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In a three-hour interview with AI researcher and podcaster Lex Fridman, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed several key topics, including the 2002 Godhra riots, global terrorism, and India’s cultural and historical legacy.
PM Modi on the 2002 Gujarat Riots: Dismissing the "Fake Narrative"
During the interview, PM Modi dismissed what he called the “fake narrative” surrounding the 2002 Gujarat riots, emphasizing that Gujarat had witnessed over 250 major riots before 2002, including one in 1969, which lasted over six months.
He claimed that the then-central government wanted to put him behind bars, but the courts thoroughly examined the case and acquitted him. He highlighted that since 2002, Gujarat has not witnessed any major riots, which he attributed to his administration’s focus on governance rather than vote-bank politics.
"In Gujarat, where there used to be many riots in a year, there has been no major riot after 2002. We do not do vote-bank politics; we do the politics of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas'."
Modi also contextualized the events of that time, referring to:
- The Kandahar hijacking (1999)
- The 9/11 attacks in the U.S. (2001)
- Attacks on the Jammu & Kashmir Assembly and Indian Parliament (2001)
He suggested that Gujarat’s post-2002 stability is proof of his government’s strong and proactive governance.
India’s Role in World Peace and Cultural Heritage
Beyond domestic politics, PM Modi spoke at length about India’s role in global peace efforts.
"Whenever we speak of peace, the world listens to us because India is the land of Mahatma Gandhi and Gautama Buddha."
He credited India's influence on global diplomacy to its rich cultural and spiritual heritage, emphasizing that when he interacts with world leaders, he represents 1.4 billion Indians, not just himself.
"When I shake hands with world leaders, it's not Modi but 1.4 billion Indians doing so. My strength lies not in my name but in the backing of my people and our country's timeless culture and heritage."
Mahatma Gandhi’s Influence on Modi’s Leadership Style
PM Modi reflected on Mahatma Gandhi’s leadership, particularly his ability to mobilize people into a mass movement. He emphasized that society’s collective strength is limitless, and he applies Gandhi’s principles in his governance approach.
"Mahatma Gandhi transformed India’s freedom struggle into a Jan Andolan (mass movement). I strive to involve as many people as possible in every initiative, turning it into a movement through Jan Bhagidari (people’s participation)."
Calling Gandhi the greatest leader of not just the 20th century, but also the 21st and upcoming centuries, Modi reinforced India’s commitment to peace, unity, and progress on the global stage.
PM Modi’s conversation with Lex Fridman covered a wide spectrum of topics—from India’s past struggles to its future ambitions. By addressing historical controversies, governance philosophies, and India's place in the world, he painted a picture of a nation rooted in tradition yet focused on modern progress.
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