Modi Marks 75th Birthday Amid Calls for Political Renewal

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrates his 75th birthday today, a significant milestone that has reignited discussions about political longevity within his ruling party, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Traditionally, 75 is viewed as an unofficial retirement age for senior leaders within the BJP, prompting questions about Modi’s future leadership as he enters this new phase.

Various celebrations are planned across the country, including blood donation drives and tributes in schools and newspapers. Yet, the occasion has also sparked debate among opposition parties and social media users regarding the appropriateness of leadership at an advanced age. The discourse gained traction following remarks made by Mohan Bhagwat, the leader of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Modi’s ideological ally. In July, Bhagwat referenced the late Hindutva ideologue Moropant Pingle, who suggested that reaching 75 indicates it’s time to step aside for younger leaders.

Given that both Bhagwat and Modi will reach this age in September, his comments were seen as a subtle prompt for Modi to consider his position. The prime minister’s ascent to power has historically correlated with the sidelining of senior BJP figures who surpassed this age threshold. For instance, veteran leader L.K. Advani was effectively removed from the forefront of the party after Bhagwat indicated the 2009 election was his last opportunity.

Opposition leaders have seized on Bhagwat’s comments. Mallikarjun Kharge, president of the Congress party, questioned when Modi would retire, suggesting that the prime minister is more focused on retaining power than addressing pressing national issues. Abhishek Manu Singhvi, another Congress figure, criticized the BJP’s establishment of the “Margdarshak Mandal” or “Guidance Board,” designed to retire leaders at 75, highlighting the inconsistency in party practices.

Despite these pressures, the BJP has dismissed the idea of a mandatory retirement age. Amit Shah, India’s Union Home Minister, stated last year that “Modi-ji will remain at the helm until 2029,” labeling any talk of resignation as unfounded. Bhagwat later clarified that his comments were not directed at current leaders, emphasizing that he never suggested anyone, including himself, should retire.

Critics argue that the so-called retirement rule was never official, serving mainly as a means to ease senior leaders out of the spotlight while consolidating Modi’s influence. Author Apoorvanand noted that although there is considerable discussion regarding Modi’s age, there is no visible unrest within the party. “We don’t see any tension, no evidence of rumbling,” he stated, pointing to Modi’s ongoing efforts to assert his presence in national affairs.

In the lead-up to his birthday celebrations, Modi is expected to visit Bihar, a crucial state as it prepares for elections later this year. Celebrations in BJP-controlled areas are anticipated to be grand, with various initiatives planned, including the inauguration of new hospitals and health facilities in Delhi. The Delhi government aims to collect 1,000 units of blood through donation camps, while Gujarat, Modi’s home state, targets an ambitious 75,000 units with 330 donation sites.

As Modi marks this personal milestone, he continues to face scrutiny regarding his governance and political strategies. Supporters have noted a shift in his public image, with the focus now heavily on Hindutva—Hindu nationalism. While some of his earlier promise as a development leader has waned, his core constituency remains largely committed to his ideological stance.

The celebrations also include an exhibition titled “Know Your Prime Minister” at the Delhi Assembly, which will run until October 2, coinciding with Mahatma Gandhi’s birthday. A book gallery dedicated to Modi’s speeches and life will also be opened, reflecting the significance of this milestone not only for Modi but for the broader political landscape in India.