Prime Minister Modi Unveils Ram Nath Kovind's Autobiography
Launch of 'Triumph of the Indian Republic'
Photo: IANS
New Delhi, Aug 12: On Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially launched the autobiography of former President Ram Nath Kovind, titled 'Triumph of the Indian Republic: My Life, My Struggles'.
This autobiography presents an intimate narrative of Ram Nath Kovind's extraordinary life, detailing his challenges, accomplishments, and experiences from his formative years to his notable public service as the 14th President of India. The book also sheds light on the principles and experiences that influenced his path and commitment to public service.
During the event at Vigyan Bhavan in New Delhi, the Prime Minister remarked, "This feels like a family gathering. Today, we have the chance to glimpse the life story of Ram Nath Kovind ji. I have known him for many years, and his support as President, along with his personal affection for me, has been a significant source of strength."
"From my understanding of his life and the depth of my acquaintance with his abilities, I can assert that Kovind Ji's autobiography will serve as a legacy for India's democracy and society. His life journey and contributions are vast; however, this launch should merely be an introduction. I encourage everyone to read the entire book to truly appreciate his experiences," PM Modi stated.
He urged the youth to explore Ram Nath Kovind ji's life story through his own words and to engage with his writings and experiences.
Congratulating the former President on his publication, the Prime Minister noted, "The title of the autobiography is apt -- Triumph of the Indian Republic: My Life, My Struggles -- indicating that while the struggles were personal, their outcome was a victory for India's democracy and republic."
He emphasized that while many take credit for their achievements and blame society for their hardships, those with a generous spirit, guided by Indian values, focus on the positive aspects of society and view it as a partner in their success. Kovind ji's autobiography exemplifies this perspective.
PM Modi also recounted how Ram Nath Kovind's mother faced significant challenges to support the family. Kovind lost his mother, Kalavati, around 1950 when he was just five years old, following a tragic incident where their thatched house caught fire.
"Experiencing such a loss at a young age is incredibly painful. I am fortunate that my mother lived for over a century and continued to bless me. Even now, I miss her dearly. It was a tough time for him (Kovind); many would have been overwhelmed, but Kovind ji emerged stronger from those trials... He regards his father as his hero," the Prime Minister added.
He reminisced about his interactions with Kovind during his presidency, stating, "As Prime Minister, when I visited President Ram Nath Kovind, there were certain protocols to follow, yet he would come to the car door to see me off. I initially requested him not to do this, but he maintained that humility throughout his life."
After assuming the presidency, PM Modi noted that when Kovind returned to his village, he showed respect to his mentors by touching their feet.
"By bowing to the soil of his village, he expressed gratitude to the local community. The entire nation witnessed that emotional moment. Through such actions, he showcased Indian values to the world, making every Indian proud," he remarked.
Earlier, during his address, Kovind expressed, "Until now, I have spoken to you on various occasions, but today is unique as we discuss my personal life, the book 'Triumph of the Indian Republic', which details my life and struggles. I sincerely thank all of you for being part of this event."
Ram Nath Kovind was born on October 1, 1945, in a Koli family in Paraunkh village, Kanpur Dehat district, Uttar Pradesh.
He served as India's President from 2017 to 2022, becoming the first individual from Uttar Pradesh and the first from the BJP to hold this esteemed constitutional position.
Before his presidency, he was the Governor of Bihar from 2015 to 2017 and served two consecutive terms as a Member of the Rajya Sabha representing Uttar Pradesh.