The Spiritual and Political Odyssey of Narendra Modi: Unveiling the Man Behind the Leadership

The Philosophy and Practice of Fasting: Insights from Narendra Modi

Fasting, for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is far more than abstaining from food—it is a profound practice that blends spirituality, discipline, and self-discovery. When Lex Fridman revealed he was fasting for 45 hours in preparation for their conversation, Modi expressed deep gratitude, noting the gesture as a tribute to Indian traditions. He emphasized that fasting in India transcends mere ritual; it is a way of life rooted in Hindu philosophy, which the Supreme Court once described as a guide to living rather than a set of worship methods.

Here's the YouTube link for my conversation with @narendramodi:https://t.co/W0Gf5IfVAk

This episode is available in English, Hindi, and other languages. Captions and voice-over audio tracks are provided (for the main episode video on YouTube) in English, Hindi, and the… pic.twitter.com/r8y09OJ939

— Lex Fridman (@lexfridman) March 16, 2025

Modi explained that fasting serves as a tool to cultivate discipline and balance both the inner self and external life. During a fast, heightened sensitivity sharpens the senses—smell, touch, and taste become acutely aware. For instance, one might notice the subtle aroma of water or perceive intricate details of familiar objects like flowers. This sensory enhancement also accelerates mental clarity and creativity, allowing individuals to think outside conventional boundaries. “Fasting isn’t just about giving up food,” Modi clarified. “It’s a scientific process requiring preparation.”

To prepare, Modi follows a regimen involving Ayurvedic practices, yoga, and traditional cleansing methods over five to seven days before fasting. Drinking ample water ensures his body is detoxified and ready. Once the fast begins, it becomes an act of devotion and self-discipline, fostering introspection and transforming daily activities into moments of spiritual focus.

For Modi, fasting is not dictated by tradition but stems from personal experience. It has shaped his perspective on life, offering insights that extend beyond physical endurance to encompass emotional resilience and intellectual growth. Through fasting, he connects deeply with himself and the world around him—a practice he views as universally transformative.

A wonderful conversation with @lexfridman, covering a wide range of subjects. Do watch! https://t.co/G9pKE2RJqh

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 16, 2025

Humble Beginnings: The Making of a Leader

Narendra Modi’s early life in Vadnagar, Gujarat, was marked by simplicity and resilience. Born into a modest family, he grew up in a one-room house with a mud floor, sharing space with his parents, siblings, and extended family. Despite the lack of material comforts, Modi recalls his childhood as one free from the feeling of deprivation. His family’s hard work and discipline shaped his worldview.

His father, Damodar Modi, left home at 4:00 AM daily to walk miles, visit temples, and run a tea shop. Known for his punctuality, his footsteps became a village clock, signaling the start of the day. His mother ensured the family never felt the weight of poverty, instilling values of perseverance and gratitude.

Modi’s upbringing was steeped in history and culture. As a child, he collected engraved stones for his school, unaware that Vadnagar was once a hub of Buddhist learning visited by Chinese philosopher Hiuen Tsang. Later, as chief minister, Modi initiated excavations revealing the town’s 2,800-year-old heritage, showcasing its significance as a center for Buddhist, Jain, and Hindu traditions.

Though his family lived in extreme poverty by conventional standards, Modi never felt its burden. He recalls not realizing the absence of luxuries like shoes since they were never part of his life. When gifted canvas shoes by an uncle, he cherished them deeply, even polishing them with chalk paste to keep them clean. Similarly, without access to modern conveniences like irons, he pressed his clothes using heated water in a copper pot.

These experiences taught him self-reliance, resourcefulness, and the value of discipline. For Modi, his humble beginnings weren’t a limitation but a foundation for growth, shaping his leadership philosophy and unwavering commitment to service.

Advice to Young People

Lex Fridman There’s a lot of young people listening to this that are truly inspired by your story. From those humble beginnings to the leader of the biggest democracy in the world, what can you tell to those young folks who are struggling, who are lost in the world, who are trying to find their way? What advice could you give them?

Narendra Modi I want to tell all the young people the following. No matter how dark the night may seem, it is still just night, and morning is bound to come. That’s why we need patience and self-confidence. Yes, the challenges are real, but I am not defined by my circumstances. I am here for a purpose, sent by a higher power, and I am not alone.

The one who sent me is always with me. This unwavering faith should always remain within us. Difficulties are a test of endurance. They are not meant to defeat me. Hardships exist to make me stronger, helping me grow and improve, not to leave me feeling hopeless or discouraged. Personally, I see every crisis, every challenge as an opportunity.

 So, to all young people, I say, have patience. There are no shortcuts in life. At our railway stations, there hangs a sign for those who habitually cross the tracks instead of using the bridge, it reads, “Shortcut will cut you short.” I would tell young people the same, shortcut will cut you short. There are no shortcuts in life. Patience and perseverance are essential.

Whatever responsibility we are given, we must pour our heart into it. We should live it with passion. Enjoy the journey and find fulfillment in it. I truly believe that if this mindset is cultivated, it transforms life. Similarly, abundance alone is not enough. There is no guarantee of success. Even a wealthy person who indulges in comfort and idleness will eventually wither away.

 Instead, he must decide, “Yes, I may have resources around me, but I must use my abilities to grow them further. I must contribute more to society with my own strength. Even if I am in a good position, there is still so much more to do. Even if I am not in a good position, there is still so much work to do.” That’s what I believe. I have also noticed that some people tend to think, “I’ve learned enough. That’s it.” But one should never let the student within them die.

Learning should never stop. I believe that as long as I am alive, I must have a purpose. Perhaps I exist to keep learning, to keep growing. Now, my mother tongue is Gujarati, and we were not very familiar with the Hindi language, nor did we know how to speak it eloquently or communicate effectively. But as a child, I used to sit at my father’s tea shop, and at that young age, I got the chance to meet so many people. And every time, I learned something from them, I observed their ways of speaking, their expressions.

These things taught me a lot, even though I wasn’t in a position to apply it then, I thought, “If I ever get the chance, why not? Why shouldn’t I present myself well?” So, I believe the desire to learn should always remain alive. And another thing I’ve observed is that most people dream about achieving something or becoming someone. They set big targets and when they fall short, they feel disappointed.

Spiritual Awakening in the Himalayas: Narendra Modi’s Transformative Journey

At 17, Narendra Modi embarked on a two-year spiritual journey through the Himalayas, living a minimalist, nomadic life akin to a yogi. This period, though rarely discussed by him, shaped his worldview profoundly. Growing up in a small town, Modi was deeply inspired by books from the local library, particularly stories of Swami Vivekananda and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, which fueled his desire to lead a purposeful life.

Modi often tested his physical limits, such as sleeping outdoors during cold December nights to understand endurance. His routine included reading, swimming, and reflecting on philosophical teachings. One pivotal moment came when he read about Swami Vivekananda’s meditation before Goddess Kali. Despite his mother’s illness, Vivekananda couldn’t bring himself to ask for help, realizing instead the power of selflessness and giving—a realization that resonated deeply with Modi.

This idea of unity between the divine and humanity—serving all beings as one—became central to Modi’s thinking. During Navratri, he chose to stay behind and care for a fasting saint instead of attending a family wedding, showcasing an early commitment to service over personal enjoyment. Inspired by soldiers returning home in uniform, Modi felt a growing urge to contribute meaningfully to society. Though unclear about his path initially, this hunger for understanding life drove him to explore deeper truths, setting the stage for his lifelong dedication to service and leadership.

A Life of Service: The Monk and the Leader

At a pivotal moment in his youth, Narendra Modi faced a crossroads: to embrace Sannyasa (monkhood) and renounce worldly life or dedicate himself to serving humanity. Guided by Swami Atmasthananda at the Ramakrishna Mission Ashram, Modi chose the path of service. To outsiders, he may be seen as a leader, prime minister, or chief minister, but internally, his identity remains rooted in unwavering spirituality and commitment to helping others.

The essence of Modi’s being—whether caring for children alongside his mother, wandering through the Himalayas, or leading a nation—is united by an inner consistency: selfless service. While roles and appearances change, his core dedication to serving others with calmness, focus, and devotion has remained constant, blurring the line between saintly renunciation and leadership.

The Influence of RSS and Hindu Nationalism on Narendra Modi

At the age of eight, Narendra Modi joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), a volunteer-driven organization rooted in Hindu nationalism. Inspired by patriotic songs and community programs led by figures like Makoshi Soni, Modi was drawn to the RSS’s emphasis on purposeful living—studying to serve the nation, exercising to strengthen oneself for societal good, and fostering unity through shared values.

The RSS instilled in Modi the belief that serving the nation is akin to serving God, a principle echoed in ancient Vedic teachings and Swami Vivekananda’s philosophy. Beyond its ideological framework, the RSS inspired tangible social initiatives. For instance:

• Seva Bharati runs 125,000 service projects in slums, focusing on education, health, and cleanliness without government aid.
• Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram serves tribal communities, establishing over 70,000 one-teacher schools in remote areas.
• Vidya Bharati operates nearly 25,000 schools, educating millions at low costs.

These efforts reflect the RSS’s commitment to societal upliftment and national progress, shaping Modi’s political ideology and lifelong dedication to service.

The Idea That Unifies India

India, as a nation, is not defined by geography or administrative systems but by its deep-rooted cultural identity and shared heritage. Despite its vast diversity—over 100 languages, thousands of dialects, and varying customs every 20 miles—a common thread binds the country together. Stories like those of Lord Ram resonate across regions, with names inspired by him found everywhere, from Rambhai in Gujarat to Ramachandra in Tamil Nadu.

Simple rituals also unite Indians. For instance, during bathing ceremonies, people chant the names of all major rivers—Ganga, Yamuna, Godavari, Saraswati, Narmada, Sindhu, Kaveri—symbolizing national unity. Similarly, resolutions made during events invoke the universe, narrowing down to villages and families, preserving history through tradition.

This unity stems from cultural bonds rather than political structures. Pilgrimage traditions, such as traveling between sacred sites like Kashi and Rameshwaram, further strengthen this connection. Even today, millions participate in these practices, showcasing how India’s civilization thrives on shared values and timeless customs.

Mahatma Gandhi: The Soul of India’s Freedom Struggle

Mahatma Gandhi, born in Gujarat like Narendra Modi, left a lasting legacy as one of modern India’s most influential figures. Despite opportunities for personal comfort abroad, Gandhi sacrificed everything to serve India and lead its fight for independence. He lived by his principles, advocating for cleanliness and practicing it daily.

Gandhi’s leadership transformed India’s freedom struggle into a mass movement rooted in truth and non-violence. He united people from all walks of life—teachers, sweepers, weavers, and caregivers—into a collective effort for independence. His Dandi March, symbolized by a pinch of salt, ignited a revolution that baffled the British. Gandhi’s ability to inspire ordinary citizens turned them into freedom fighters, making him an immortal figure whose stories continue to shape India’s identity.

Path to Peace in Ukraine

Narendra Modi emphasizes India’s cultural legacy of peace, rooted in the teachings of Lord Buddha and Mahatma Gandhi. This heritage positions India as a natural peacemaker on the global stage. Modi leverages his close relationships with both Russia and Ukraine, urging leaders like President Putin and President Zelensky to prioritize dialogue over conflict. He stresses that battlefield victories won’t resolve the crisis—only negotiations between Russia and Ukraine can bring lasting peace.

Modi highlights the global repercussions of the war, including food, fuel, and fertilizer shortages affecting the Global South. He calls for unity within the international community to push for peace. For Modi, peace is not neutrality but a firm stance he consistently advocates, striving to mediate and foster meaningful talks between warring nations.

Path to Peace Between India and Pakistan

The conflict between India and Pakistan is one of the world’s most enduring and tense rivalries, rooted in ideological differences and historical divisions. Narendra Modi, known for his peacemaking efforts, reflects on the painful partition of 1947, which led to widespread bloodshed and displacement. Despite the initial hope for peaceful coexistence, relations deteriorated as Pakistan adopted policies fostering terrorism, destabilizing the region and affecting global security. For instance, figures like Osama bin Laden found refuge in Pakistan, highlighting its role as a hub for terror networks.

Modi emphasizes that peace with Pakistan remains elusive due to its continued support for proxy wars and terrorism. However, he has consistently advocated for dialogue, urging Pakistan to abandon state-sponsored terrorism and embrace harmony. His proactive gestures include visiting Lahore and inviting Pakistan’s leadership to his swearing-in ceremony—a historic move aimed at resetting ties. Unfortunately, these efforts were met with hostility, underscoring the challenges of fostering trust.

Despite setbacks, Modi believes lasting peace is possible if Pakistan chooses the path of cooperation over conflict. He also acknowledges that the people of Pakistan likely yearn for stability amidst relentless violence. Reflecting on past attempts, such as extending diplomatic invitations, Modi stresses that goodwill must be reciprocated for meaningful progress toward friendship and regional stability.

The Role of Sports in India-Pakistan Relations

Cricket and football have the power to unite people across nations, fostering deeper connections beyond borders. Narendra Modi emphasizes that sports are not just games but tools for human evolution. Regarding the rivalry between India and Pakistan in cricket, Modi avoids technical comparisons, stating that match results often reveal which team performs better.

On football, Modi acknowledges India’s growing football culture, particularly in regions with strong fan bases. Reflecting on past legends, he highlights Maradona as a hero of the 1980s, while Messi is celebrated by today’s generation as the greatest player. Sports, for Modi, play a crucial role in bridging divides and inspiring unity, even amidst geopolitical tensions.

Narendra Modi on Donald Trump: Friendship, Leadership, and Mutual Respect

Narendra Modi shares a strong bond with Donald Trump, rooted in mutual respect and trust. During the “Howdy Modi” event in Houston, Trump’s humility stood out when he sat in the audience to listen to Modi’s speech, a gesture uncommon for a U.S. President. After the speech, Modi suggested they walk through the crowded stadium to greet attendees—a near-impossible act in U.S. presidential security protocols. Trump agreed without hesitation, showcasing his courage, decisiveness, and trust in Modi. This moment highlighted their deep connection and mutual respect.

Trump’s resilience was further evident during his recent campaign when he continued despite being shot, embodying his unwavering dedication to America. Modi admires Trump’s “America First” philosophy, which aligns with his own “India First” principle, fostering a strong personal and ideological connection.

During Modi’s first White House visit, Trump broke protocol by personally guiding him on a tour, sharing historical insights about the presidency without notes or aides. This demonstrated Trump’s respect for the office and his genuine engagement. Even after Trump left office, he repeatedly conveyed regards to Modi through mutual acquaintances, underscoring the enduring trust and closeness between them.

When asked about Trump’s comment calling Modi a tougher negotiator, Modi humbly attributed it to Trump’s graciousness. He emphasized that his negotiation style prioritizes India’s interests, advocating strongly for his nation while maintaining positive relations globally. For Modi, serving India is a sacred duty entrusted to him by its people, and he remains steadfast in honoring that responsibility.

Reinvigorating India-China Relations

Narendra Modi emphasizes the deep historical and cultural ties between India and China, highlighting their shared contributions to global progress. For centuries, the two civilizations have learned from each other, with Buddhism serving as a key link. While occasional disagreements are natural, Modi stresses the importance of dialogue to prevent differences from escalating into disputes.

Tensions along the border, particularly after the 2020 clashes, strained relations. However, recent meetings with President Xi Jinping have helped restore normalcy, with efforts underway to rebuild trust and cooperation. Modi underscores that collaboration between India and China is vital for global stability and prosperity. As Asia leads the 21st century, he envisions healthy competition between the two nations, ensuring it remains constructive rather than confrontational.

Lessons from the 2002 Gujarat Riots

The 2002 Gujarat riots, marked by violent clashes between Hindu and Muslim communities, resulted in over 1,000 deaths and exposed deep religious tensions. As Chief Minister of Gujarat at the time, Narendra Modi faced scrutiny, but India’s independent Supreme Court twice upheld that he had no involvement in the violence.

Reflecting on this period, Modi emphasizes the importance of understanding the broader context and lessons of such events. He acknowledges the significance of addressing communal tensions proactively and fostering trust among diverse communities. Modi also highlights the value of resilience, unity, and governance focused on peace and harmony to prevent such tragedies in the future.

He commended Lex Fridman’s sincere effort to understand India deeply, noting the importance of honest inquiry in uncovering truths about complex historical events.

Winning Elections in the World’s Largest Democracy

Narendra Modi attributes his electoral success in India, the world’s largest democracy, to trust, inclusivity, and relentless service. For over two decades, he has earned the people’s trust through unwavering dedication and a sense of duty, treating governance as a sacred responsibility.

Key elements of his approach include:

1. Inclusive Governance : Ensuring welfare schemes reach every citizen equally, without discrimination based on caste, creed, faith, wealth, or ideology. This fosters trust and ensures no one feels left out.
2. People-Centric Leadership : His governance is rooted in serving the people, not political gains. He lives among citizens as one of them, building trust by working harder than those around him and avoiding conflicts of interest.
3. Strong Party Support : The BJP’s millions of selfless volunteers, devoted to India’s welfare, strengthen public trust and drive electoral success. Their grassroots efforts reflect the party’s commitment to the nation’s progress.

Modi’s leadership transcends elections, focusing on the well-being of citizens and the greater good of the nation, earning him widespread support and blessings from the people.

On Power and Loneliness

Narendra Modi dismisses the notion of being “powerful,” identifying himself as a humble servant rather than the Prime Minister. He entered politics not to seek power but to serve, prioritizing productivity and positive change over personal ambition.

Modi emphasizes that he never feels lonely, guided by the philosophy of “one plus one”—Modi and the Almighty. This belief aligns with Swami Vivekananda’s ideals, where serving humanity is seen as serving the divine. For Modi, the nation is sacred, and people are reflections of the divine, eliminating any sense of loneliness.

During the pandemic, he adapted by designing a governance model reliant on videoconferencing, staying engaged through remote work and virtual meetings.

Philosophy Behind Hard Work

Narendra Modi attributes his work ethic to the inspiration he draws from those around him. He believes he is not unique in his dedication, pointing to the relentless efforts of farmers, soldiers, laborers, and women who manage families. Farmers endure harsh conditions, soldiers serve tirelessly in extreme environments, and mothers and sisters prioritize family welfare day and night. Observing their sacrifices motivates him to stay committed to his responsibilities without seeking rest or relaxation. For Modi, these examples fuel his drive and perseverance.

Inspiration from Srinivasa Ramanujan

Narendra Modi deeply respects Srinivasa Ramanujan, a self-taught mathematical genius who rose from poverty. Modi highlights the profound connection between science and spirituality, noting that many advanced minds are also spiritually inclined. Ramanujan attributed his groundbreaking mathematical insights to the goddess he worshipped, symbolizing how ideas emerge from spiritual discipline. For Modi, this reflects the importance of complete devotion and immersion in one’s work, transcending mere hard work to become one with the task

Decision-Making Process

Narendra Modi attributes his decisiveness to three key factors:

1. Ground Realities : Extensive travel across 85-90% of India’s districts has given him firsthand knowledge of grassroots issues, beyond books or reports.
2. No Baggage : He operates without political or personal baggage, ensuring decisions are unbiased and focused on the nation’s good.
3. Nation First : His guiding principle is prioritizing India’s welfare, asking if a decision harms or benefits the country. He also follows Mahatma Gandhi’s advice—thinking of the poorest citizen and whether the decision will improve their life.

This approach ensures decisions are rooted in empathy, practicality, and national interest.

India’s Path to AI Leadership

Narendra Modi asserts that global AI development will remain incomplete without India, emphasizing the country’s vast pool of engineering talent. He believes no nation can develop AI entirely on its own, highlighting the need for global cooperation. Modi points out the limitations of AI with an example: when asked to generate an image of a person writing with their left hand, AI struggles due to biases in training data.

For India to lead in AI, Modi underscores the importance of leveraging its talent, fostering innovation, and collaborating globally. He stresses that India’s contributions are essential for the world to fully harness AI’s potential.

Education and Exam Stress in India

Narendra Modi highlights the intense pressure Indian students face due to a societal obsession with rankings and exam performance. Schools and families often equate success with high grades, particularly in 10th and 12th-grade exams, making students feel their future depends entirely on these tests.

To address this, Modi emphasizes the need for systemic changes, as outlined in India’s new education policy, which aims to reduce stress and shift focus from rote learning to holistic education. Meanwhile, he conducts Pariksha Pe Charcha , an interactive session with students, to understand their challenges, share advice on exam preparation and stress management, and foster a broader perspective on learning.

Modi stresses that while exams are important for assessing knowledge, they should not define a student’s overall potential. True learning and skill development, rather than exam scores alone, can help students excel in their unique strengths and life paths.

Approach to Learning and Focus

Narendra Modi emphasizes the importance of being fully present as a key to effective learning. By giving complete attention to the moment, he grasps new concepts quickly and encourages others to adopt this habit for sharper focus and improved learning.

He stresses that knowledge alone is insufficient—practice is essential. For instance, mastering driving requires hands-on experience, not just studying great drivers. Taking risks and overcoming fear are also crucial to growth. Modi believes living in the present enables individuals to make the most of every moment, as each lived moment becomes part of the past.

Importance of the Gayatri Mantra

Narendra Modi encouraged Lex Fridman to chant the Gayatri Mantra, praising his effort. The mantra, dedicated to the sun’s radiant power, is a profound tool for spiritual enlightenment. Modi explained that mantras in Hindu philosophy are deeply connected to science and nature, influencing various aspects of life. Regular chanting of mantras brings lasting benefits, fostering spiritual growth and inner peace.

Meditation and Spirituality

Narendra Modi views meditation, or dhyan , as simply being present in the moment, free from distractions. It is not about complexity or achieving enlightenment but about focusing on the here and now. He recalls a practical lesson from a sage in the Himalayas, who demonstrated mindfulness using a stream: positioning a leaf to catch water and letting it drip rhythmically into an upside-down bowl. This act symbolizes presence and focus, highlighting how meditation can be a natural, accessible practice.

Mantras and fasting deepen this connection, fostering spiritual clarity and discipline during solitude.

Lex Fridman’s Reflections on Visiting India

Lex Fridman expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage in a meaningful conversation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He praised the Prime Minister’s team for their kindness, efficiency, and professionalism, particularly highlighting the interpreter’s exceptional skill in simultaneous translation.

During his travels in Delhi, Fridman experienced India’s vibrant culture, describing it as a unique “chaos of human interactions” filled with dynamic personalities. He noted that Delhi, like New York or Texas in the U.S., represents just one slice of India’s diverse cultural tapestry.

Fridman shared his experience of wandering the streets, riding rickshaws, and engaging with locals, while acknowledging that some initially viewed him as a tourist with money to spend. Despite this, he embraced the opportunity to connect with people and gain deeper insights into life in India.

Siddhartha by Hermann Hesse

Lex Fridman reflects on Siddhartha as a transformative book that introduced him to India’s philosophical and spiritual traditions. While exploring the human condition through Western authors like Dostoevsky, Camus, and Kafka, he found Siddhartha offered an Eastern perspective on life’s enduring puzzles. Written by Hermann Hesse during a tumultuous phase of his life—marked by a failing marriage, shattered pacifist ideals post-World War I, and personal struggles with headaches, insomnia, and depression—the novel resonated deeply with Fridman. It became a lifelong guide, shaping his understanding of Eastern philosophy and spirituality.

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