My view on NaMo

By Samikshaa V Baaliyan

MY VIEW ON NAMO

Today, my heart resonates with the rhythm of the national anthem, echoing the pride that comes with being an Indian, a melody that defines my identity. With a sense of pride and a touch of confidence, I announce my origin as  a citizen of India whenever I travel abroad. I find immense joy in conversing with my family, friends, and colleagues in my mother tongue (Hindi), reserving English for business or situations where linguistic bridges need to be built.   

In my formative years, the landscape of my surroundings was markedly different. Back then, the air seemed heavy with the weight of grievances — poverty, population, unemployment, crime, and the list of issues reiterated in every conversation. In the innocence of my youth, devoid of my own beliefs, I found myself swept in a current of collective dissatisfaction. During those times, it felt as if I had inadvertently landed in a nation drowning in its challenges, and the notion that perhaps I was born in the wrong country took root in my impressionable mind.  Then, I entered the era of NAMO, and a seismic shift unfolded in my perspective. While the specifics of his actions may elude my grasp, there's an undeniable transformation that has elevated India to a position of pride on the global stage. The intricacies of what sets him apart from his predecessors or other political figures remain a bit elusive to me, but the impact is unmistakable, imprinting a sense of national pride on India's present-day map.  

While the challenges of population, poverty, and more persist, it's the grand vision painted by him that casts a new light on our national narrative. The strength of our nation, as projected to the world under his leadership, brings a transformative perspective, making the familiar challenges appear against the backdrop of a larger, more resolute picture.  

In the course of life, attempting to shift the perspectives of our close ones often proves a challenging endeavor, even in face-to-face conversations. Yet, there exists a rarity — a phenomenon so extraordinary that a person, unknown to me and never having engaged in direct conversation, has managed to alter my mindset. It feels akin to a miracle, an event that occurs perhaps once in a century, announcing the birth of a personality with the power to evoke profound change.  

While previous prime ministers and politicians seemed to be immersed in addressing commonplace issues, what set him apart was his strategic vision for nation-building. His emphasis on fostering a robust nation, stemming brain drain, and creating opportunities wielded a transformative power, organically alleviating other challenges. What distinguishes him is not the promise of freebies, but a commitment to empowering individuals, fostering strength, and generating ample opportunities for self-reliance. He stands as a living example, epitomizing the capability to achieve anything through strength and resilience.  

Amidst the challenges of Covid-19, I found myself unexpectedly stranded in Sri Lanka. Surprisingly, there was no panic or urgency to rush back to my home country. I chose patience, biding my time, and after a span of three months, I safely returned. Reflecting on those moments, I can't help but shudder at the thought of how different things might have been without him at the helm. A small keepsake from the return flight serves as a constant reminder of the gratitude I hold for the safe journey back.  

In the realm of advertising, the norm has been to enlist glamorous models and actors with sizable fan bases to elevate brand positioning. It's a departure from the usual to witness a politician, especially one with an extraordinary fan following, such as in the case of Lakshadweep. This unique phenomenon speaks volumes about the exceptional reach and influence wielded by him, surpassing even that of well-known actors. Impressed by his visionary leadership, compelling personality, and his adept management of the nation, my admiration has led me to a singular choice on LinkedIn. For almost two years now, the only profile I follow is that of Mr. Narendra Modi. Recognizing his unparalleled stature, I made a conscious decision to unfollow all others, acknowledging that there's no comparison to his level of influence and impact.  

I'm not one to be starstruck by celebrities or renowned personalities, having encountered and interacted with a few over time without feeling any particular thrill. However, meeting him would be an exception—an encounter that would undoubtedly etch itself into the fabric of my memories, creating a day I would cherish for the rest of my life.  

As a 39-year-old woman entrepreneur overseeing two distinct businesses, I find myself at a point where my own perspectives shape my understanding of the world. Gratitude fills me as I reflect on being born in a country symbolized by figure whose representation holds profound significance in my journey, by the persona of NAMO.