During an interview with three ABP journalists on May 28, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a statement regarding Mahatma Gandhi’s recognition, sparking controversy and criticism.
At the 1.05.31-minute mark in the conversation, PM Modi was asked about the opposition’s absence at the Ram temple consecration ceremony and its potential impact on the election results. In his response, the Prime Minister criticized the opposition, suggesting they were unable to move past a mindset of servitude. He then made a misleading statement regarding Mahatma Gandhi’s recognition, stating, “Nobody knows Mahatma Gandhi. It was only when the ‘Gandhi’ film was made that the world was curious to know who this man was.”
This assertion contradicts historical evidence of Gandhi’s global recognition long before the release of Richard Attenborough’s biopic, “Gandhi,” in 1982. Reports from prominent international newspapers such as The Time magazine’s feature on Gandhi as its Man of the Year in 1930 and widespread coverage of Gandhi’s activities and ideas in the Western media from the 1920s onwards demonstrate his significant impact on the world stage.
The statement also overlooks Gandhi’s interactions with notable figures like Charles Chaplin and Albert Einstein, as well as his influence on leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela, all of which occurred before the 1982 film.
Critics have pointed out the inaccuracy and lack of awareness in PM Modi’s statement, highlighting the extensive global interest in Gandhi’s philosophy and activities well before the release of the biopic.
The Prime Minister’s remarks have drawn scrutiny and raised questions about the accuracy of his historical knowledge, particularly concerning one of India’s most iconic figures.