Cricket fraternity greets PM Modi on 76th birthday, hails his 'tireless dedication'
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Prime Minister Narendra Modi turned 76 on 17 September 2026, and India's cricket fraternity marked the occasion with a wave of warm wishes, saluting his decades of public service and what several former players described as his 'tireless dedication' to the nation. The tributes arrived from across the sport — from batting legends to coaches and administrators.
Sachin, Harbhajan Lead the Wishes
Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar posted on X: 'Wishing a very Happy Birthday to Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji. Your tireless dedication to the nation continues to inspire us all. Praying for your long life, good health, and happiness as you guide India to new heights.'
Former spinner Harbhajan Singh offered an extended tribute, writing: 'For many years, your life has been devoted to public service, guided by a deep sense of duty and dedication to our nation. Your perseverance, commitment, and tireless work for the people are truly inspiring... May the years ahead bring you immense joy and fulfilment.'
Gambhir, Mithali and Other Cricketers Speak Up
India men's cricket head coach Gautam Gambhir said: 'Wishing health and happiness for our Hon'ble PM Shri Narendra Modi Ji. May you continue to lead India towards a glorious future.'
Former women's cricket captain Mithali Raj posted on X: 'I have personally been fortunate to receive your encouragement and support at different stages of my journey, and your words have always been a source of motivation.'
Former pace bowler Venkatesh Prasad highlighted the Prime Minister's 'energy, discipline and unwavering commitment to the nation', while Yuvraj Singh noted that his 'leadership continues to shape India's journey towards a stronger and more progressive future.' Batting great VV Laxman wrote that Modi 'continues to inspire millions through your dedication and service to our nation.'
Key Milestones: A PM Born in Free India
Modi was born on 17 September 1950 in Vadnagar, Gujarat — three years after India's Independence — making him the first Prime Minister of India to have been born in independent India. October 2026 will mark the completion of 25 years of his uninterrupted public service.
He is also the country's longest-serving non-Congress Prime Minister, having steered the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to victories in three consecutive general elections. Modi began his public life as a member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) before rising through BJP's organisational ranks.
What the Milestone Represents
The outpouring from cricketers — many of whom have interacted with Modi through national sports initiatives and felicitation ceremonies — underscores the Prime Minister's visibility beyond conventional political circles. As India's most-followed sports fraternity joins the chorus, the birthday coverage reflects a broader pattern of public figures aligning their social media activity with the political moment. The 25-year public service milestone in October is likely to occasion a fresh round of programmes and institutional acknowledgements.