Surat/Patna, Nov 15 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi's profound connection with the state—shaped by moments of cultural unity and unwavering support—serves as a significant backdrop to the NDA's decisive mandate. The recent verdict of the Bihar Assembly elections transcends mere politics; it is a heartfelt acknowledgment of PM Modi's long-standing tribute to Bihar's strength and potential.

During an emotional address in Surat, Gujarat—one of his most memorable honors for the state—PM Modi implored, “Let the whole nation pledge to restore Bihar's pride and dignity.” This rallying cry, delivered in front of a spirited gathering of Bihari community members, connected the past with the present, reminding everyone of how Bihar's “lost glory” is being reclaimed.

Did you know? Bihar’s centennial celebration, the Bihar Shatabdi in 2012, extended its pride beyond its borders. The celebration was marked in Surat, where then-Chief Minister Modi recognized 100 individuals from Bihar whose contributions uplifted the state in numerous ways. In the same city that hosted the historic Bihar-Jharkhand Samaj Trust event on May 6, 2012, PM Modi revisited those glorious moments, reflecting on the unity between Bihar and Gujarat.

In a video shared on his official X account (@narendramodi)—part of the Modi Archive chronicling his unwavering support for the state—he celebrated Bihar’s talents, applauded their achievements, and instilled pride in their heritage.

“Narendra Modi consistently uplifted Bihar’s achievers on a significant platform,” the post remarked, highlighting a bond that was reciprocated by Bihar through its electoral response.

Exploring the Modi Archive on X unveils a plethora of such endorsements. Posts from 2012 onward illustrate PM Modi as Bihar's most ardent supporter, from inaugurating the Shatabdi Smriti Stambh in Patna in July 2022 to virtual rallies that amplified local voices. However, his 2012 speech in Surat remains a defining moment, where he addressed the contradiction of Bihar's global recognition against its domestic defamation.

“Many IAS officers, IPS officers, scientists, and intellectuals hail from Bihar,” the then Chief Minister Modi passionately stated, “Yet, Bihar was unjustly defamed.”

He condemned a narrative that overshadowed the state’s contributions—ranging from the intellectual vigor behind India’s civil services to the academic excellence fueling various endeavors. This “deliberate defamation” had undermined Bihar's self-esteem. Nevertheless, then CM Modi turned the tide: “Wherever you go in the world, you will see Bihar's talent shining brightly.”

He reminisced about a Bihari whose “melodious language” made a lasting impression, evoking the lyrical beauty of Bhojpuri and Maithili that resonates across distances. “That individual undoubtedly made a positive impact on me,” he expressed. The video from the Surat event, embedded in the X post, captures profound emotions associated with this ethos.

Lasting over three minutes, it intricately combines archival footage from 2012, showcasing then CM Modi addressing an enthusiastic crowd. Subtitles convey his passion: “Bihar ke liye ham achha bolna shuru karenge to Bihar ka jo khoya hua atmavishwas hai vah vapas aa sakega” (If we start speaking positively about Bihar, its lost self-confidence will return).

He emphasized the contributions of Bihari migrants in Gujarat's textile industries and diamond exchange, urging them to channel their skills back home. The narrative connects to the present: “From the streets of Surat to the halls of Patna, our unity has yielded results. Bihar's youth, once maligned, now shape their own destiny.”

The video concludes on an uplifting note, with PM Modi leading a chant for Bihar Diwas—March 22, the date in 1912 when Bihar emerged from Bengal’s shadow, a tradition furthered by Nitish Kumar in 2010. This isn't just nostalgia; it's an emotional transformation turning electoral math into heartfelt connections.

The NDA's 46.6% vote share in the recently concluded elections—a significant increase from 2020—reflects a wave of support among migrants and their families, who ascribe their restored dignity to PM Modi's initiatives. In Seemanchal's closely contested regions, where RJD edged out BJP in several seats, the underlying sentiment was evident: voters sought not just employment but justice against that “deliberate defamation.”

Tejashwi Yadav's MGB, with 37.9% of the votes and 25 seats, was unable to counter the NDA's blend of welfare initiatives (such as makhana boards for Dalit farmers) and inclusive vision. As Nitish Kumar prepares for his fifth swearing-in, PM Modi's commitment resonates even louder.

In the Modi Archive, this chapter contributes another vivid entry; from the shadows of defamation to the dawn of dignity, scripted by a leader who recognized Bihar's brilliance when others overlooked it.