Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Aug 12: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday urged the younger generation to look beyond social media reels and draw inspiration from real-life stories of perseverance, saying that “shortcut will cut you short”.
Modi was speaking at the launch of former President Ram Nath Kovind's autobiography, Triumph of the Indian Republic: My Life, My Struggles. He encouraged young people to read autobiographies and cited Kovind's life as an example of how determination and perseverance can help overcome adversity and reach the highest constitutional office.
“Today is the era of reels, social media influencers draw you somewhere. But in this age too, remember what's written in railway stations: Shortcut will cut you short,” Modi said.
The prime minister highlighted Kovind's continued public engagement even after completing his tenure as President, particularly his involvement in the “One Nation, One Election” initiative.
Modi said Kovind had detailed his experiences with former Prime Minister Morarji Desai and other important figures in his autobiography. He noted that Kovind had continued working on significant national issues after leaving office.
“Even after stepping down from the highest office of President, he has not paused to rest; he continues to work on significant issues such as 'One Nation, One Election,' striving to awaken the nation to their importance. Finding a solution to this issue could herald a new chapter for the country's democracy,” Modi said.
Modi also recalled the tragic loss of Kovind's mother during his childhood and reflected on how the experience shaped the former president's life and career.
He said Kovind's struggles were personal, but the achievements that emerged from them belonged to India's Republic and democracy.
Modi said people often take credit for their successes while blaming society for their difficulties, but those guided by Indian values recognise society's contribution to their achievements.
“Kovind ji's autobiography and its title are examples of this,” he said.
The prime minister also spoke about his own experience of having his mother live for more than a century, saying he had been fortunate to receive her blessings for many years.