PM Modi Opens Up About US Visa Denial: A Personal Challenge That Propelled India Forward

In a thought-provoking conversation with Nikhil Kamath, co-founder of Zerodha, Prime Minister Narendra Modi opened up about one of the most challenging and painful moments of his life—the United States’ refusal to grant him a visa. The poignant discussion shed light on how this incident became a driving force in shaping PM Modi’s vision for India’s global future.

A Painful Chapter in PM Modi’s Journey

When asked about his most painful experience, PM Modi candidly recounted the US visa denial. “Visiting America as a private individual was not significant for me,” he began. “But as the Chief Minister of Gujarat, leading a democratically elected government, the refusal felt like an insult to the government and the country itself.”

PM Modi explained that the US officials’ decision was based on misinformation propagated by certain individuals. Despite the emotional toll, he resolved to rise above it. “I envisioned a day when people would queue for Indian visas,” he said, demonstrating his unwavering belief in India’s potential.

India’s Time Has Come

Reflecting on the incident, PM Modi emphasized his forward-thinking approach. “That was a difficult time, but I always maintained my resolution. Today, I see that India’s time has arrived,” he said with pride.

The Prime Minister highlighted how India’s image has transformed globally since then. “Now, when I visit other countries, I see a different perspective on India. They see opportunities for business, innovation, and collaboration,” he said.

The 2002 Godhra Incident and Its Aftermath

During the podcast, PM Modi also recalled the tragic events surrounding the Godhra train burning in 2002, just days after he was elected as an MLA. “It was a heartbreaking scene. There were bodies everywhere. But as a leader, I had to rise above my emotions,” he said.

The incident, followed by communal riots in Gujarat, led to widespread criticism and allegations against Modi’s leadership. These allegations formed the basis of the US visa denial. However, after a Supreme Court-monitored investigation cleared him of any wrongdoing, the narrative began to shift. When Modi assumed office as Prime Minister in 2014, the US reinstated his visa, marking a significant turning point.

A Vision for the Future

PM Modi attributed his resilience and success to three guiding principles he embraced early in his leadership. “I vowed to leave no stone unturned in my efforts, never to do anything for personal gain, and to acknowledge my humanity—understanding that mistakes may happen, but never with bad intentions,” he said.

His mantra of selfless service and integrity continues to resonate with his vision for India. “Today, I feel immense pride when I witness the world recognizing India’s potential. It’s not just about me; it’s about the collective strength of our people,” he added.

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