Prime Minister Narendra Modi made his podcast debut on People by WTF, hosted by Nikhil Kamath, co-founder of Zerodha. This two-hour-long podcast provided a platform for PM Modi to discuss his journey, leadership philosophies, India’s aspirations, and global relations. His candid and heartfelt reflections offered listeners a rare glimpse into the thoughts and experiences of one of the world’s most prominent leaders.
The significance of speaking publicly for the first time
PM Modi acknowledged the novelty of the podcast medium for him, admitting, "This is my first podcast. This world is completely new to me." His willingness to embrace an unfamiliar platform underscores his commitment to engaging with people through diverse channels. Modi’s participation in this podcast not only reflects his adaptability but also signals the importance of connecting with citizens and global audiences in innovative ways.
Humble beginnings and leadership philosophy
Reflecting on his journey, PM Modi shared heartfelt stories from his childhood, including washing clothes for his family, which allowed him to visit the village pond. He also spoke about being an ordinary student with unremarkable academic achievements but credited his teacher’s encouragement as pivotal in shaping his confidence.
As a leader, Modi emphasised the importance of humanity in governance, recalling a speech during his tenure as Gujarat’s chief minister: “I am a human, not God. I may make mistakes, but they won’t be intentional.” His approach to leadership rests on dedication, humility, and a mission-driven mindset, with the mantra: “Nation first.”
India’s aspirational future
PM Modi articulated his vision for a developed India by 2047, driven by "Aspirational India." He stressed the need for 100% delivery of government schemes, which he equated to true social justice and secularism. By focusing on inclusivity and accountability, Modi showcased his belief in empowering every citizen as a cornerstone for national growth.
Historical and cultural ties
One of the standout anecdotes was Modi’s conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping, where Xi expressed a desire to visit Modi’s hometown of Vadnagar. This connection was rooted in historical ties, as the Chinese philosopher Hiuen Tsang had spent significant time in Vadnagar. Modi highlighted such shared histories as bridges for fostering global relationships.
Social media and youth engagement
The Prime Minister highlighted the transformative power of social media in modern democracy. According to him, platforms like these amplify citizen voices, engage youth, and celebrate national achievements, such as Chandrayaan and Gaganyaan. Modi believes that leveraging digital tools strengthens the connection between governance and the aspirations of the younger generation.
Global peace and credibility
On international relations, Modi reiterated India’s consistent advocacy for peace amid global conflicts. “The world trusts us because there is no duplicity in us,” he said, emphasising India’s transparency in global affairs. His diplomatic approach, which appeals to countries like Russia, Ukraine, Iran, Palestine, and Israel, underscores India’s credibility as a neutral and peace-oriented nation.
