New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has described former President Ram Nath Kovind’s autobiography, “Triumph of the Indian Republic: My Life, My Struggles,” as much more than the story of an individual’s life. He said the book reflects the journey of Indian democracy, social harmony and the transformation of struggle into success. He expressed confidence that the autobiography would become an important source of inspiration for Indian society and future generations.
Former President Ram Nath Kovind, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Savita Kovind and several other dignitaries attended the book launch event. Prime Minister Modi recalled his long association with Kovind and said he had the opportunity to receive his guidance and personal affection during his tenure as President. Having closely observed his personality and functioning, Modi said he was confident that Kovind’s life story would inspire generations to come.
Referring to the title of the autobiography, the Prime Minister said that while the book describes Kovind’s personal life and struggles, it also presents his achievements as a reflection of the success of the Indian Republic. He noted that Kovind has not viewed his accomplishments as his own alone, but has acknowledged society as a participant in his journey. According to Modi, this reflects the strength of Indian values and traditions.
The Prime Minister highlighted the difficult circumstances of Kovind’s childhood. Born into an ordinary family in Kanpur Dehat, Kovind experienced a tragic incident at a very young age when a fire broke out at his home and his mother lost her life. Modi said that losing one’s mother at such a tender age would have been an extremely painful experience. Despite these hardships, Kovind did not allow circumstances to defeat him. A woman from the neighbourhood helped in his upbringing, giving him an early experience of the strength of community support and social solidarity.
Modi said that Kovind made education the foundation for moving ahead in life. Despite limited resources, he never allowed financial difficulties to become an obstacle. Through hard work, determination and merit, he eventually rose to occupy the country’s highest constitutional office.
The Prime Minister also praised Kovind’s simplicity and humility during his tenure as President. Recalling his meetings with him at Rashtrapati Bhavan, Modi said Kovind often displayed warmth beyond the formalities of protocol and would personally accompany the Prime Minister to his vehicle while bidding him farewell.
Modi also recalled Kovind’s visit to his native village, Paraunkh, saying that his gesture of seeking the blessings of his teachers and bowing before the soil of his village reflected deep-rooted Indian values and संस्कार.
The Prime Minister said that great social reformers and nation-builders had envisioned an India where a person from a poor or disadvantaged background could rise to the highest constitutional position. Kovind’s life, he said, is a powerful example of that vision becoming a reality.
Modi urged young people not to be discouraged by difficulties but to move forward with hard work, confidence and determination. He said Kovind’s autobiography could serve as an important source of motivation for the younger generation.
The Prime Minister also referred to Kovind’s experiences with Morarji Desai, his political and social journey, and the responsibilities he discharged as Governor and President. He noted that even after leaving the office of President, Kovind has remained actively engaged in public life and has contributed to important national discussions, including the issue of ‘One Nation, One Election.’
Concluding his remarks, Prime Minister Modi encouraged young people to develop the habit of reading autobiographies. He said that in an era dominated by social media and the search for shortcuts, young people should understand that there is no easy route to lasting success. Autobiographies provide an opportunity to understand history closely and learn from the struggles and experiences of those who have shaped the nation.
He expressed hope that Ram Nath Kovind’s life journey would continue to inspire future generations to embrace hard work, honesty, public service and nation-building.