Photo credit: www.news18.com
Last Updated: April 28, 2025, 17:11 IST
During a recent GDP@MyGov event, Ilaiyaraaja expressed his strong opinion on PM Modi’s leadership, praised him, and recalled his 80th birthday wishes.
Ilaiyaraaja received the Padma Vibhushan award in 2018. (Photo Credit: YouTube)
At the GDP@MyGov event, renowned composer Ilaiyaraaja conveyed his heartfelt admiration for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He reminisced about how PM Modi personally reached out to wish him a happy 80th birthday, marking a memorable encounter. During the event, Ilaiyaraaja also reflected on being honored with the Padma Vibhushan award in 2018, attributing the recognition, in part, to PM Modi’s support.
“I was surprised to receive the Padma Vibhushan thanks to our PM’s kindness. It was announced by him, which brings me immense joy. It truly is a remarkable honor,” Ilaiyaraaja shared during his appearance on GDP@MyGov. He recalled a conversation from the awards ceremony where he expressed his wish that Modi would lead India for another two decades, stating, “It is happening.”
When asked for his views on Prime Minister Modi, Ilaiyaraaja made an intriguing proposal. He suggested creating a comparison between Modi and India’s past leaders, indicating a desire for dialogue around leadership in the country.
Ilaiyaraaja went on to praise PM Modi’s significant contributions, particularly in revitalizing the Ganges and enhancing the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. He challenged his audience to consider alternatives, asserting, “If you don’t want Modi, name another leader that the people of India would accept. Is there anyone?” His sentiments highlighted his belief in Modi’s unique position in Indian politics.
His remarks conveyed a deep appreciation for PM Modi, suggesting that few leaders could achieve the level of acceptance Modi has garnered among the populace.
Earlier in March, PM Modi had congratulated Ilaiyaraaja for his historic performance of “Valiant,” his inaugural Western classical symphony, in London.
“Delighted to meet Rajya Sabha MP Thiru Ilaiyaraaja Ji, a musical titan whose genius has a monumental impact on our music and culture. He is a trailblazer in every sense and he made history yet again by presenting his first-ever Western classical symphony, Valiant, in London,” PM Modi noted in a post.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 18, 2025
PM Modi’s acknowledgment of Ilaiyaraaja as a cultural icon reflects their mutual respect and positions in their respective fields. The recent meeting underscored this connection, reinforcing the idea of collaboration between politics and the arts.
Ilaiyaraaja’s expressions of admiration for PM Modi exemplify the intersecting realms of personal beliefs and political discourse in India, highlighting a notable relationship between the two prominent figures as the nation observes their interactions with keen interest.
Source
www.news18.com