Synopsis
In a moving moment in Yamunanagar, Haryana, Prime Minister Modi fulfilled a 14-year vow of Rampal Kashyap, a humble laborer. This story highlights the profound connection and empathy that can exist between a leader and a common citizen, illustrating the true essence of leadership.Key Takeaways
- Prime Minister Modi honored a 14-year vow made by Rampal Kashyap.
- The story highlights the deep faith and commitment of ordinary individuals.
- Modi's gesture exemplifies true leadership and empathy.
- Rampal’s journey showcases the power of belief and perseverance.
- The moment reflects the importance of compassion in leadership.
New Delhi, April 14 (NationPress) In a nation of more than a billion individuals, certain narratives shine not due to their scale, but because of their profound humanity. One such narrative emerged in Yamunanagar, Haryana on Monday -- a moment that evoked tears from many, not only because of its emotional depth but also due to the subtle greatness it revealed in Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Rampal Kashyap, a humble daily-wage laborer from Kangthali village in Kaithal, Haryana, was not someone the world would have noticed -- until now. Long before Modi assumed the office of Prime Minister, Rampal made a promise in 2012. His vow was to remain barefoot until Modi became Prime Minister and personally requested him to wear shoes again.
What began as a simple commitment turned into a remarkable journey of resilience. For 14 years, through scorching summers, bitter winters, and torrential rains, Rampal walked barefoot -- not out of superstition, but out of profound faith. "It wasn’t merely a promise. It was a prayer," Rampal expressed, with tears welling in his eyes. "Every step I took reminded me of the leader I believed in. I knew I would meet him one day."
That day eventually arrived, but not without assistance. Although Modi became Prime Minister in 2014 and again in 2019, Rampal did not feel his vow was fulfilled. For him, the moment would only be complete when Modi himself asked him to wear shoes. That moment seemed far off -- until someone took action.
Former MLA from Guhla, Kulwant Bazigar, learned about Rampal’s extraordinary journey and was touched. Recognizing the sincerity of Rampal’s devotion, Bazigar wrote a letter directly to Prime Minister Modi on April 10, 2025, outlining Rampal’s 14-year-long vow and requesting a meeting.
In a display of sensitivity and humility, Modi’s office responded promptly. Rampal was invited as a special guest to PM Modi’s rally in Yamunanagar. It was here, surrounded by a multitude of supporters and layers of security, that a man who had walked barefoot for 14 years stood face-to-face with the leader he revered from a distance.
As Rampal approached, PM Modi noticed him immediately. "Arre bhai, aapne aisa kyun kar diya?" he gently inquired. Overcome with emotion, Rampal replied, "I had vowed to remain barefoot until you became PM and personally asked me to wear shoes."
What transpired next moved everyone present. PM Modi took Rampal’s hand, seated him beside him on a sofa, and personally helped him wear shoes -- fulfilling a 14-year-old vow with the humility of a saint.
"Today, we are putting shoes on you. But promise me -- never do something like this again. We should not bring suffering upon ourselves. Use your energy for good work, not pain," PM Modi said, visibly touched.
It was pure humanity, the kind that resonates louder than words. Rampal, overwhelmed, whispered, "This feels like seeing God Himself. My dream has come true. For 14 years, I waited for this. Today, He came to me."
Later, the Prime Minister expressed his thoughts on X: At today's public meeting in Yamunanagar, I met Shri Rampal Kashyap Ji from Kaithal. He had taken a vow 14 years ago - that he would only wear footwear after I became PM and he got to meet me. I am humbled by people like Rampal Ji and also accept their affection, but I want to request everyone who takes up such vows - I cherish your love...please focus on something that is linked to social work and nation building!
The beauty of the moment lay not only in the realization of Rampal’s dream -- but in how the Prime Minister met that devotion with equal grace. This wasn’t about the grandeur of power, but the quiet strength of character. Modi could have waved, nodded, or acknowledged the gesture from afar. Instead, he honored a common man’s faith and elevated it with compassion.
Rampal’s sister-in-law, Sunita, expressed with pride, "He lived this vow. It wasn’t about faith in a person -- it was about commitment to belief itself." As Rampal departed from there -- this time wearing shoes -- he left behind a trail of inspiration. "If the faith is pure and the intent is strong," he stated, "blessings will surely come, no matter how long it takes."
By honoring a humble man’s dedication, PM Modi didn’t just fulfill a vow -- he showcased the essence of a leader who listens, empathizes, and uplifts. And that, perhaps, is the true embodiment of greatness.
