PM with a podcast: India’s Modi celebrates ‘unsung heroes’ in Mann Ki Baat’s 100th episode

Modi is not a fan of media interviews or meeting voters face to face, preferring to connect with citizens on his monthly, 30-minute podcast

On the show, he discusses matters of interest to citizens, expresses his ideals, and even dispenses avuncular advice to Indians across ages, social classes

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India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said the radio chats are like conversing with “my family about routine issues while sitting at home”. Photo: Bloomberg

Published: 4:00pm, 29 Apr 2023

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is notoriously averse to talking to the media, but since taking office he has helmed a popular channel to connect with people: his own podcast.

On Mann Ki Baat (loosely translated as “Inner Thoughts”), a monthly radio broadcast that’s also available on YouTube, he discusses matters of interest to citizens, expresses his ideals, and even dispenses avuncular advice.

No issue is too small on the show, which will mark its 100th episode on Sunday. To a farmer, Modi may urge the growing of millets, a superfood that is easy to grow, requires little water, and is poised to be in demand globally.

For nine years, the show has followed the same format. Ordinary Indians send in questions or suggestions. Out of the thousands received, some are selected. Then, on the national radio network, Modi spends half an hour responding. Photo: AP

To a young girl who has written in to express dismay at neighbours polluting a local river with rubbish, Modi may praise her civic-mindedness. “This is exactly what I want – that 1.3 billion countrymen should be angered by filth. Once there is anger … we will be compelled to act against this scourge,” he said.

To students fretting about exams, he may suggest diverting their minds to help them relax. “Exams are not everything. You, young Indians, should take up hobbies and travel to widen your horizons. Do something outside the box,” he told one student.