Prime Minister Narendra Modi became emotional while recalling his late mother during the release of former President Ram Nath Kovind’s autobiography Triumph of the Indian Republic: My Life, My Struggles at Vigyan Bhavan in New Delhi on Wednesday.
Speaking about Kovind’s childhood, PM Modi recounted a tragic incident described in the autobiography in which his mother lost her life in a house fire in Kanpur Dehat while attempting to save essential household belongings.
“Imagine, at such a young age, to lose one’s mother in this way, how painful it must have been,” PM Modi said, reflecting on the tragedy that Kovind experienced during his childhood.
The Prime Minister said that although the incident could have broken Kovind, it instead strengthened his resolve. He noted that after the tragedy, a neighbouring woman helped in Kovind’s upbringing, giving him an early understanding of the importance of social unity and harmony.
“This painful incident could have broken anyone, but it made Kovind ji stronger,” PM Modi said, adding that the experience helped shape Kovind’s understanding of the strength of societal unity and harmony.
PM Modi also highlighted the important role played by Kovind’s father in raising the family and instilling values in his children. He said Kovind considers his father his hero because of the way he managed the family and guided his children following the loss of their mother.
Drawing a personal parallel, PM Modi recalled his own mother and said he was fortunate that she lived beyond 100 years and blessed him.
“I was fortunate that my mother lived beyond 100 years and blessed me. Even so, I still feel her absence,” the Prime Minister said.
PM Modi said Kovind’s life, as reflected in the autobiography and its title, represents a journey of struggle, resilience and achievement. Born into an ordinary family in Kanpur Dehat, Kovind went on to become the President of India, with his early hardships playing an important role in shaping his character and outlook towards society.
