Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s conversation with MIT scientist and AI researcher Lex Fridman was released on Sunday as part of the Lex Fridman Podcast #460. During the discussion, PM Modi shared insights on various topics, including the influence of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Hindu nationalism, and his personal journey.
PM Modi on Joining RSS
When asked about his association with the RSS, PM Modi recalled his early years, saying,
“In our village, there was a branch of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh where we played sports and sang patriotic songs. Something about those songs touched me deeply—they stirred something inside me. That’s how I eventually became part of the RSS.”
The Influence of RSS on Modi’s Life
Reflecting on the RSS’s teachings, PM Modi highlighted its emphasis on purpose-driven action.
“One of the core values instilled in us at RSS was that whatever you do, do it with a purpose. If you study, do it with the aim of contributing to the nation. If you exercise, do it to strengthen your body for service to society. Today, RSS is a massive organization nearing its 100th anniversary. Understanding its work requires effort, as it functions with discipline and dedication, often away from mainstream attention.”
He further elaborated on the RSS’s role in shaping societal values:
“Alongside education, values are prioritized so that students remain grounded and develop skills to avoid becoming a burden on society. Whether it’s supporting women, youth, or laborers, the RSS has played a significant role in shaping lives.”
Finding Life’s Purpose
PM Modi described his personal growth through the RSS and spiritual teachings, saying,
“I feel blessed to have gained life’s purpose from such a sacred organization. Volunteers in the RSS follow their own interests and strengths while contributing to society. Over the past century, the RSS has worked with the devotion of a seeker. My time in the RSS provided me with discipline and a clear sense of purpose. Later, my experiences with saints further deepened my spiritual grounding.”
Lex Fridman’s Perspective
Lex Fridman, known for his in-depth discussions on his podcast, has interviewed notable figures such as US President Donald Trump, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Argentina’s President Javier Milei, as well as business leaders like Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, and Jeff Bezos.
Ahead of the podcast’s release, Fridman expressed his enthusiasm on social media, writing,
“I had an epic 3-hour podcast conversation with @narendramodi, Prime Minister of India. It was one of the most powerful conversations of my life. It’ll be out tomorrow.”
PM Modi responded, calling it a “fascinating conversation” and encouraging listeners to tune in.
“It was indeed a fascinating conversation with @lexfridman, covering diverse topics, including reminiscing about my childhood, my years in the Himalayas, and my journey into public life,” he wrote on X.
In February, Fridman had previously described PM Modi as “one of the most fascinating human beings I have ever studied.”
