In a recent podcast with Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared his insights on a variety of topics, including his childhood, friends, risk-taking ability, vision for the youth, and more. One of the key highlights of the podcast was when PM Modi spoke about how children often ask him what it feels like to see himself on television and how he copes with constant criticism.

In the podcast, he also spoke about a mistake he made as the Chief Minister of Gujarat, acknowledging that mistakes happen and that, like everyone else, he too can make mistakes because he is not God.

Here are some key highlights from the podcast :

PM Modi Debut Podcast: 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi admitted that this was his first time on a podcast platform. “This is my debut podcast, and honestly, I don’t know how it’ll be received by your audience,” he shared with a smile. 

Reflecting on a past moment from his time as Gujarat's Chief Minister, he recalled, “I once spoke in a way that may have come across as insensitive. Mistakes happen. After all, I am human, not a god.” He said, "When I became the Chief Minister, I gave a speech. I said publicly that mistakes happen, and I too make them. I am human, not a god."

Recalling the childhood:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recalled his childhood days, sharing that he used to wash the clothes of his family members. "I used to wash the clothes of all my family members. Because of that, I was allowed to go to the pond," he reminisced with a smile.

Chinese Connection

PM Modi also pointed out an interesting historical connection to his hometown, Vadnagar in Gujarat. He mentioned reading about Chinese philosopher Hiuen Tsang's visit to the town. "I learned that Hiuen Tsang had stayed in Vadnagar for some time, and a film was being made about his travels. Inspired by this, I wrote to the Chinese embassy, requesting them to include our village in the film," he said.

Calls from World Leaders

When Modi became Prime Minister in 2014, he started receiving calls from various world leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping. Modi shared that during his conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping, the Chinese leader expressed a desire to visit Gujarat. "I said that's great. But then Xi mentioned he wanted to visit Vadnagar in Gujarat. I was intrigued by how detailed his plan was," Modi recalled. Xi then told him, "You and I share a special relationship."

His evolving leadership across three Terms

Prime Minister Modi discussed how his approach has evolved over his three terms in office. "In my first term, both the people and I were getting to know each other, and I was understanding Delhi. In the second term, I often reflected on the past. But in the third term, my perspective has shifted, my confidence is stronger, and my ambitions have expanded," he explained.

Modi's formula for success in politics

Prime Minister Modi forecast his approach to achieving success in politics, by marking the importance of dedication and teamwork. "To be successful in politics, one must be fully committed and always present for the people. Being a good team player is key. If someone sees themselves as above others, expecting everyone to follow them, they might win elections, but that doesn’t guarantee long-term success as a politician," he said.

Nation first ideology

Prime Minister Modi shared his core belief of prioritizing the nation above all else. "I am not the type of person who changes his stance for convenience. I have always believed in one ideology. If I were to sum it up in a few words, it would be 'Nation first.' Anything that aligns with this principle pushes me forward and doesn't restrict me to old ideologies and traditions. I am open to leaving behind the old and embracing the new, but the condition remains, 'Nation first'," he said.