Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a rare foreign media appearance as a guest on the ‘Lex Fridman Podcast’, engaging in a three-hour conversation with the technologist and former Elon Musk sparring partner.
During the discussion, Modi referenced a trending statement on journalism, recalling his visit to London for an event organised by a “Gujarati newspaper”. He reflected on how his remarks about media criticism—particularly his well-known bee and fly analogy—were later misinterpreted, sparking controversy.
The newspaper he referred to was in fact our sister publication ‘Gujarat Samachar’, with its head office then at ‘Karma Yoga House’ near London’s Old Street. Modi visited the office on August 20, 2003, to inaugurate the publications’ new reception hall viz. ‘Shakti Hall’ along with a chit-chat with his friend (‘mitra’) and the publications’ Publisher/Editor C B Patel. A reception to mark the inauguration was attended by people from the community.
The podcast also covered a wide range of topics, including Modi’s stance on the Russia-Ukraine war, his relationship with Trump, India-China ties, his spiritual journey in the Himalayas, the influence of the RSS, Hindu nationalism, and even his views on cricket, football, and more.
Fridman described the discussion as “one of the most powerful conversations” he has ever hosted and revealed that he fasted for 45 hours in preparation to “talk spiritually” with Modi.
The interview has drawn significant attention in India, where Modi is known for his tightly controlled media interactions. Despite leading the country for over a decade, he has largely avoided press conferences, only recently addressing his first three while visiting abroad.
I am not neutral, I stand for peace, says PM Modi
When asked about his “geopolitical leverage” amid global conflicts, particularly the Russia-Ukraine war, PM Modi described India as the land of Buddha and Mahatma Gandhi. He emphasised his close ties with both nations, asserting that no conflict can be resolved on the battlefield without direct negotiations.
"I have a close relationship with Russia and Ukraine alike," he said. "I can tell President Putin this is not the time for war, and I can also tell President Zelensky that global support alone won’t bring a resolution."
Addressing criticism of India’s stance, Modi insisted, “I am not neutral. My stance is peace, and peace is what I strive for.”
Pakistan the epicentre of terror
In a sharp critique of Pakistan, PM Modi stated that “terrorism and the terrorist mindset are deeply rooted” in the country, adding that the world has recognized this reality.
When asked about the possibility of peace, he accused Pakistan of waging a proxy war against India, dismissing it as ideology. “What kind of ideology thrives on bloodshed and terror?” he asked, noting that India is not the only victim.
“Wherever terror strikes, the trail often leads to Pakistan—take 9/11, for example. Osama bin Laden was ultimately found there,” Modi said, calling Pakistan an “epicentre of turmoil.”
He highlighted his past peace efforts, including visits to Lahore in 2015 and inviting Pakistan to his 2014 swearing-in, but lamented that “every noble attempt was met with hostility and betrayal.”
Trump’s ‘America First’ mirrors Modi’s ‘Nation First’
When asked about his recent US visit and views on Donald Trump, PM Modi spoke of their "mutual trust" and "strong bond," highlighting their shared nationalist vision.
"His 'America First' approach aligns with my belief in 'Nation First,'" Modi told Fridman, adding that Trump is "far more prepared" for a second term, with a clear roadmap to achieve his goals.
Praising Trump’s "graciousness and humility," Modi underscored their strong relationship.
Despite upcoming US tariffs impacting Indian exports, both leaders recently agreed to resolve trade disputes, setting an ambitious goal of reaching $500 billion in bilateral trade by 2030.
Trump, in turn, acknowledged the interview by sharing its link on his Truth Social account, further amplifying its global reach.
India-China ties need time
When asked about India’s territorial disputes with China, PM Modi downplayed recent tensions, emphasising historical ties and mutual learning.
"There’s no real history of conflict between us. Like a family, differences exist, but our effort is to prevent disputes," he said.
Despite a deadly 2020 border clash in Ladakh, both nations have since taken steps to ease tensions, including a military pact last year.
"Trust and stability will return, but it will take time," Modi said, stressing the importance of managing differences peacefully.
China welcomed PM Narendra Modi’s recent remarks on India-China ties in Lex Fridman Podcast, emphasising dialogue over discord. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning praised his "positive statement," describing the relationship as a "cooperative dance between the elephant and the dragon," where mutual success is the only path forward.
Gujarat riots, perseverance, and lifelong learning
PM Modi also addressed the 2002 Gujarat riots, calling them a “tragedy of unimaginable magnitude” while dismissing allegations about his role as a “fake narrative.” He noted Gujarat’s long history of sectarian violence, citing over 250 riots before 2002, including a six-month-long one in 1969.
On perseverance and lifelong learning, Modi reflected on his journey from selling tea to leading India, advising young people to embrace challenges as opportunities. "No matter how dark the night, morning is bound to come," he said, urging patience, self-confidence, and faith. He warned against shortcuts, recalling a railway station sign: “Shortcut will cut you short.” Instead, he encouraged a mindset of perseverance and continuous learning.
Modi shared how his early interactions at his father’s tea stall taught him valuable lessons, stressing that young people should focus on ‘doing’ rather than just ‘becoming’. “Abundance alone is not enough—success comes from effort, purpose, and growth,” he said.
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Constructive criticism builds, baseless allegations harm
A special mention of ‘Gujarat Samachar’
During the podcast interview, Narendra Modi reflected on media criticism, stating, "Criticism is the soul of democracy." He stressed the importance of well-informed, constructive criticism, which he believes strengthens policymaking. However, he voiced concern over baseless allegations, distinguishing them from meaningful critique. "Allegations benefit no one; they only create unnecessary conflicts," he remarked.
Modi explained that thoughtful criticism helps refine policies and provides a clear policy vision. While he remains unfazed by catchy headlines or playful word choices, he warned against deliberate misinformation. "If someone twists facts to serve an agenda, it becomes a serious issue that can cause long-term damage," he said.
Recalling his visit to London on August 20, 2003, to inaugurate Shakti Hall – a reception hall at Karma Yoga House, the then office of Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar, Modi shared an analogy he had used at the event. Speaking to journalists, he posed a question: "Should journalism be like a fly or a bee?" He explained that while a fly settles on filth and spreads it, a bee gathers nectar and shares sweetness. Yet, if something is truly wrong, a bee can sting with such force that one might have to "hide their face for days."
PM Modi noted that his analogy was later misrepresented. "Some people selectively took half of my statement and created a controversy. Was I being negative about anyone? Not at all. I was simply highlighting the power of journalism—like a bee, its sting can leave a lasting impact. But sadly, some prefer the fly approach instead."
