Lex Fridman Modi Podcast: PM Modi’s In-Depth Podcast with Lex Fridman and views on his early life, spirituality, politics, and global vision.
On March 16, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in a wide-ranging and in-depth conversation with renowned MIT scientist and artificial intelligence researcher Lex Fridman. The podcast, which spanned over three hours, delved into Modi’s early life, his spiritual journey, his political philosophy, and his views on India’s role in the global order. The discussion was one of the most detailed and personal interviews the Prime Minister has given, attracting significant international attention. This article gives an extract from Lex Fridman Modi Podcast.
Lex Fridman Modi Podcast: A Journey from Humble Beginnings to Leadership
Reflecting on his childhood, Modi provided listeners with a deep insight into his formative years in Vadnagar, a small town in Gujarat. He described the unique aspects of his upbringing and the environment that shaped his worldview.
“Looking at the world as I understand it today, I can reflect on my childhood and the unique environment I grew up in. My village had certain fascinating aspects, some of which are quite rare, even globally.”
Modi recounted how he assisted his father at a tea stall near the local railway station, an experience that instilled in him a deep sense of responsibility and resilience. These early years, he noted, were instrumental in shaping his political and leadership philosophy.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Modi’s life has been his period of self-discovery in the Himalayas. During the conversation, he reminisced about the time he spent as a young man exploring the mountains in search of deeper spiritual knowledge.
“I spent time in the Himalayas embracing the solitude of the mountains. I met many remarkable individuals along the way. Some were great ascetics, people who had renounced everything, but still my mind remained restless.”
His time in the mountains reinforced his belief in self-discipline, introspection, and the power of deep thought, all of which have influenced his approach to politics and governance.
Influence of RSS and Ideological Evolution
Modi also spoke about his association with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the nationalist organization that has played a crucial role in shaping his worldview and leadership style. He described how the RSS instilled in him a sense of discipline, service, and dedication to national causes.
Modi addressed the often-debated concept of Hindu nationalism, emphasizing that his belief system is rooted in inclusivity and welfare for all. He pointed out that Hindu philosophy has always advocated for the prosperity and well-being of the entire world, transcending individual or sectarian interests.
“Hinduism is not about exclusion. It is a way of life that seeks harmony, not division. The idea of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the world as one family—is something I deeply believe in.”
Political Journey and Governance Philosophy
The conversation also delved into Modi’s political journey, from his early years in Gujarat’s political landscape to becoming the Chief Minister of the state and eventually the Prime Minister of India. He emphasized the importance of good governance, economic reforms, and the need to bring about systemic change to improve people’s lives.
Modi highlighted key initiatives of his tenure, such as Digital India, Make in India, and the emphasis on Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India). He stressed the importance of using technology and innovation to propel India forward in the 21st century.
“Innovation is the key to progress. We must empower our youth with the skills and resources to shape the future.”
He also spoke about his deep commitment to the welfare of marginalized communities, citing efforts like the Jan Dhan Yojana (financial inclusion program), Ayushman Bharat (healthcare initiative), and Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (cleanliness campaign).
Foreign Policy and Views on Pakistan
A significant portion of the interview was dedicated to India’s foreign policy and its complex relationship with neighboring countries. Modi reflected on his efforts to establish peaceful ties with Pakistan but expressed disappointment over repeated betrayals.
He recalled his 2014 initiative of inviting then-Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to his swearing-in ceremony as a gesture of goodwill. However, he lamented that despite India’s numerous peace overtures, the responses from Pakistan have often been hostile.
“Every noble attempt at fostering peace was met with hostility and betrayal. I still hope that wisdom prevails upon them and they choose the path of peace.”
Modi stressed that the people of Pakistan, like those in India, yearn for peace and prosperity. However, he pointed out that political instability and military influence in Pakistan have often hindered the progress of peaceful relations between the two nations.
He reiterated India’s firm stance on terrorism, emphasizing that his government will continue to take decisive action to protect national security.
“Terrorism has no place in civilization. We must all work together to eliminate this menace.”
India’s Role in the Global Order
The conversation also touched on India’s growing influence on the global stage. Modi spoke about India’s position as a key player in international diplomacy, economic reforms, and technological advancements.
He highlighted India’s leadership in climate change initiatives, renewable energy, and digital transformation. The Prime Minister reaffirmed India’s commitment to fostering global cooperation through platforms like the G20, the United Nations, and regional alliances such as the QUAD.
“India is no longer a passive player on the global stage. We are actively contributing to solutions for global challenges.”
Modi’s Perspective on AI and Technology
Given Lex Fridman’s background in artificial intelligence, the conversation naturally turned toward technology and its impact on society. Modi spoke about India’s rapid advancements in AI, space exploration, and digital transformation. He emphasized the ethical considerations of AI and the importance of ensuring that technological progress benefits humanity.
“Technology must serve humanity. We need to ensure that AI and automation are harnessed for the betterment of society, not just for economic gain.”
He also mentioned India’s ambitions in space exploration, including the success of the Chandrayaan missions and the country’s growing role in global space research.
The Impact of Modi’s Podcast with Lex Fridman
Lex Fridman, who has interviewed some of the most influential personalities in the world, expressed his admiration for Modi’s journey and leadership. Before the interview, he described Modi as “one of the most fascinating human beings I have ever studied.”
The podcast has garnered immense attention globally, with viewers and analysts praising Modi’s ability to articulate complex political, philosophical, and technological ideas in a straightforward manner. Many have noted that this long-format conversation allowed the Prime Minister to provide more context to his policies and beliefs, offering a glimpse into the thought process behind his leadership.
As one of the most-watched episodes on Fridman’s channel, the discussion has sparked conversations about Modi’s vision for India and its role in shaping the global future. The full podcast is available on Lex Fridman’s YouTube channel, providing audiences worldwide the opportunity to engage with the Prime Minister’s perspectives firsthand.
Conclusion of Lex Fridman Modi Podcast
Lex Fridman Modi Podcast was a remarkable deep dive into his personal experiences, political ideology, and vision for India. By blending spiritual insights, governance principles, and technological foresight, Modi painted a comprehensive picture of his journey from a small-town boy in Gujarat to leading the world’s largest democracy.
The interview has solidified his position not just as a political leader but as a thinker and visionary who sees India’s progress as deeply interconnected with global development. As India moves forward in the 21st century, Modi’s perspectives on governance, diplomacy, and technology will continue to shape the nation’s trajectory on the world stage.
Sources:
YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZPUtA3W-7_I
