Negativity has short lifespan, positivity endures indefinitely: PM Modi

The old-school interactive show, commenced by the Prime Minister on October 3, 2014, reportedly boasts 230 million regular listeners.

Negativity has a short lifespan, while positivity endures indefinitely, believes Prime Minister Narendra Modi, currently visiting every nook and corner of the nation as India gears up to vote for the 18th Lok Sabha Elections.

In an exclusive interview with Newsweek, Modi asserted that he channels his positive energy into his monthly radio program, the widely popular Mann Ki Baat.

The old-school interactive show, commenced by the PM on October 3, 2014, reportedly boasts 230 million regular listeners. This state radio show is just one of the numerous ways PM Modi endeavours to be accessible to his countrymen, imprinting his personal touch on the myriad changes shaping their lives.

"A leader must possess the skill to engage with the grassroots level and obtain authentic, unfiltered feedback," asserts the Prime Minister in his candid chat, emphasising that he views all communication with his countrymen as a mutual exchange.

The nearly 30-minute radio show, for which PM Modi has recorded more than 100 episodes, begins with a warm "Mere pyaare deshwaasiyon, Namaskar" address by the Prime Minister of the most populous nation. This vintage-styled interactive programme has magnified PM Modi's popularity not just as the Prime Minister but also as a mentor, counsellor, and above all, a friend. On the one hand, PM Modi, as seen by the world, is a leader with a magnetic charm and exemplary oratory skills, and on the other hand, the Mann ki Baat show has cemented his presence among the masses like an omnipresent figure.

"I didn't even know that I am good at communication," the Prime Minister has been quoted by Newsweek on being questioned about his oratory skills.

This world leader, now looked upon for his take on critical issues on the global dias, back home, can be heard dispensing guidance on coping with academic pressure, advocating for water preservation, and demonstrating an acute understanding of the difficulties faced in rural and agricultural communities.

Needless to say, PM Modi's communication approach seems to be effective. A vast number of Indians have, to date, engaged with the Prime Minister's messages, resonating with his optimistic tone and feeling acknowledged by him.

"I am god-gifted with this quality," beams a proud Narendra Modi, as Newsweek states, when discussing his listening skills.

What has been the driving factor in this tale is that the Man of the Hour, Narendra Modi, eyeing to set up India's very own semiconductor hub, advocating for conscious integration of AI across various sectors, dons on a "Modi jacket", walks into his government bungalow, and fires up a conversation with his "beloved countrymen" in an archaic style that has captured the hearts of millions of Indians.

As the nation goes to vote amid the soaring temperatures and flaring up electoral battles, Narendra Modi eyes a third term as the Prime Minister, firmly established in authority and positivity.