New Delhi, Aug 12: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday urged young people to read autobiographies and draw lessons from the struggles and experiences of others, saying that in the “era of reels”, they should remember that “shortcut will cut you short”.
Speaking at the launch of former President Ram Nath Kovind’s autobiography, Triumph of the Indian Republic: My Life, My Struggles, Modi said Kovind’s journey demonstrated how determination and perseverance could help overcome adversity and reach the country’s highest constitutional office.
Modi said autobiographies provide an opportunity to understand a particular period through the experiences of those who lived through it and urged the youth to make reading such works a habit.
“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,” he said.
The Prime Minister described Kovind’s autobiography as a “heritage for Indian democracy”, saying the younger generation had much to learn from his life and struggles.
“We need many more young people who would be like Kovind in future; people who are not defeated by circumstances, but possess the determination to overcome every challenge,” Modi said.
He also praised Kovind for continuing his public engagement after completing his presidential term. Modi noted his involvement in the ‘One Nation, One Election’ initiative, saying it could “open a new chapter in Indian democracy”.
Modi said Kovind’s contribution to the issue reflected his continued commitment to strengthening the country’s democratic institutions.
Recalling Kovind’s childhood, the Prime Minister said the former President lost his mother in a fire when she attempted to save household belongings. He said the tragedy could have broken Kovind but instead strengthened his resolve, while his father played an important role in instilling strong values in him.
Modi also recalled his interactions with Kovind during his tenure at Rashtrapati Bhavan, describing their conversations as warm and personal despite the formalities of presidential protocol.
Kovind, recalling his childhood in a village in Uttar Pradesh’s Kanpur Dehat, spoke about the hardships his family faced and the values of compassion and mutual support he learned from villagers.
He said his experiences had shaped his understanding of the challenges faced by ordinary people and highlighted government housing initiatives that have provided millions of poor families with permanent homes and greater dignity.
Kovind also recalled the influence of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and spoke about his interactions with Modi, particularly his ability to connect with ordinary party workers.
He said he associated himself with the BJP because he believed the party placed the nation above considerations of dynasty and community.
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, who attended the event, described Kovind as a “living sketch” of determination and praised his contribution to strengthening India’s diplomatic relations.
Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and several Union ministers were also present at the book launch.
