Narendra Modi at 75: Stories of Humanity, Vision, and Leadership

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares to celebrate his 75th birthday, tributes have poured in from across the political spectrum, particularly from senior BJP leaders and colleagues who have witnessed his leadership up close. These stories are not just personal recollections but windows into Modiji’s character—his empathy, discipline, and ability to transform small observations into large-scale change. Together, they offer a portrait of a leader whose influence is felt not only in policy but also in personal interactions.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses a gathering during the launch of various development projects, in Darrang on Sunday. (ANI) | Hindustan Times

Lessons in Listening and Leadership

BJP President JP Nadda recalled a moment early in his political journey when Modiji, then overseeing the party in Himachal Pradesh, advised him to rely less on reports and newspapers and more on direct conversations with people. Nadda admitted that at the time, as Leader of the Opposition, he was shaping assembly questions through written notes and press accounts. Modiji reminded him that true leadership begins with listening to the ground. That simple yet powerful lesson changed Nadda’s approach, allowing him to understand issues with authenticity and confidence.

Compassion Behind the Scenes

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman shared an anecdote from 2019, just before she presented her first Union Budget. While the country focused on policy announcements, Modiji’s primary concern was her health. He personally called her, arranged for his doctor to check on her well-being, and continued to follow up even after the Budget was over. For Sitharaman, it was a striking reminder that the Prime Minister did not merely see her as a minister delivering numbers but as a human being carrying immense responsibility. This concern, she noted, was not a one-time gesture but an ongoing pattern.

A Leader of Simplicity

Raman Singh, former Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, reflected on Modiji’s humility during his oath-taking ceremony in 2003. Despite holding a senior position, Modiji did not stand apart or seek the spotlight. Instead, he mingled with the crowd, even sitting on the floor alongside common workers and party members. For Singh, this moment symbolized Modiji’s ability to lead without pretension, projecting strength through simplicity.

Expanding Rights and Opportunities

Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, Virendra Kumar, emphasized Modiji’s transformative work for people with disabilities. Under his leadership, the number of recognized disability categories in Indian law expanded from seven to twenty-one. Reservations in education and employment rose from three to five percent, while the Accessible India Campaign provided greater infrastructure support. These reforms not only improved opportunities but also reshaped the national conversation on inclusivity and dignity.

Planting Ideas, Growing Movements

Sarbananda Sonowal, former Chief Minister of Assam, recounted a story that reflected Modiji’s ability to see the extraordinary in the ordinary. During a rally in 2016, Modiji spotted a flowering tree called Krishna Chura and asked about it. He encouraged Sonowal to promote its plantation across Assam. That suggestion evolved into a state-wide movement, resulting in nearly 95 million trees being planted. Over time, tree-planting became woven into the cultural fabric of Assam, celebrated on birthdays, festivals, and public occasions.

Beyond the Party: Other Memories of Modiji

Other BJP leaders have also shared anecdotes that highlight Modiji’s discipline and personal touch. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami recalled a late-night meeting in Varanasi where, instead of resting, Modiji insisted on inspecting development projects after midnight so as not to inconvenience citizens during the day. The next morning, he resumed work with his usual energy, demonstrating a balance of compassion and relentless discipline.

Similarly, anecdotes from leaders like Prakash Javadekar and Sudhanshu Trivedi illustrate Modiji’s innovative thinking in Gujarat—such as setting up one of India’s first state climate change departments and emphasizing renewable energy initiatives. Even smaller moments, like Modiji remembering colleagues’ birthdays or greeting everyone personally at a Diwali gathering, reveal his attention to detail and ability to make individuals feel valued.

The Man Behind the Leader

These personal stories reflect traits that have long defined Narendra Modi’s journey: humility rooted in his modest beginnings in Vadnagar, discipline forged through years of organizational work in the RSS, and vision sharpened during his tenure as Gujarat’s Chief Minister. His ability to combine empathy with innovation and leadership with accessibility makes him stand out not just as a political figure but as a leader whose presence resonates beyond policy.

The MGMM Outlook

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi turns 75, stories from BJP leaders highlight not just his political achievements but also his human side. JP Nadda recalls how Modiji taught him that true leadership comes from listening directly to the people, not relying only on reports. Nirmala Sitharaman shares how Modiji cared for her health during her first Union Budget, reminding her that leadership is also about compassion. Raman Singh remembers Modiji’s humility in 2003, when he sat on the floor with workers instead of seeking attention. Virendra Kumar points to Modiji’s reforms for the differently-abled, expanding rights and opportunities, while Sarbananda Sonowal describes how Modiji’s simple idea of promoting a flowering tree grew into a mass plantation movement across Assam. Each story reveals qualities of humility, empathy, and vision that define his leadership.

Beyond policies, Modiji’s leadership style shows discipline, simplicity, and attention to detail. Pushkar Singh Dhami recalls midnight inspections to avoid disturbing citizens, while leaders like Prakash Javadekar note his innovative governance in Gujarat, from climate change departments to renewable energy initiatives. Even small gestures, like remembering birthdays or greeting colleagues at festivals, showcase his ability to connect personally while driving national transformation. These memories together paint a picture of a leader who blends humanity with innovation, shaping a legacy that extends far beyond political office.

(Sources: Hindustan Times, PM India, Indiatimes)