In a nearly three-hour conversation with AI researcher and podcaster Lex Fridman, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reflected on his leadership philosophy, personal discipline, and the values that have shaped his political journey. This marked Modi’s second podcast appearance this year, following his discussion with Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath in January.
Modi reinforced himself as a representative of India’s collective identity. “My strength is not in my name, but in the support of 1.4 billion Indians and thousands of years of eternal culture and heritage. When I shake hands with a world leader, it’s not Modi, but 1.4 billion Indians shaking hands,” he said.
He also mentioned India’s dedication to world peace, referring to names such as Gautama Buddha and Mahatma Gandhi. “India is the land of Buddha and Gandhi. We do not look for conflict; we believe in harmony. Wherever we can play the role of peacemakers, we undertake that responsibility,” he said.
Modi on RSS and Hindu Nationalism
PM Modi explored his early affiliation with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and its impact on his life. He spoke of his steadfast spiritual dedication, saying, “From the outside, people may address me as a leader, some address me as the Prime Minister, others address me as the Chief Minister. But within, there is only an unstinting spiritual commitment.”
Remembering his early life, Modi recounted how he used to be attracted to patriotic songs sung by an individual named MaKoshi, who played the tambourine while singing in villages. “Whenever he visited our village, he would organize programs in various locations. I would chase him like a mad fan just to hear his songs. I would listen to their patriotic songs the whole night through. I loved it—I don’t even know why, but I just did,” he remembered.
His involvement with the RSS started through a local unit where he was involved in sports and patriotic activities. “Something about those songs touched me deeply; they stirred something inside me. That’s how I eventually became part of the RSS,” Modi remembered.
He explained the values imparted by the RSS, such as education as a way to give back to the country. “One of the fundamental values that were imparted to us at RSS was—even while studying, study with the intention of learning enough to give back to the country. The reason for building your body was to serve the country. This is what we were taught,” he explained.
RSS’s Contribution to Society
PM Modi referred to the vast reach of the RSS, which is almost 100 years old and has millions of members from around the globe. He added that it takes effort to understand RSS because it is inclined a lot towards national service.
“The RSS gives you a clear path—a direction in life. Secondly, the nation comes first, and to serve the people is to serve God. This has been instilled in us,” he said.
Modi also addressed the organization’s efforts in tribal education and welfare. “Some RSS nurtured volunteers are committed to the service of tribal communities by working through Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram. They stay among the tribal people, working for their development. They have set up more than 70,000 one-teacher schools in remote tribal areas,” he said.
The RSS has also contributed significantly to education through Vidya Bharti, an initiative aimed at revolutionizing learning. “Today, they run nearly 25,000 schools educating around 3 million students. Millions of students have benefited from this initiative, receiving quality education at an incredibly low cost,” Modi noted.
The Influence of RSS on Modi’s Life
PM Modi attributed the RSS with moulding his disciplined life and instilling in him a sense of direction. “In the last 100 years, the RSS has worked with the discipline and dedication of a seeker. Remaining away from the limelight, it has taught life values to its volunteers,” he stated.
Looking back at his spiritual roots, Modi credited the saints and philosophers. “Through the RSS, I discovered a life of meaning. I was blessed to have spent time among saints, which provided me with a solid spiritual foundation. Ramakrishna Mission and Swami Vivekananda’s teachings were instrumental in shaping me,” he stated.
As the discussion came to a close, Modi reaffirmed that his leadership is based on serving the country and upholding the values inculcated in him from an early age.