Modi Ji: Lead. Serve. Inspire - Part II

Introduction

In the first part of this article, we reflected upon ten remarkable qualities of our venerated Prime Minister Narendra Modi (hereinafter referred to as Modi Ji) - a leader who has transformed challenges into opportunities and inspired millions through his discipline, vision, and commitment to the nation. From his decisive leadership and tireless passion for work, to his mastery over language, his ability to turn personal setbacks into strength, and his soulful outreach through Mann Ki Baat, Modi Ji has already set an unparalleled example of statesmanship rooted in humility and service.

Yet, the story of such a towering personality cannot be confined to just ten qualities. In this second part, we uncover another ten attributes that further illuminate the depth of his character and leadership. These qualities are not merely lessons for politicians or administrators; they are guiding beacons for professionals, students, entrepreneurs, and every citizen who aspires to rise above mediocrity and serve with purpose.

Click here to read the 1st part of the article

This Article is not just about knowing Modi Ji better-it is about drawing inspiration to strengthen our own lives and careers. Just as Modi Ji's journey from modest beginnings to global recognition proves that no dream is too big and no obstacle too strong, so too can we imbibe these qualities to achieve excellence in our own spheres. Following success manta must be borne in mind:

"Work with passion, lead with vision, serve with devotion.Turn every challenge into courage, every setback into strength.With Modi Ji's example-let us rise, let us shine, let us build the nation"

11. Proud of his poverty-Turning struggles into strength

Most people shy away from their humble beginnings, but Modi Ji wears his poverty-stricken past like a badge of honour. His story proves that hardships are not shackles but stepping stones to greatness. For many people, poverty is a chapter they prefer to forget once they achieve success. Often, individuals who rise from humble beginnings try to conceal their past hardships, fearing judgment or social stigma. But Modi Ji stands apart. With rare courage and honesty, he has never hesitated to share his childhood struggles. He often recalls how his mother, Smt. Heeraben, used to wash utensils in other households to sustain the family and how he himself helped his father sell tea at a railway station. Instead of hiding these memories, he embraces them with pride.

This openness reflects not just humility, but also his conviction that adversity shapes character. By narrating his own life story, he sends a strong message to the youth of India-that no circumstance, however challenging, can limit one's destiny if determination and hard work are strong. His journey from a tea-seller's son to the Prime Minister of the world's largest democracy is not just personal triumph, but a living example that every Indian child, no matter how poor, has the potential to rise to the highest office in the nation.

Friends, this is a lesson for all of us. We must not create a false image to impress others; rather, we should be proud of our real journey, however difficult it may have been. Modi Ji has shown that authenticity commands greater respect than pretension. His life teaches us that struggles are not weaknesses to be hidden, but strengths to be celebrated-because they build resilience, compassion, and the power to inspire millions. The following success manta of this quality must not be forgotten under any circumstances:

"Be proud of your roots, for they are the foundation of your strength.Embrace your struggles, for they are the stepping stones of your success. Stay true to yourself, for authenticity is the greatest power of all".

12. No favour to relatives

In India, it has long been seen that when a person attains political power, their family members quickly rise to prominence, enjoying privileges and influence far beyond their merit. Political dynasties often dominate both at the national and state levels, where leadership is passed from one generation to the next as if it were a family business. This culture of nepotism has weakened institutions, sidelined talent, and created frustration among common citizens who yearn for fairness and equal opportunity.

Against this backdrop, Modi Ji emerges as a shining exception. Throughout his leadership journey-first as Chief Minister of Gujarat (2002-2014) and now as Prime Minister of India (2014 till date)-he has never misused his position to benefit his relatives. Even today, his brother continues to live in a modest village, working in humble occupations, untouched by political influence or privilege. This is not a matter of indifference, but a conscious choice that reflects Modi Ji's conviction: public office is a sacred duty to serve 140 crore Indians, not a ticket to empower one's own family.

This quality becomes even more striking when compared internationally. Across the globe, many powerful leaders have been criticized for elevating their family members into positions of influence. In countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, politics has often revolved around dynasties where children and siblings inherit power. Even in Western democracies, accusations of nepotism have been levelled against prominent leaders who gave government roles or undue advantages to family members. Such practices dilute meritocracy and often disintegrate public trust.

In contrast, Modi Ji's example shines like a beacon. He has shown that true leadership means rising above personal ties, resisting temptations, and dedicating oneself wholly to the service of the nation. By staying detached from nepotism, he has not only redefined political ethics in India but also set a rare global standard. His life tells us that greatness is not measured by how much one's relatives gain, but by how much a leader can transform the lives of ordinary citizens.

For the younger generation and aspiring leaders, this quality is deeply motivational. It demonstrates that principles and integrity can be more powerful than personal attachments, and that the path of sacrifice-though difficult-is the one that creates history. Following success manta of this quality must always remain in our minds:

"Power is sacred-use it to serve the nation, not to build dynasties.Integrity shines brightest when personal gain is sacrificed for public good.Leadership is not about bloodline-it is about vision, fairness, and service."

13. Donation of personal gifts

As Prime Minister, Modi Ji frequently visits different parts of India and the world, where he receives countless gifts-tokens of love, respect, and goodwill from people and leaders alike. For most individuals, such gifts often become prized possessions, kept as symbols of prestige or personal pride. Human nature tends to cling to them, even when they serve little purpose, because they carry emotional or material value.

But Modi Ji stands apart with a rare, philanthropic outlook. Instead of keeping these gifts, he ensures that they are put to meaningful use. Every gift he receives is donated, and later auctioned, with the proceeds directed towards noble causes such as Namami Gange (the Ganga rejuvenation project), girl child education, and other social welfare initiatives. For instance, in 2019, more than 2,700 gifts-including bows, turbans, and portraits-were auctioned, and the funds were channelled into the Namami Gange mission. In another auction, a badminton racquet autographed by Olympic champion P.V. Sindhu fetched lakhs of rupees, with every rupee dedicated to public welfare.

Even beyond gifts, his simplicity extends to his salary. It is well known that Modi Ji keeps only a nominal portion of his official income for himself and donates a substantial part towards public and charitable purposes. This practice highlights a life rooted in service rather than self-interest-a striking contrast to many global leaders who often accumulate wealth and privileges through their positions.

At a deeper level, this reflects India's timeless civilizational ethos-daan (charity) and tyaag (sacrifice). In our culture, the highest form of leadership has always been associated with giving, not hoarding. Modi Ji embodies this ideal in the modern era, proving that true greatness lies in turning personal gains into instruments of collective progress. By converting simple tokens of affection into life-changing resources for society, he shows us that leadership is about service, sacrifice, and selflessness.Following success mantra must govern our thought process:

"True wealth is not in what we keep, but in what we give away.Charity (daan) and sacrifice (tyaag) are the timeless marks of great leadership.A leader's legacy is written not in possessions, but in contributions to society".

14. Ability to connect with the people

A true leader is not remembered merely for speeches, but for the emotions he evokes and the bonds he creates. Modi Ji has mastered this rare art of connecting with the common people-especially during historic moments such as Independence Day and Republic Day. After delivering powerful addresses from the Red Fort, he doesn't just step away like most leaders; instead, he raises his hand with affection, waves warmly, or interacts with a few people in the crowd. These gestures may appear small on the surface, but they create a deep and lasting impact. The people feel seen, valued, and respected by the highest leader of the land.

This quality is not confined to India alone. During his visits abroad, the Indian diaspora eagerly waits for him, and when he arrives, chants of "Modi, Modi" thunder across stadiums and auditoriums. It is not mere political charisma-it is the outcome of years of consistent humility, emotional connection, and his ability to make every Indian, whether at home or abroad, feel personally connected to his leadership.

For instance, after Independence Day celebrations, Modi Ji often spends time mingling with school children, shaking their hands, and encouraging them. In foreign lands too, whether in Madison Square Garden in the USA or Wembley Stadium in the UK, he speaks to overseas Indians not as a distant Prime Minister, but as a family member celebrating their shared identity. These examples show that his leadership is not built on authority alone, but on empathy and inclusion.

Such actions demonstrate that despite occupying the most powerful office in the country, Modi Ji remains deeply grounded, approachable, and free from arrogance. This is a powerful reminder for all professionals and leaders: humility and human connection elevate respect far more than titles or positions ever can. The following success manta of this quality must be uppermost in mind if we are desirous of occupying a permanent in the hearts of the people:

"Leadership is not about power; it is about connection. Small gestures of humility create lifelong respect. When you touch hearts, people will carry your legacy forward"

15. Architect of motivating youthful students

Examinations in India are more than academic milestones-they are emotional battlegrounds where millions of young minds struggle with expectations, peer pressure, and the fear of failure. Each year, students preparing for Class 10th and 12th Board Exams, or competitive tests like JEE, NEET, and CA Foundation, often find themselves under crushing stress. What they truly need is not just coaching in subjects, but guidance in courage, calmness, and confidence.

Recognizing this, Modi Ji has taken on the unique role of a mentor through his visionary programme "Pariksha Pe Charcha." Here, he steps away from the formal stature of Prime Minister and becomes a friend, philosopher, and guide to the students. Speaking directly to them, he uses anecdotes, humour, and life lessons to dissolve their fears and replace them with determination.

For instance, Modi Ji often reminds students that exams are not the end of life but simply a chapter in the larger book of success. In one memorable session, he compared exams to festivals-something to be celebrated with enthusiasm rather than dreaded with anxiety. In another, he urged parents to avoid living their unfulfilled dreams through their children, a piece of advice that resonated across countless Indian households.

The impact of this initiative is visible in the real stories of students. A Class 12 student from Uttar Pradesh once shared that after listening to Modi Ji's advice on "time management and stress-free study," she began practicing short breaks, meditation, and balanced routines. The result was not just academic success but also improved health and confidence. Similarly, a JEE aspirant from Gujarat admitted that he overcame his exam fear by internalizing Modi Ji's mantra: "Marks are not everything, skills and confidence matter more." These stories are not isolated-they represent millions of young lives infused with fresh energy and hope.

By consistently engaging with students, Modi Ji has redefined what leadership means. He has shown that governance is not only about shaping policies but also about shaping the mindset of the future generation. His approach proves that a true leader builds not just roads and bridges, but also resilience and belief in the hearts of youth. Indeed, Modi Ji stands tall as the Architect of Motivating Young India.

"Celebrate exams as opportunities, not obstacles.Focus on growth, not just grades.Confidence and calmness are the true keys to success."

16. Bowing to democracy, serving the nation with a devoted heart

When Modi Ji entered Parliament for the first time as Prime Minister in May 2014, he did something extraordinary-not for show, but as a statement of principle. He bowed at the steps of Parliament as if entering a temple, signalling to the nation that this is not a place of power, but a sanctum of responsibility. This symbolic act instantly captured the imagination of millions and established a precedent: Parliament is a temple, and serving the people is an act of devotion.

For Modi Ji, democracy is sacred. He views his role not as ruling over citizens but as serving them with humility, integrity, and devotion. Time and again, in his speeches, he has emphasized that Parliament is the "temple of democracy," where every debate, discussion, and decision is a prayer in action-performed for the benefit of the people.

Illustrative Anecdote: The Humble Devotee in Action

During the Parliamentary Budget Session of 2019, a young Member of Parliament from the opposition raised a concern about rural healthcare. Instead of treating it as routine debate, Modi Ji paused his speech, listened attentively, and publicly acknowledged the issue, promising that the government would examine the matter.

This small gesture-seemingly ordinary in procedure-was extraordinary in spirit. It reflected his deep respect for Parliament as an institution and for every voice within it, regardless of political affiliation. By treating the discussion as sacred, Modi Ji demonstrated that democracy is not a tool for power but a temple where every citizen's voice matters.

Examples of Devotion in Governance

(A) Respecting Parliamentary Processes: Even while leading a majority government, Modi Ji consistently respects opposition voices, ensuring debates flourish and decisions are made after listening to all perspectives.

(B) Transparent Governance as Service: Initiatives like Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), Jan Dhan Yojana, and Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana reflect his belief that governance is a sacred duty. By ensuring benefits reach the last person in the queue, he treats administration itself as a temple where every act must be pure and precise.

(C) Inspiring Citizens Beyond Politics: Modi Ji extends this metaphor to society, urging students, workers, and citizens to treat their professions with the same devotion, whether it is a teacher shaping young minds, a doctor healing the sick, or a farmer nurturing the soil.

The deeper message is profound: work approached with sincerity, discipline, and humility transforms not just outcomes, but character and society itself. Modi Ji's actions remind us that true leadership is not about wielding authority, but about reverence for the responsibilities entrusted to us. The following succinct success mantra should always remain in our minds:

"Enter every workplace with the humility of a devotee. Serve others as your highest duty, not as an obligation.When responsibility is treated as sacred, excellence becomes natural".

17. Celebrating humanity beyond politics

One of the finest qualities of Modi Ji's leadership is his ability to rise above political divides and acknowledge goodness wherever he sees it. A shining example of this was witnessed on 9th February 2021 in the Rajya Sabha, when he delivered an emotional farewell speech for Shri Ghulam Nabi Azad on the occasion of his retirement.

Modi Ji did not just speak as the Prime Minister of India; he spoke as a fellow human being touched by another leader's compassion. Recalling the tragic terror attack in Jammu & Kashmir where several Gujarati pilgrims had lost their lives, Modi Ji remembered how Azad, then Chief Minister of the state, had stood firmly by his side. Azad's tears of empathy, Modi Ji noted, were not political-they were the tears of a human being who felt the pain of others as his own.

In his farewell remarks, Modi Ji praised Azad for his dignity, statesmanship, and commitment to national interest. He highlighted that Azad had built friendships across party lines and always conducted himself with grace. The Prime Minister's voice choked with emotion when he said that Parliament would deeply miss Azad's wisdom, experience, and balanced perspective.

Through this moment, Modi Ji reminded the nation that politics may divide parties, but humanity unites leaders. His words reinforced a timeless truth: greatness in leadership lies not in winning debates, but in winning hearts. The following leadership lesson must remain uppermost in our minds:

" True leaders value humanity above political boundaries. Conduct with grace ensures respect that lasts beyond positions of power. What people remember most is not titles, but the kindness shown."

18. Strong supporter of honouring silent Heroes with the People's Padma

The Padma Awards were instituted in 1954 by the Government of India as part of the Republic's civilian honours system.Originally, there were three categories:

• Padma Vibhushan (for exceptional and distinguished service),
• Padma Bhushan (for distinguished service of a high order), and
• Padma Shri (for distinguished service).

The very first Padma Awards were announced on 26 January 1954 (Republic Day). For decades, the Padma Awards carried immense prestige, but too often they were confined to the powerful and the privileged. The spotlight fell on the celebrated, while countless real heroes of India-those working in villages, forests, fields, and forgotten corners-remained in the shadows. Their hands toiled, their hearts served, but their names never reached the nation's stage.

When Modi Ji became Prime Minister, he asked with deep sincerity: "Can an award truly represent India if it forgets the very soul of India-the people who serve silently, far away from power and fame?"With this conviction, Modi Ji began a silent yet historic revolution. He transformed the Padma Awards into what he calls the "People's Padma."The doors of recognition were thrown wide open. Through the MyGov portal, anyone could now nominate anyone-no ministers, no lobbying, no privilege required. A farmer could nominate a healer, a student could nominate a teacher, a villager could nominate a neighbour. The power of recognition moved from the corridors of Delhi to the heart of every Indian.And soon, the nation began to see new faces on the Padma stage-faces that reflected sacrifice, humility, and true service. Following is the illustrative list of Padma Awardees:

Modi Ji's People's Padma tells every Indian: You don't need wealth, power, or fame to be remembered-only a heart that beats for others.We must endeavour to inculcate the following success mantra:

"Do silently what others dream loudly.Serve selflessly, and the nation will serve your name.Fame is momentary, but service is eternal".

19. Turning aspirations into wings with UDAN Scheme

For decades, in our country, the dream of air travel was considered a luxury, reserved only for the rich and powerful. The common man-the farmer, the small trader, the student, the homemaker-would look at an airplane flying high in the sky with a silent wish: "Will I ever get a chance to sit in one?"

This unspoken dream was transformed into reality on 21st October 2016, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagarik) Scheme. It was not just an aviation policy-it was a social revolution in the skies. And when the very first UDAN flight took off from Shimla to Delhi on 27th April 2017, history was made. For the first time, the Aamadmi could confidently say: "Haan, main bhi hawai yatra kar sakta hoon."

This scheme is a shining example of Modi Ji's philosophy of Antyodaya-to empower the last person in the queue. By connecting smaller towns and remote regions to bigger cities, UDAN brought:

• Affordable medical travel for those in need.
• Faster opportunities for students and entrepreneurs.
• Emotional closeness for families separated by distance.
• New economic lifelines for tier-2 and tier-3 cities.

Think about it-what was once a distant dream is now a part of everyday life for lakhs of Indians. This is the real essence of leadership: to transform hope into opportunity, and opportunity into empowerment.UDAN is not just about planes-it is about India rising together, India connecting together, and India progressing together. The following success mantra must be given appropriate weightage in our thoughts and actions:

"Dreams are not meant to remain in the sky-leaders must give them wings.When barriers are removed, aspirations take flight.The true measure of progress is how much we uplift the weakest and the farthest."

20. Conscious of avoiding wasteful expenditure

True leaders do not treat public money as their own; they treat it as a sacred trust. Prime Minister Modi Ji has always stood out as a financially prudent leader who is deeply conscious of avoiding wasteful expenditure. His vision is not just about saving money-it is about channelizing every rupee for the nation's progress.

It is this commitment that inspires bold reforms like One Nation, One Education, One Nation, One Election, and most notably, One Nation, One Tax. The introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) was not merely a fiscal reform, but a historic transformation that simplified the economy, enhanced transparency, and elevated India's image before the world.

What makes Modi Ji unique is his dynamic and self-corrective leadership. He is never hesitant to review his own Government's decisions with fairness and objectivity, and to make reforms where required. This humility combined with courage sets him apart. A shining example is the announcement of NextGen GST Reforms in September 2025, a step that brought much-needed relief to farmers, industrialists, and the common man alike-showing that every section of society matters in his vision of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas.

One touching example of Modi Ji's simplicity is remembered vividly by many. During his earlier days as Chief Minister, and even later as Prime Minister, he has often been seen carrying his own bag while boarding a plane-a small act that spoke volumes about his character. Unlike many leaders who travel with long entourages and excess protocol, Modi Ji set a message through his actions: public office is not about privilege, it is about responsibility. By cutting down on unnecessary ceremonial expenses, extravagant functions, and avoidable luxuries, he showed that financial discipline in personal life can become a guiding philosophy for national life. The following success mantra must rule our conduct:

"True leadership values every rupee as the wealth of the nation.Personal sacrifice creates collective strength.When simplicity guides power, progress becomes unstoppable".

Concluding Remarks of Part II

As we pause at the close of Part II, we see Modi Ji not just as a Prime Minister, but as a teacher, guide, and torchbearer. He teaches us to wear our struggles with pride, to celebrate humanity beyond politics, to rise above nepotism, to give instead of hoard, to connect with people's hearts, to inspire students, to bow before democracy, to honour unsung heroes, to give wings to aspirations, and to guard every rupee of the nation as sacred.

Each quality is a mantra of life-reminding us that true greatness is not in power or position, but in humility, sacrifice, courage, and service. Modi Ji's journey is proof that when vision meets devotion, even the impossible bows before determination.

But friends, this is not the end. The canvas of his leadership is still unfolding. In Part III, we shall discover more-his brilliance as a Great Administrator, his courage as a Bold Leader, and his unwavering spirit that always places the interest of countrymen above all else, clean and strong image maker of India and a leader who values every Indian life-whether at home or in the farthest corners of the world. Be it rescuing nurses trapped in war-torn Iraq, evacuating students from Ukraine, or bringing back citizens stranded during the pandemic etc.

Stay tuned, stay inspired, and wait with eagerness-for the next chapter will reveal even deeper truths of a leader who has turned his life into a message, and his message into a movement. The best lessons of Modi Ji's leadership are yet to come!