In the world of politics, it’s not uncommon to witness leaders engage in grand gestures for the sake of optics and camera flashes. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who usually is about the big and grand gestures, somehow manages to stand out when it comes to displaying a unique ability to connect with the ‘real people of Bharat’. In the last 9 years, he has demystified the intricate relationship between the political leader and the common citizen. From the last person standing to the highest office holder, anyone who’s had the opportunity to interact with the Prime Minister feels that he creates an environment where as a citizen you know that your leader not only listens but genuinely cares about your work and values your dedication.
In stark contrast to the Vadra-Gandhi family, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s political approach comes out as a major differentiator. In the past, Gandhis faced criticism for their perceived inaccessibility, exemplified by anecdotes like Himanta Biswa Sarma’s ‘Pidi and dog biscuit’ story. So Rahul Gandhi’s efforts, such as the Bharat Jodo yatra, comes across as a meticulously designed PR strategy rather than a natural connection with the people. Even some of his supporters acknowledge this artifice. On the other hand, Prime Minister Modi’s deep-rooted connection with the Indian populace has evolved organically over many years. It emanates from his extensive groundwork and genuine rapport with marginalized segments of society.
This intrinsic quality, possibly is born from Prime Minister Modi’s own humble beginnings. Addressing the Lok Sabha during the Special Session of Parliament, he emotionally remembered the day he first entered the Parliament building as an MP.
He said ‘When I first entered this building as an MP, I bowed down and honoured the temple of democracy. It was an emotional moment for me. It was because of the strength of democracy in India and the commitment and admiration of the citizens that the son of a poor family who lived on the railway platform reached Parliament. I never imagined that the nation would give me so much respect, blessings, and love’. His words resonated with every hard working, honest Indian citizen – who aspires to contribute towards the growth of the nation.
In the same speech, Prime Minister Modi also acknowledged and praised the often unsung heroes of Indian democracy—the dedicated staff members of Parliament. These individuals work tirelessly behind the scenes during parliamentary sessions to ensure the smooth functioning of the institution.
‘Among us, there is also a group whose generations have changed. They run around the parliament to hand us our papers. We shouldn’t forget the contributions of staff members of parliament, who always ensured there is no error in the delivery of governance. Innumerable people give their best to ensure MPs serve the best. Their work has played a crucial role in bringing quality to the work of the Parliament, and I commend them wholeheartedly. Similarly, someone cleaned it, someone provided security, and so many countless people helped us work efficiently. I extend special congratulations to them on behalf of our Parliament’, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in his speech.
In doing so, PM Modi highlighted a quintessential hallmark of a good leader: the ability to make every member of the team feel valued and significant. He specially mentioned the role of those people who are entrusted with the job of handing papers to MPs – who would’ve thought that one day the Prime Minister of India would value and publicly acknowledge their labour and hard work. After all the work they do adds to the smooth delivery of a Parliamentarian’s governance.
In fact, when the New Parliament Building was in the process of taking shape – parliament staff, including caterers, were reportedly consulted for inputs. The Parliament, at present, has total staff strength of about 6,000 employees, including security personnel. Today, on their last working day in the Old Parliament Building, their work was acknowledged.
This isn’t the first time when Prime Minister Modi extended his heartfelt gratitude to the real heroes of Bharat—the ‘mango people’, the ones who more often than not go unnoticed.
From showering flower petals on sanitation workers during the inauguration of the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor to personally washing the feet of sanitary workers at the Kumbh Mela in Allahabad, PM Modi has consistently shown his appreciation for those who toil diligently for the nation
One of the most unique aspects of PM Modi’s leadership is his ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Whether it’s honouring the workers who constructed the new parliament building or hosting an exclusive dinner for Delhi Police personnel who ensured the security of the G20 summit, he maintains a relationship like no other
His supporters and party leaders believe that these gestures aren’t mere photo opportunities; they stem from a genuine desire to recognise and honor the contributions of these individuals.
For PM Modi, this connection is not just a political move; it’s a way of life rooted in his own journey. It comes to him naturally. He understands the struggles and aspirations of the common man because he has lived those struggles himself. This empathy and relatability resonates with the people, making them feel that their Prime Minister truly understands their concerns and appreciates their efforts.
‘In the 75 years the biggest achievement has been the continuously growing trust of the common citizen in their Parliament’, also said the Prime Minister in his speech
JAN KI BAAT Content Head Sagarika Mitra’s opinion piece
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