty, as they had no basis for comparison. His father was disciplined and hardworking, known for his punctuality, he said. Shri Modi highlighted his mother’s hard work and her spirit of caring for others, which instilled in him a sense of empathy and service. He recalled how his mother would treat children with traditional remedies early in the morning, gathering them at their home, and emphasized that these experiences shaped his life and values. The Prime Minister noted that his journey into politics brought his humble beginnings to light, as media coverage during his oath-taking as Chief Minister revealed his background to the public. He expressed that his life’s experiences, whether seen as fortune or misfortune, have unfolded in a way that now informs his public life.
Shri Modi encouraged young people to remain patient and self-confident, emphasizing that challenges are part of life but should not define one’s purpose, when asked for his advice to the young people. He highlighted that difficulties are tests of endurance, meant to strengthen individuals rather than defeat them, adding that every crisis presents an opportunity for growth and improvement. The Prime Minister remarked that there are no shortcuts in life, using the analogy of railway station signs that warn against crossing tracks, stating, “Shortcut will cut you short.” He emphasized the importance of patience and perseverance in achieving success. He also stressed the need to pour one’s heart into every responsibility and live life with passion, finding fulfillment in the journey. Highlighting that abundance alone does not guarantee success, as even those with resources must continue to grow and contribute to society, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of never stopping learning, as personal growth is essential throughout life. He shared his own experience of learning from interactions at his father’s tea shop, which taught him the value of continuous learning and self-improvement. He noted that many people set big targets and feel disappointed if they fall short. He advised focusing on doing something rather than just becoming something, as this mindset allows for continued determination and progress toward goals. He emphasized that true contentment comes from what one gives, rather than what one gets, and encouraged young people to cultivate a mindset centered on contribution and service.
On being asked about his journey in the Himalayas, Shri Modi reflected on his upbringing in a small town, where community life was central. He often visited the local library, finding inspiration in books about figures like Swami Vivekananda and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. This sparked a desire to shape his life similarly, leading him to experiment with his physical limits, such as sleeping outside in cold weather to test his endurance, he added. Highlighting the influence of Swami Vivekananda’s teachings, particularly a story where Vivekananda, despite needing help for his ill mother, could not bring himself to ask Goddess Kali for anything during meditation, an experience which instilled in Vivekananda a spirit of giving, Shri Modi said that this left an impression on him, stressing that true contentment comes from giving and serving others. He recalled an incident where he chose to stay behind and care for a saint during a family wedding, demonstrating his early inclination towards spiritual pursuits. He noted that seeing soldiers in his village inspired him to serve the nation, though he didn’t have a clear path at the time. The Prime Minister mentioned his deep longing to understand life’s meaning and his journey in exploring it. He highlighted his connection with saints like Swami Atmasthanandji, who guided him on the importance of serving society. He shared that during his time in the mission, he met remarkable saints who showered him with love and blessings. Shri Modi also spoke about his experiences in the Himalayas, where solitude and encounters with ascetics helped shape him and discover his inner strength. He emphasized the role of meditation, service, and devotion in his personal growth.
Sharing his experience with Swami Atmasthanandaji in Ramakrishna Mission which led him to a decision to live a life of service at every scale, Shri Modi said that while others may view him as the Prime Minister or Chief Minister, he remains deeply committed to spiritual principles, highlighting that his inner consistency is rooted in serving others, whether through helping his mother care for children, wandering in the Himalayas, or working from his current position of responsibility. The Prime Minister remarked that to him, there is no real difference between a saint and a leader, as both roles are guided by the same core values. He emphasized that while external aspects like attire and work may change, his dedication to service remains constant. He underlined that he carries out every responsibility with the same sense of calm, focus, and dedication.
Discussing about the impact that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has had on his early life, Prime Minister mentioned his childhood fascination with patriotic songs, particularly those sung by a man named Makoshi, who would visit his village with a tambourine. He said that these songs deeply touched him and played a role in his eventual involvement with RSS. He highlighted that the RSS instilled in him core values such as doing everything with a purpose, whether studying or exercising, to contribute to the nation. Shri Modi remarked that the RSS provides a clear direction toward a purpose in life, emphasizing that serving people is akin to serving God. He noted that the RSS is nearing its 100th anniversary and is a massive volunteer organization with millions of members worldwide. Highlighting various initiatives inspired by the RSS, such as Seva Bharati, which runs over 1,25,000 service projects in slums and settlements without government assistance, Shri Modi also mentioned Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram, which has established over 70,000 one-teacher schools in tribal regions, and Vidya Bharati, which operates nearly 25,000 schools educating around 30 lakh students. He emphasized that the RSS prioritizes education and values, ensuring students remain grounded and learn skills to avoid becoming a burden on society. He highlighted the Indian Labor Union, which has millions of members across the country, adopting a unique approach by focusing on “workers unite the world,” contrasting with traditional labor movements. The Prime Minister expressed gratitude for the life values and purpose he gained from the RSS and the spiritual guidance he received from saints like Swami Atmasthananda.
On the topic of India, Shri Modi said that India is a cultural identity and a civilization that dates back thousands of years. Highlighting the vastness of India, with over 100 languages and thousands of dialects, emphasizing the saying that every 20 miles, the language, customs, cuisine, and clothing styles change, he said that despite this immense diversity, there is a common thread that unites the country. The Prime Minister highlighted the stories of Lord Ram, which resonate across India, and pointed out how names inspired by Lord Ram are found in every region, from Rambhai in Gujarat to Ramachandran in Tamil Nadu and Ram Bhau in Maharashtra. He remarked that this unique cultural bond unites India as one civilization. Shri Modi emphasized the ritual of remembering all the rivers of India during bathing, where people chant the names of rivers like Ganga, Yamuna, Godavari, Saraswati, Narmada, Sindhu, and Kaveri. He noted that this sentiment of unity is deeply ingrained in Indian traditions and is reflected in the resolutions made during important events and rituals, which also serve as historical records. Underlining the meticulous guidance of Indian scriptures in practices such as invoking the universe during ceremonies, starting from Jambudweep and narrowing down to the family deity, the Prime Minister remarked that these practices are still alive and observed daily across India. He observed that while Western and global models view nations as administrative systems, India’s unity lies in its cultural bonds. He noted that India has had varied administrative systems throughout history, but its unity has been preserved through cultural traditions. Shri Modi also underscored the role of pilgrimage traditions in maintaining India’s unity, mentioning Shankaracharya’s establishment of four pilgrimage sites. He remarked that even today, millions of people travel for pilgrimage, such as bringing water from Rameshwaram to Kashi and vice versa. He also pointed out the richness of India’s Hindu calendar, which reflects the country’s diverse traditions.
Discussing Mahatma Gandhi’s Legacy and India’s Struggle for Independence, the Prime Minister reiterated that he was born in Gujarat, with Gujarati as his mother tongue, just like Mahatma Gandhi. He highlighted that Gandhi, despite having opportunities abroad as an attorney, chose to devote his life to serving the people of India, guided by a deep sense of duty and family values. He emphasized that Gandhi’s principles and actions continue to influence every Indian to this day. Underlining Gandhi’s advocacy for cleanliness, noting that he practiced it himself and made it a central topic in his discussions, Shri Modi remarked on India’s long struggle for independence, during which the flame of freedom burned brightly across the nation despite centuries of colonial rule. Millions sacrificed their lives, enduring imprisonment and martyrdom, to ensure India’s freedom, he added. Shri Modi observed that while many freedom fighters made lasting impacts, it was Mahatma Gandhi who awakened the nation by leading a mass movement rooted in truth. He highlighted Gandhi’s ability to involve every individual in the freedom struggle, from sweepers to teachers, spinners, and caregivers. He remarked that Gandhi transformed ordinary citizens into soldiers for freedom, creating a movement so immense that the British could not fully comprehend it. He noted the significance of the Dandi March, where a pinch of salt sparked a revolution. The Prime Minister shared an anecdote from a Roundtable Conference, where Gandhi, dressed in his breechcloth, met King George at Buckingham Palace. He highlighted Gandhi’s witty remark, “Your king is wearing enough clothes for the both of us,” showcasing his whimsical charm. Shri Modi reflected on Gandhi’s call for unity and recognition of people’s strength, which continues to resonate. He emphasized his own commitment to including the common man in every initiative and fostering social change, rather than relying solely on the government.
Shri Modi further mentioned that Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy transcends centuries, emphasizing that his relevance endures to this day. He highlighted his own sense of responsibility, stating that his strength lies not in his name but in the backing of 140 crore Indians and thousands of years of timeless culture and heritage. “When I shake hands with a world leader, it’s not Modi, but 140 crore Indians doing so”, he added humbly. Recalling the widespread criticism he faced in 2013 when he was declared his party’s prime ministerial candidate, Shri Modi said that critics questioned his understanding of foreign policy and global geopolitics. He responded at the time, “India will neither allow itself to be looked down upon, nor will it ever look up to anyone. India will now see eye-to-eye with her counterparts.” He reaffirmed that this belief remains central to his foreign policy, emphasizing that the country always comes first. Prime Minister highlighted India’s long-standing advocacy for global peace and brotherhood, rooted in the vision of the world as one family. He remarked on India’s contributions to global initiatives, such as the concept of “One Sun, One World, One Grid” for renewable energy and “One Earth, One Health” for global healthcare, which extends to all flora and fauna. He emphasized the importance of fostering global well-being and called for collective efforts from the international community. Touching upon India’s hosting of the G20 Summit with the motto, “One Earth, One Family, One Future,” Shri Modi underscored the duty to share India’s timeless wisdom with the world. He remarked on the interconnected nature of today’s world, stating, “No country can thrive in isolation. We all depend upon one another.” He emphasized the need for synchronization and collaboration to propel global initiatives forward. He also addressed the relevance of global organizations like the United Nations, noting that their inability to evolve with the times has sparked a global debate on their effectiveness.
On the topic of the path to peace in Ukraine, Shri Modi said that he represents the land of Lord Buddha and Mahatma Gandhi, great souls whose teachings and actions were entirely dedicated to peace. He emphasized that India’s strong cultural and historical background ensures that when India speaks of peace, the world listens. He highlighted that Indians are not hardwired for conflict but instead espouse harmony, standing for peace and embracing the responsibility of peacemaking wherever possible. The Prime Minister reflected on his close relationships with both Russia and Ukraine, stating that he can engage with President Putin to emphasize that this is not the time for war and can also convey to President Zelensky that resolutions will not be achieved on the battlefield but through negotiations. He added that discussions must include both parties to be fruitful and noted that the current situation presents an opportunity for meaningful talks between Ukraine and Russia. Highlighting the suffering caused by the conflict, including its impact on the global south, which has faced crises in food, fuel, and fertilizer, the Prime Minister called for the global community to unite in the pursuit of peace. He reaffirmed his stance, stating, “I am not neutral. I have a stance, and that is peace, and peace is what I strive for.”
Discussing the topic of India and Pakistan relations, the Prime Minister touched upon the painful reality of India’s partition in 1947, highlighting the grief and bloodshed that followed. He described the harrowing sight of trains arriving from Pakistan filled with wounded people and corpses. He noted that despite expectations of harmonious coexistence, Pakistan chose a path of hostility, waging a proxy war against India. The Prime Minister questioned the ideology that thrives on bloodshed and terror, emphasizing that terrorism is a menace not just for India but for the world. He pointed out that the trail of terror often leads to Pakistan, citing the example of Osama bin Laden, who was found taking refuge there. He remarked that Pakistan has become an epicenter of turmoil and urged them to abandon state-sponsored terrorism. “What do you hope to gain by surrendering your nation to lawless forces?”, he questioned. Shri Modi shared his personal efforts to foster peace, including his visit to Lahore and the invitation extended to Pakistan for his swearing-in ceremony as Prime Minister. He highlighted this diplomatic gesture as a testament to India’s commitment to peace and harmony, as captured in the memoir of former President Shri Pranab Mukherjee. However, he noted that these efforts were met with hostility and betrayal.
Stressing on the unifying power of sports, Shri Modi said that they connect people on a deeper level and energize the world. He stated, “Sports play a major role in human evolution. They’re not just games; they bring people together across nations.” He noted that while he is not an expert in sports techniques, results often speak for themselves, as seen in a recent cricket match between India and Pakistan. The Prime Minister also highlighted India’s strong football culture, noting the impressive performance of the women’s football team and the progress of the men’s team. Reflecting on the past, he remarked that for the 1980s generation, Maradona was a true hero, while today’s generation immediately mentions Messi. Shri Modi shared a memorable visit to Shahdol, a tribal district in Madhya Pradesh, where he encountered a community deeply dedicated to football. He recounted meeting young players who proudly referred to their village as “mini Brazil,” a name earned through four generations of football tradition and nearly 80 national-level players. He noted that their annual football matches attract 20,000 to 25,000 spectators from nearby villages. He expressed optimism about the growing passion for football in India, stating that it not only fuels enthusiasm but also builds true team spirit.
On being asked about the President of the USA, H.E. Mr. Donald Trump, the Prime Minister reminisced about a memorable event, the “Howdy Modi” rally in Houston, where he and President Trump addressed a packed stadium. He remarked on President Trump’s humility, noting how he sat in the audience during Modi’s speech and later agreed to walk around the stadium with him, showcasing mutual trust and a strong bond. He highlighted President Trump’s courage and decision-making, recalling his resilience even after being shot during a campaign. Shri Modi reflected on his first visit to the White House, where President Trump broke formal protocols to personally give him a tour. He mentioned Trump’s deep respect for American history, as he shared details about past Presidents and significant moments without notes or assistance. He emphasized the strong trust and communication between them, which remained unshaken even during Trump’s absence from office. Remarking on President Trump’s graciousness in calling him a great negotiator, attributing it to Trump’s humility, the Prime Minister stated that his negotiation approach always prioritizes India’s interests, advocating positively without causing offense. He emphasized that his nation is his high command, and he honors the responsibility entrusted to him by the people of India. Highlighting his productive meetings with individuals like Elon Musk, Tulsi Gabbard, Vivek Ramaswamy, and JD Vance during his recent visit to the United States, Shri Modi spoke of the warm, family-like atmosphere and shared his long-standing acquaintance with Elon Musk. He expressed happiness over Musk’s excitement about the DOGE mission and drew parallels to his own efforts to eliminate inefficiencies and harmful practices in governance since taking office in 2014. Prime Minister shared examples of governance reforms, including the removal of 10 crore fake or duplicate names from welfare schemes, saving massive amounts of money. He introduced direct benefit transfers to ensure transparency and eliminate middlemen, saving nearly three lakh crore rupees. He also launched the GeM portal for government purchases, reducing costs and improving quality. Additionally, he eliminated 40,000 unnecessary compliances and removed 1,500 outdated laws to streamline governance. He added that these bold changes have made India a topic of global discussion, just as innovative missions like DOGE capture worldwide attention.
On being asked about the bilateral relations with India and China, the Prime Minister emphasised their shared history of learning from each other and contributing to global good, highlighting that at one point, India and China together accounted for over 50% of the world’s GDP, showcasing their massive contributions. He noted the deep cultural connections, including the profound influence of Buddhism in China, which originated in India. Shri Modi stressed the importance of maintaining and strengthening the relationship between the two nations. He acknowledged that differences are natural between neighbors but stressed the need to prevent these differences from escalating into disputes. “Dialogue is the key to building a stable and cooperative relationship that benefits both nations”, he added. Addressing the ongoing border disputes, Prime Minister acknowledged the tensions that arose in 2020 but noted that his recent meeting with President Xi has led to a return to normalcy at the border. He highlighted efforts to restore conditions to pre-2020 levels and expressed optimism that trust, enthusiasm, and energy would gradually return. He emphasized that cooperation between India and China is essential for global stability and prosperity, advocating for healthy competition rather than conflict.
On global tensions, the Prime Minister reflected on the lessons from COVID-19, which exposed the limitations of every nation and underscored the need for unity. He remarked that instead of moving toward peace, the world has become more fragmented, leading to uncertainty and worsening conflicts. He highlighted the irrelevance of international organizations like the UN due to a lack of reforms and the disregard for international laws. Shri Modi called for a shift from conflict to cooperation, advocating for a development-driven approach as the way forward. He reiterated that expansionism will not work in an interconnected and interdependent world, emphasizing the need for nations to support one another. He expressed hope for the restoration of peace, noting the deep concern shared by global forums over ongoing conflicts.
On the topic of 2002 Gujarat riots, Shri Modi provided a detailed account of the volatile atmosphere leading up to it, highlighting a series of global and national crises, including the Kandahar hijacking, the Red Fort attack, and the 9/11 terror attacks. He remarked on the tense environment and the challenges he faced as a newly appointed Chief Minister, including overseeing rehabilitation after a devastating earthquake and managing the aftermath of the tragic Godhra incident. The Prime Minister addressed misconceptions about the 2002 riots, noting that Gujarat had a long history of communal violence before his tenure. He emphasized that the judiciary thoroughly investigated the matter and found him completely innocent. He highlighted that Gujarat has remained peaceful for 22 years since 2002, attributing this to a governance approach focused on development for all and trust from all. Talking about criticism, Shri Modi stated, “Criticism is the soul of democracy”, emphasising the importance of genuine, well-informed criticism, which he believes leads to better policy making. However, he expressed concern over the prevalence of baseless allegations, which he distinguished from constructive criticism. He remarked, “Allegations benefit no one; they just cause unnecessary conflicts.” The Prime Minister shared his perspective on journalism, advocating for a balanced approach. He recounted an analogy he once shared, comparing journalism to a bee that collects nectar and spreads sweetness but can also sting powerfully when necessary. He expressed disappointment over selective interpretations of his analogy, emphasizing the need for journalism to focus on truth and constructive impact rather than sensationalism.
Discussing his extensive experience in politics, highlighting his early focus on organizational work, managing elections, and strategizing campaigns, Shri Modi stated that for 24 years, the people of Gujarat and India have placed their trust in him, and he remains committed to honoring this sacred duty with unwavering dedication. He emphasized his government’s commitment to ensuring welfare schemes reach every citizen without discrimination based on caste, creed, faith, wealth, or ideology. He remarked that fostering trust is the cornerstone of his governance model, ensuring that even those not directly benefiting from schemes feel included and assured of future opportunities. “Our governance is rooted in the people, not the polls, and is dedicated to the well-being of citizens and the nation”, said the Prime Minister, sharing his perspective of revering the nation and its people as manifestations of the Divine, likening his role to that of a devoted priest serving the people. He emphasized his lack of conflicts of interest, noting that he has no friends or relatives who stand to gain from his position, which resonates with the common man and builds trust. The Prime Minister expressed pride in belonging to the world’s largest political party, which he credited to the tireless efforts of millions of dedicated volunteers. He remarked that these volunteers, devoted to the welfare of India and its citizens, have no personal stakes in politics and are widely recognized for their selfless service. He highlighted that this trust in his party is reflected in election results, which he attributes to the blessings of the people.
Further talking about the incredible logistics of conducting elections in India, citing the 2024 general elections as an example, Shri Modi highlighted that there were 98 crore registered voters, surpassing the population of North America and the European Union combined. Out of these, 64.6 crore voters braved intense heat to cast their votes, he added. He noted that India had over one million polling booths and more than 2,500 registered political parties, showcasing the scale of its democracy. He emphasized that even the remotest villages had polling stations, with helicopters used to transport voting machines to inaccessible areas. He shared anecdotes, such as a polling booth set up in Gujarat’s Gir Forest for a single voter, underscoring India’s commitment to democracy. The Prime Minister praised the Election Commission of India for setting a global benchmark in conducting free and fair elections. He remarked that the management of Indian elections should be studied as a case study by top universities worldwide, given the immense depth of political awareness and logistical excellence involved.
Reflecting on his leadership, Shri Modi stated that he identifies himself as a “prime servant” rather than a Prime Minister, with service as the guiding principle of his work ethic. He emphasized that his focus is on productivity and bringing positive change to people’s lives, rather than seeking power. He remarked, “I entered politics not to play power games, but to serve.”
Addressing the notion of loneliness, the Prime Minister shared that he never experiences it, as he believes in the philosophy of “one plus one,” representing himself and the Almighty. He remarked that serving the nation and its people is akin to serving the divine. During the pandemic, he stayed engaged by designing a governance model through videoconferencing and personally connecting with party volunteers aged 70 and above, inquiring about their well-being and reliving old memories, he added.
On being asked the secret about hard work, Shri Modi remarked that his motivation comes from observing the hard work of people around him, including farmers, soldiers, laborers, and mothers who tirelessly dedicate themselves to their families and communities. He stated, “How can I sleep? How can I relax? The motivation is right in front of my eyes.” He emphasized that the responsibilities entrusted to him by his fellow citizens push him to give his absolute best. He recalled the promises he made during his 2014 campaign: to never fall behind in hard work for the country, to never act with bad intentions, and to never do anything for personal gain. He affirmed that he has upheld these standards throughout his 24 years as head of government. Prime Minister highlighted that his inspiration comes from serving 140 crore people, understanding their aspirations, and addressing their needs. He remarked, “I am always determined to do as much as I can, work as hard as possible. Even today, my energy remains just as strong.”
Expressing his deep respect for Srinivasa Ramanujan, widely regarded as one of the greatest mathematicians of all time, Shri Modi remarked that Ramanujan’s life and work exemplify the profound connection between science and spirituality. He highlighted Ramanujan’s belief that his mathematical ideas were inspired by the goddess he worshiped, emphasizing that such ideas emerge from spiritual discipline. He stated, “Discipline is more than just hard work; it means fully devoting yourself to a task and completely immersing yourself into it so much that you become one with your work.” The Prime Minister underscored the importance of being open to diverse sources of knowledge, noting that this openness fosters the emergence of new ideas. He emphasized the distinction between information and knowledge, stating, “Some people mistakenly confuse information with knowledge. Knowledge is something deeper; it gradually evolves through processing, reflection, and understanding.” He highlighted the need to recognize this difference in order to handle both effectively.
Discussing the factors influencing his decision-making, Shri Modi highlighted his extensive travel across 85-90% of India’s districts before his current role. He emphasized that these experiences provided him with firsthand knowledge of grassroots realities. He stated, “I carry no baggage that weighs me down or forces me to act a certain way.” He shared that his guiding principle is “My country first,” and he draws inspiration from Mahatma Gandhi’s wisdom of considering the poorest person’s face when making decisions. The Prime Minister highlighted his well-connected administration, noting that his numerous and active information channels provide him with diverse perspectives. He remarked, “When someone comes to brief me, that’s not my only source of information.” He also emphasized maintaining a learner’s mindset, asking questions like a student and playing devil’s advocate to analyze issues from multiple angles. Shri Modi shared his decision-making process during the COVID-19 crisis, where he resisted pressure to follow global economic theories blindly. He stated, “I wouldn’t let the poor sleep hungry. I wouldn’t allow social tensions to arise over basic daily needs.” He emphasized that his approach, rooted in patience and discipline, helped India avoid severe inflation and emerge as one of the fastest-growing major economies in the world. The Prime Minister highlighted his risk-taking capacity, stating, “If something is right for my country, for the people, I’m always prepared to take the risk.” He emphasized taking ownership of his decisions, remarking, “If something goes wrong, I don’t shift blame to others. I stand up, take responsibility, and own the outcome.” He noted that this approach fosters deep commitment within his team and builds trust among citizens. “I can make mistakes, but I won’t act with bad intentions”, he added, emphasising that society accepts him for his honest intentions, even if outcomes do not always go as planned.
“Artificial Intelligence (AI) development is fundamentally a collaborative effort, no nation can develop AI entirely on its own”, emphasised Shri Modi when asked about the role of India in promoting AI. He stated, “No matter what the world does with AI, it will remain incomplete without India.” He highlighted India’s active work on AI-driven applications for specific use cases and its unique marketplace-based model to ensure broad accessibility. He noted that India’s vast talent pool is its greatest strength, remarking, “Artificial intelligence is fundamentally powered, shaped, and guided by human intelligence, and that real intelligence exists abundantly in India’s youth.” The Prime Minister shared an example of India’s rapid progress in 5G rollout, which surpassed global expectations. He highlighted the cost-effectiveness of India’s space missions, such as Chandrayaan, which cost less than a Hollywood blockbuster, showcasing India’s efficiency and innovation. He emphasized that these achievements generate global respect for Indian talent and reflect India’s civilizational ethos. Shri Modi also reflected on the success of Indian-origin leaders in global tech, attributing it to India’s cultural values of dedication, ethics, and collaboration. He remarked, “People raised in India, especially those from joint families and open societies, find it easier to lead complex tasks and large teams effectively.” He highlighted the problem-solving abilities and analytical thinking of Indian professionals, which make them globally competitive. Addressing concerns about AI replacing humans, the Prime Minister remarked that technology has always advanced alongside humanity, with humans adapting and staying a step ahead. He stated, “Human imagination is the fuel. AI can create many things based on that, but no technology can ever replace the boundless creativity and imagination of the human mind.” He emphasized that AI challenges humans to reflect on what it truly means to be human, highlighting the innate human ability to care for one another, which AI cannot replicate.
Touching upon the topic of Education, Exams, and Student Success, Shri Modi said that the societal mindset places undue pressure on students, with schools and families often measuring success by rankings. He emphasized that this mentality has led children to believe their entire lives depend on 10th and 12th-grade exams. He highlighted the significant changes introduced in India’s new education policy to address these issues and shared his commitment to easing students’ burdens through initiatives like Pariksha Pe Charcha. The Prime Minister emphasized that exams should not be the sole measure of a person’s potential, stating, “Many people may not score high academically, yet can hit a century in cricket because that’s where their true strength lies.” He shared anecdotes from his school days, highlighting innovative teaching methods that made learning enjoyable and effective. He noted that such techniques have been incorporated into the new education policy. Shri Modi advised students to perform every task with dedication and sincerity, emphasizing that enhanced skills and capabilities open doors to success. He encouraged young people not to feel discouraged, stating, “There’s certainly some task out there destined just for you. Focus on enhancing your skills, and opportunities will come.” He highlighted the importance of connecting one’s life to a greater purpose, which brings inspiration and meaning. Addressing stress and difficulties, the Prime Minister urged parents to stop using their children as status symbols and to understand that life is not just about exams. He advised students to prepare well, trust their abilities, and approach exams with confidence. He emphasized the importance of systematic time management and regular practice to overcome challenges during exams. He reaffirmed his belief in every individual’s unique capabilities, encouraging students to maintain trust in themselves and their abilities to succeed.
Prime Minister also shared his approach to learning, emphasizing the importance of being fully present in the moment. He remarked, “Whenever I meet someone, I am fully present in the moment. This complete focus allows me to grasp new concepts quickly.” He encouraged others to embrace this habit, stating that it sharpens the mind and improves learning ability. He highlighted the value of practice, remarking, “You cannot master driving merely by reading the life stories of great drivers. You must get behind the wheel and take the road yourself.” Shri Modi reflected on the certainty of death, emphasizing the importance of embracing life, enriching it with purpose, and letting go of the fear of death, as it is inevitable. He remarked, “Commit to enriching, refining, and elevating your life so you can live fully and with a purpose before death comes knocking.”
Prime Minister expressed his optimism about the future, stating that pessimism and negativity are not part of his mindset. He highlighted humanity’s resilience in overcoming crises and embracing change throughout history. He remarked, “In every era, it is in human nature to adapt to the ever-flowing current of change.” He emphasized the potential for extraordinary breakthroughs when people break free from outdated thinking patterns and embrace transformation.
Speaking on the topics of Spirituality, Meditation, and Universal Well-Being, Shri Modi highlighted the significance of the Gayatri Mantra, describing it as a powerful tool for spiritual enlightenment dedicated to the radiant power of the sun. He remarked that many Hindu mantras are deeply intertwined with science and nature, bringing profound and lasting benefits when chanted daily. The Prime Minister emphasised that meditation was about freeing oneself from distractions and being present in the moment. He recounted an experience from his time in the Himalayas, where a sage taught him to focus on the rhythmic sound of water droplets falling onto a bowl. He described this practice as “divine resonance,” which helped him develop concentration and evolve into meditation. Reflecting on Hindu philosophy, Shri Modi quoted mantras emphasizing the interconnectedness of life and the importance of universal well-being. He remarked, “Hindus never focus solely on individual well-being. We wish for the well-being and prosperity of all.” He highlighted that every Hindu mantra concludes with the invocation of peace, symbolizing the essence of life and the spiritual practices of sages. The Prime Minister concluded by expressing gratitude for the opportunity to share his thoughts, noting that the conversation allowed him to explore and articulate ideas he had long kept within himself.
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