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How a Single Phone Call from Atal Ji Changed Narendra Modi's Political Destiny.
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News18•08-10-2026, 14:35
How a Single Phone Call from Atal Ji Changed Narendra Modi's Political Destiny.
- •In October 2001, a phone call from Atal Bihari Vajpayee asked Narendra Modi to take charge as the Chief Minister of Gujarat.
- •Atal Ji recognized Modi's organizational strength, political acumen, and capability to handle governance.
- •During the difficult phase of 2002, Atal Ji reminded Modi of Rajdharma while providing crucial backing and preventing his ouster.
- •The responsibility given by Atal Ji in Gujarat served as a stepping stone, ultimately leading Modi to become the Prime Minister in 2014.
- •This relationship stands as a testament to a mentor's vision and a leader's dedication to turning opportunity into history.
Key Questions Answered
Narendra Modi took oath as the Chief Minister of Gujarat on October 7, 2001, following a phone call from Atal Bihari Vajpayee urging him to move from organization work to governance responsibilities.
During the 2002 crisis, Atal Bihari Vajpayee publicly emphasized 'Rajdharma', serving as a moral message that a ruler must practice non-discrimination in governance, while still offering silent support to Modi.
After serving multiple terms as Gujarat's Chief Minister following the 2001 transition, Narendra Modi was declared as the BJP's prime ministerial candidate in 2013 and subsequently became Prime Minister in 2014.
