Vadnagar, the small yet storied town in Gujarat’s Mehsana district that shaped Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s early years, came alive with vibrant celebrations to mark his 75th birthday, weaving together community spirit, cultural pride, and heartfelt tributes from family and friends. From blood donation drives to temple prayers and folk performances, the town honored its most famous son, whose journey from its modest streets to the pinnacle of Indian leadership continues to inspire.
The festivities, meticulously organized by the Vadnagar BJP unit, kicked off with a blood donation camp on Tuesday, followed by an eye check-up camp on Wednesday morning, spearheaded by Modi’s elder brother, Somabhai Modi. At 7:30 AM, the revered Hatkeshwar Mahadev temple hosted a special pooja and havan, with devotees offering prayers for the Prime Minister’s health and success.
Sweets were distributed to spread joy, while a cleanliness drive after 9:30 AM reflected Modi’s Swachh Bharat ethos, sprucing up the town’s lanes. The evening promised a cultural extravaganza with a grand dayro (Gujarati folk music) program featuring luminaries like Rajbha Gadhvi and Osman Mir, drawing crowds to celebrate Vadnagar’s heritage.
Modi’s cousins, Bharatbhai Modi (65) and Ashokbhai Modi (61), sons of his father Damodardas Modi’s younger brother, Narsinhdas, added a personal touch to the celebrations. Bharatbhai, who runs a modest grocery shop in a rented space after returning to Vadnagar four years ago, expressed deep pride: “Narendrabhai’s rise from our family to leading India as a vishwaguru fills us with joy. I wish him boundless success.”
Ashokbhai, earning Rs 5,000 monthly from a tiny 4x2 feet shop selling religious and seasonal items, echoed, “Happy birthday, Narendrabhai. May God grant all his wishes. I’ve never sought his help, believing in carving my own path.” Despite their proximity to fame, both cousins have steadfastly avoided leveraging their connection to Modi, earning respect in Vadnagar for their humility.
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Dashrathbhai Patel, Modi’s childhood friend and classmate, shared nostalgic memories of their school days, from attending RSS shakhas to acting in plays and savoring undhiyu at his farm. He recounted a defining moment from 1969 when a teenage Modi, passing the dilapidated Tana-Riri memorial, vowed to restore it as Gujarat’s Chief Minister. “He kept that promise in 2001, proving his vision and resolve,” Patel said. He also recalled their time at Vadnagar railway station, where Modi sold tea from his father’s stall while Patel’s father ran a nearby shop, painting a vivid picture of Modi’s humble beginnings.
Vadnagar itself has transformed into a symbol of progress under Modi’s influence. In 2021, the Prime Minister inaugurated the revamped railway station, now a heritage circuit highlight with an Rs 8.5 crore makeover. The Prerna School, where Modi studied, was renovated and reopened in January 2025 by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, inspiring students with its legacy.
The Archaeological Experiential Museum, showcasing Vadnagar’s 2,500-year history, a state-of-the-art sports complex, and the redeveloped Sharmishtha Lake have elevated the town’s profile. A multi-modal transportation hub and public plaza opposite the railway station are now in progress, cementing Vadnagar’s place as a blend of heritage and modernity.
These birthday celebrations were more than festivities; they were a testament to Vadnagar’s deep bond with Modi, whose vision continues to uplift his hometown. From community service to cultural pride, the events reflected the values Modi has championed, making Vadnagar a beacon of his enduring legacy.
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