On Narendra Modi’s 76th Birthday — A Leader, a Long Political Journey and a Changing India
New Delhi | Shabu Zaidi
While the country is witnessing an atmosphere of faith and celebration on the occasion of Ganesh Utsav, September 17 also marks the birthday of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Born on September 17, 1950, in Vadnagar, Gujarat, Narendra Modi has turned 76 today. He is the first Prime Minister of India to have been born after the country gained independence.
Narendra Modi’s political journey, from a humble family background to the office of Prime Minister, is among the stories of Indian democracy that demonstrate how a person from a small town can rise to the highest level of national politics. According to the official biography published by the Prime Minister’s Office, he became involved in public life and social service at a young age and eventually went on to become the Chief Minister of Gujarat and later the Prime Minister of India.
After assuming office as Prime Minister in 2014, his government adopted “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas” (Together with All, Development for All) as one of its principal political messages. Later, the phrases “Sabka Vishwas” and “Sabka Prayas” were also added. On several occasions, the Prime Minister has stated that ensuring development reaches the last person in society and bringing positive changes to the lives of the poor are among the government’s priorities.
Narendra Modi’s political tenure cannot be viewed solely through the lens of domestic politics. During his tenure as Prime Minister, India has sought to highlight its economic, diplomatic and strategic role on the global stage. Along with presenting India’s priorities at the United Nations, G20, BRICS and other international forums, the initiative to give yoga a global identity has also been one of the notable developments of his tenure. The proposal for an International Day of Yoga received the support of 177 countries at the United Nations.
His supporters associate his leadership with development, infrastructure, digital transformation, welfare programmes for the poor and India’s growing role globally. At the same time, in a democracy, it is natural for any government or leader to be assessed on the basis of its decisions, policies and their actual impact. That is also the beauty of a democratic system—there is space for support, questions and disagreement.
Narendra Modi’s birthday is therefore also an occasion to reflect on India’s democratic journey. India is a country where the sound of temple bells can be heard alongside the call to prayer from mosques, the prayers of gurdwaras and the prayers offered in churches. This diversity is what makes India unique.
The Prime Minister’s supporters are extending their greetings to him today, highlighting his long public life, India’s development and the country’s role on the international stage. On this occasion, perhaps the most meaningful wish for him would be that development, peace, social harmony, equal opportunities and the democratic values enshrined in the Constitution continue to grow stronger in India.
From September 17, 1950, to September 17, 2026—Narendra Modi has completed 76 years of his life. His birthday is not only a milestone in his personal journey but also an opportunity to remember a long and significant chapter in Indian politics.