PM Modi remembers his mother at ex-president's autobiography launch: ‘Even today, I feel the void’

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a gathering in New Delhi on August 12, 2026, during the launch of former President Ram Nath Kovind’s autobiography, Triumph of the Indian Republic: My Life, My Struggles. Speaking at the event, Modi emphasized the importance of reading biographical works, urging young people to learn from the lives of others rather than relying solely on social media content. He warned against taking shortcuts in life, citing a message commonly found in railway stations: “Shortcut will cut you short.” Modi praised Kovind’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming India’s 14th president, highlighting how determination helped him overcome adversity. He recounted an emotional moment from Kovind’s book, describing how Kovind’s mother died in a fire while attempting to save household items when he was a child. This tragic loss, Modi noted, did not break Kovind but instead strengthened his resolve. He also spoke of Kovind’s continued work on the “One Nation, One Election” initiative, calling it a potential milestone for Indian democracy. Kovind shared reflections on his early life in Kanpur Dehat, Uttar Pradesh, where he learned values of compassion and resilience from his rural upbringing. He acknowledged the impact of government initiatives that provided housing for millions of poor families, allowing them to live with dignity. He also expressed admiration for former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s commitment to uplifting marginalized communities and for Modi’s ability to connect with ordinary citizens. The event drew attention not only for its focus on Kovind’s life but also for Modi’s broader strategy to engage younger generations. Following the widespread protests related to the NEET exam paper leak, often referred to as the Gen Z protests, Modi had directed his ministers to use platforms like Instagram more effectively to reach young audiences. Recently, he has increased his own presence on social media, posting videos aimed directly at youth. During the book launch, Modi also reflected on his own relationship with Kovind, recalling conversations they had at Rashtrapati Bhavan that went beyond formal protocols. He noted how Kovind would personally escort him to his vehicle despite repeated requests not to do so. These moments, Modi suggested, illustrated Kovind’s warmth and dedication to service. Kovind reiterated his reasons for joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), stating that the party prioritized national interests over familial or communal loyalties. He credited the BJP with providing opportunities for individuals like himself to contribute meaningfully to the country’s progress. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, who attended the event, echoed Modi’s sentiments, emphasizing the significance of Kovind’s contributions to Indian democracy. While specific details of his comments remain unreported, his presence underscored the political weight of the occasion. Modi’s speech at the book launch aligns with ongoing efforts by the government to strengthen its connection with younger voters. With the upcoming elections looming, these outreach strategies aim to ensure sustained support among Gen Z. The emphasis on autobiographies and personal narratives appears to be part of a larger narrative-building exercise, reinforcing the idea that leadership is rooted in perseverance and service. As the event concluded, Kovind’s book was presented as both a tribute to his personal journey and a call to action for the youth. Modi’s endorsement of the work suggests it will be promoted widely within educational institutions and political circles, further embedding its themes into the discourse surrounding Indian governance and identity.