How Do Sports Icons Celebrate PM Modi's Birthday?

New Delhi, Sep 17 (NationPress) Celebrating the 75th birthday of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Indian sports community came together to convey heartfelt messages to the esteemed leader.

Born on September 17, 1950 in Vadnagar, a quaint town in North Gujarat's Mehsana district, PM Modi has inspired countless individuals.

Indian chess maestro Viswanathan Anand reminisced about a moment from the national championships held in Gujarat, where PM Modi celebrated a simple joy of his life.

"Reflecting on my chess journey, some moments truly resonate — not just from the chessboard, but in life. One such instance was during the National Championship in Ahmedabad. I had a cherished ritual of indulging in a Gujarati Thali. I never anticipated that PM Modi would remember this detail of my life and celebrate it with me," Anand recounted on X.

"I vividly remember when, in a casual discussion, I shared my love for Gujarati Thalis with Narendra Modi ji. His immediate response was a smile, followed by, 'Oh, okay, then let’s go.' He took me to the State Guest House, where we shared a delightful Gujarati Thali together. He even expressed, 'I want to give you the best Thali you can remember.' This humble act reminded me that true leaders connect with others through simple moments, not just grand visions.

"What constantly inspires me is the balance he maintains. On one hand, he is efficient, disciplined, and deeply professional, with his entire team functioning like clockwork. On the other hand, he is approachable, warm, and light-hearted, someone who can inject humor into conversations and make you feel at ease. This rare combination of vision and humanity makes him truly exceptional.

"I also witnessed his innovative spirit within the chess community. It was PM Modi ji who proposed that the Chess Olympiad, although distinct from the Olympics, should feature its own torch relay. This groundbreaking idea led to the introduction of a torch ceremony at the Chess Olympiad, which has become a cherished tradition embraced by the global chess community. Recently, chess leaders from around the world gathered in Delhi for this legacy event, a testament to his vision.

"To me, @NarendraModi ji is not merely the leader of India, but a source of inspiration who engages both heart and mind. Through a simple Gujarati meal or a global chess tradition, he imparts profound lessons of humility, innovation, and warmth," the post concluded.

Former cricketer Suresh Raina also extended his wishes, stating, "Warm wishes to our Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji on his birthday. Under your leadership, India has made significant strides in development, global recognition, and national unity. May your vision continue to steer our nation toward greater progress and prosperity," Raina shared on Instagram.

Ex-cricketer Venkatesh Prasad added, "Many more happy returns of the day to our Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji. Your tireless energy and dedication to the nation inspire millions, including me. Wishing you happiness, health, and many more years of serving India."

Indian wrestler Babita Phogat expressed, "Heartfelt birthday congratulations to the world's most beloved leader, the champion of a developed India, and the inspiration for countless BJP workers committed to serving Mother India, the Honorable Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji.

"You have always provided guidance, inspiration, and affection like a father in the service of the nation. I pray that you live to be a hundred, enjoy a long life, and remain in good health."

Former Indian cricket star Yuvraj Singh wished, "Wishing Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji a very Happy Birthday. May you continue to lead the nation with great vision and may the upcoming year bring you continued good health and success."