If You're Listening How a world leader kept a secret from 1.4 billion people
Jun 2, 2025
Avani Dias, an ABC journalist and former South Asia correspondent, reveals the surprising truth about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's secret marriage. Modi has kept his wife hidden for decades, contrasting sharply with his public persona as a bachelor. The discussion uncovers his early life choices, the interplay of tradition and modernity, and the implications of his marital status on his political image. They also touch on his controversial social policies, including the uniform civil code, and the complex issues surrounding Kashmir, reflecting the tensions in India's nationalist politics.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Modi's Secret Early Marriage
- Narendra Modi was married young through an arranged marriage typical in his Indian culture but left his wife early on.
- He has publicly maintained a bachelor image for decades, hiding the marriage from the public eye until recently.
Modi Leaves Family Young
- Modi left his wife and family at age 17-18 to pursue a life outside traditional expectations.
- This act was seen as rebellious and deeply affected his family.
Single Status as Political Image
- Modi used being unmarried as a political asset, portraying himself as solely committed to India.
- He left the spouse section blank on official forms and spoke publicly about being single to appeal to voters.