Prime Minister Narendra Modi's arrival in Varanasi on Tuesday marked a significant moment as he prepared to file his nomination papers for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. His journey through the city was met with enthusiastic greetings from the people, culminating in his offering of prayers at the sacred Dasaswamedh Ghat on the banks of the River Ganges.
In an exclusive interview with India Today at the Dasaswamedh Ghat, Prime Minister Modi expressed his profound connection to Varanasi, attributing it to an invitation from 'Ma Ganga' (Mother Ganges). The Prime Minister's emotions were evident as he acknowledged the city's transformative influence on him, making him feel like a true 'Banarasiya' (resident of Varanasi).
Earlier in the day, the Prime Minister had emphasized his unparalleled bond with Kashi (another name for Varanasi). Through a video post on the social media platform 'X,' Prime Minister Modi shared his love for Kashi and the evolution of his relationship with the River Ganges over the years. The video showcased the Prime Minister performing religious rituals and participating in roadshows during his frequent visits to the city.
When I first visited Kashi in 2014, I felt an inexplicable call from 'Ma Ganga.' Today, after a decade of my association with Kashi, I can confidently say, 'Aaj Ma Ganga ne mujhe god le liya hai' (today Ma Ganga has embraced me), Prime Minister Modi expressed in the video.
Ten years have elapsed, and my bond with Kashi has only intensified. I now lovingly refer to it as 'my Kashi.' I share an unbreakable mother-son relationship with Kashi, an emotional Prime Minister Modi further added.
Ours is a democratic system, and I will always seek the blessings of the people. However, my relationship with Kashi transcends these political boundaries, he asserted.
Prime Minister Modi is seeking a third consecutive term as Varanasi's representative, having first contested from the constituency as the BJP's prime ministerial candidate in 2014. Varanasi will witness polling in the seventh and final phase of the Lok Sabha election on June 1.
On Monday, Prime Minister Modi captivated Varanasi with a grand roadshow, vowing to dedicate himself even more fervently to the city's welfare during his potential third term. Amidst a vibrant sea of saffron, Modi's procession covered six kilometers before culminating at the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple, where he offered prayers.
The Prime Minister expressed his overwhelming gratitude for the city's warmth and affection. Residents from diverse communities, such as Marathi, Gujarati, Bengali, Maheshwari, Marwari, Tamil, and Punjabi, accorded Modi a joyous welcome at designated points along the roadshow's route.
Following a two-hour journey that commenced at Malviya Chauraha in Varanasi's Lanka area, the Prime Minister reached the Kashi Vishwanath Temple to offer his devotions.
Prime Minister Modi shared a video of the roadshow on 'X,' expressing, Kashi holds a special place in my heart... The warmth and love of the people here are truly incredible.
