Hasna Zaroori Hai - Modi’s lighter side

In politics, humour is a powerful force—an artful tool that can disarm tension, foster connection, and illuminate truth. For Prime Minister Narendra Modi, humour is far more than embellishment; it’s a vibrant thread woven into his leadership style.

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Whether through poetic flourishes and clever wordplay in Parliament, spirited satire in Gujarat’s public gatherings, or sparkling repartee on the global stage, his wit brings warmth and relatability to political discourse. His lighter side is ever-present, suggesting a belief that truth, when shared with a smile, resonates more deeply. What delights, endures—and in Modi’s case, humour becomes a bridge to hearts and minds alike.

Gujarat years: Satire as sword and shield

When Modi became Chief Minister of Gujarat, his humour acquired a sharper edge. In crowded rallies, satire evolved into a powerful political tool. Congress leaders’ promises became caricatures, likened to Bollywood dialogues: “Congress ke neta aise vaade karte hain jaise Sholay ka Gabbar — ‘Arre O Sambha, kitne vote laaye?’”

At Garib Kalyan Melas, where welfare schemes were showcased, he lampooned his critics saying “Unko Gareeb Kalyaan Mela pasand nahi, shayad wo Gareeb Rulao Mela karna chahte hain.”

And when asked how he survived the barrage of attacks from rivals, his response was pure street wit: "Main roz 2-3 kilo gaali khata hoon, isliye mujhe kuch hota nahi.” The quip became so memorable that he repeated it years later as Prime Minister.