Modi Katha launched on PM Modi's 76th birthday, unveils his human side
Synopsis
On PM Modi's 76th birthday, author Harish Chandra Burnwal launched 'Modi Katha' at the IGNCA — a collection of 10 stories designed to humanise a leader the public knows primarily through politics. The book's central argument: beyond 25 years of power, there is a personal, introspective Modi that has rarely been told.
Key Takeaways
Author Harish Chandra Burnwal launched 'Modi Katha' on 17 September 2026 , PM Modi's 76th birthday .
The book was released at the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) , New Delhi.
It contains 10 stories based on various phases of PM Modi's life, focusing on his human side.
Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal attended the launch event.
Burnwal highlighted Modi's positivity, commitment to national interest, and ability to adapt to Gen Z as key themes.
Author Harish Chandra Burnwal launched his book 'Modi Katha' in New Delhi on 17 September 2026, coinciding with the 76th birthday of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The book, released at the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), aims to present the lesser-known human dimension of the Prime Minister beyond his well-documented political identity.
What the Book Is About
Burnwal described the motivation behind the work as a deliberate effort to go beyond Modi's political persona. 'People are familiar with Prime Minister Modi's political personality, as he has been at the helm of power for the past 25 years. But he also has a human side, and an attempt has been made to highlight that in 'Modi Katha',' the author said.
According to Burnwal, the book comprises 10 stories drawn from various phases of the Prime Minister's life. Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, who attended the launch event, confirmed this, describing it as 'a grand programme' hosted at the IGNCA.
Key Themes Burnwal Highlights
The author outlined what he considers the defining qualities of Modi's character. Chief among them, according to Burnwal, is an unwavering positive outlook even in adversity. 'If you want to find positivity in the worst possible moment of your life, when there is extreme despair, just look towards the Prime Minister,' he said.
Burnwal also pointed to two other pillars he believes define Modi — the primacy of national interest and a deep commitment to Sanatan culture. 'There is absolutely no ambiguity about this. Second is his commitment to his Sanatan culture, his vision and his conception of it, is a core issue. These are two very significant things,' he noted.
Modi and Generation Z
One of the more unusual observations in Burnwal's account concerns Modi's engagement with younger audiences. The author said that despite his age, the Prime Minister continuously adapts to connect with Gen Z. 'PM Modi keeps changing himself for Gen Z, this is a big thing at his age,' Burnwal remarked, adding that the lesson of 'restraint, dedication and commitment' was central to the book's message.
Birthday Wishes and the Launch Event
The book launch doubled as a birthday tribute, with Burnwal extending personal wishes to the Prime Minister. 'It is our good fortune that the country got someone like him. He became Prime Minister, because of which the country received a new direction,' the author said. The event at the IGNCA drew political figures alongside literary attendees, underlining the occasion's dual character as both a cultural and political moment.
The launch of 'Modi Katha' adds to a growing body of biographical and hagiographic literature centred on the Prime Minister, reflecting sustained public and political interest in his life story ahead of what remains an active term in office.
Point of View
Held at a prestigious national institution, and attended by a Union Minister. Biographical literature around sitting Prime Ministers in India has historically blurred the line between biography and advocacy, and this book, by its author's own description, is explicitly sympathetic in framing. What is notable is the strategic emphasis on 'Gen Z connection' and emotional accessibility at a time when the BJP is working to consolidate youth support. The cultural apparatus around Modi's image continues to expand well beyond electoral cycles.
NationPress
17 Sept 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 'Modi Katha' about?
'Modi Katha' is a book by author Harish Chandra Burnwal comprising 10 stories from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's life, focused on presenting his human and personal side rather than his political record. It was launched on Modi's 76th birthday on 17 September 2026 at the IGNCA in New Delhi.
Who launched the book 'Modi Katha' and where?
The book was launched by its author, Harish Chandra Burnwal, at the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) in New Delhi on 17 September 2026. Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal was among the prominent attendees at the event.
What are the key themes Harish Chandra Burnwal highlights in 'Modi Katha'?
Burnwal highlights three principal themes: PM Modi's positive outlook even in adversity, his unwavering commitment to national interest, and his connection to Sanatan culture. The author also underscores Modi's ability to adapt his communication style for the Gen Z generation.
Why was 'Modi Katha' launched on 17 September?
17 September is the 76th birthday of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and the launch was timed as a tribute to mark the occasion. The event combined literary and political elements, with ministers and cultural figures in attendance.
How many stories does 'Modi Katha' contain?
'Modi Katha' contains 10 stories based on PM Modi's life, as confirmed by Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal at the launch event. Each story is drawn from different phases of the Prime Minister's personal and public journey.
