PM says autobiographies teach lessons that social media shortcuts never can, as he launches Kovind's memoir.
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday called on young Indians to turn to autobiographies rather than social media shortcuts, warning that instant gratification culture could derail genuine growth.
Speaking at the release of former President Ram Nath Kovind's memoir, Triumph of the Indian Republic: My Life, My Struggles, Modi held up Kovind's journey — from a modest village background to the country's highest constitutional post — as proof that grit outlasts circumstance.
"This is the age of reels, where influencers pull you in every direction," Modi said. "But remember the line often seen at railway stations: shortcut will cut you short."
The PM noted that Kovind hadn't slowed down since leaving Rashtrapati Bhavan, pointing to his continued work on the "One Nation, One Election" proposal, which Modi said could reshape India's electoral landscape.
Modi framed autobiographies as windows into history — lived accounts that let readers understand an era through someone who shaped or witnessed it. He described Kovind's book as a future "heritage" text for Indian democracy, one capable of inspiring a new generation to push toward a self-reliant India despite adversity.
Touching on Kovind's early life, Modi recounted the loss of his mother in a house fire during his childhood — a tragedy he said hardened rather than broke him, aided by the values instilled by his father. Modi also shared personal memories of Kovind as president, recalling informal exchanges that broke from strict protocol, including Kovind insisting on walking him to his car despite Modi's objections.
Kovind, in his remarks, traced his roots to Kanpur Dehat in Uttar Pradesh, describing a childhood shaped by scarcity — including a leaking roof during monsoons — and by the compassion of fellow villagers. He credited government housing schemes with giving millions of poor families a dignified roof over their heads, something his own family once lacked.
He also paid tribute to former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee's commitment to the "last person in line," and said his own interactions with Modi had left a lasting impression, citing Modi's ability to connect with ordinary workers. Kovind said his affinity for the BJP stemmed from what he called the party's focus on nation over dynasty or community politics.
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, also present, called Kovind a "living sketch" of perseverance and praised his contributions to strengthening India's diplomatic standing. Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and several Union ministers attended the event.
