The interaction began after Sam Pitroda described Narendra Modi as a respected "Gujarati friend," commending his hard work and oratorical skills despite frequently organizing events for his political opponents. Prime Minister Modi returned the goodwill by extending Diwali and Nutan Varsh Abhinandan wishes to Pitroda and his wife Anjana, wishing them health and joy. Pitroda also recalled past hospitality, noting that Modi had been caring during visits to his home in Gujarat. The exchange surprised some political supporters, leading Modi to playfully extend festive greetings to an ordinary social media user who commented on the exchange.
Key points
Political rivals demonstrated unexpected personal goodwill through festive greetings desp…: Political rivals demonstrated unexpected personal goodwill through festive greetings despite their ongoing ideological opposition.
Sam Pitroda highlighted Narendra Modi's past personal warmth toward his family during vis…: Sam Pitroda highlighted Narendra Modi's past personal warmth toward his family during visits to his residence in Gujarat.
The cordial public exchange between opposing political figures generated notable surprise…: The cordial public exchange between opposing political figures generated notable surprise among supporters on social media.
Sources checked by our analysis pipeline: 1
NEW DELHI: Congress's overseas wing head, Sam Pitroda, is a vocal critic of PM Narendra
Modi and the key organiser of
Rahul Gandhi's overseas outreach events.
But the festive season brought out of him rare words of praise for Modi, who in turn extended his Diwali greetings to the fellow Gujarati.
Modi said, "Happy Diwali and Nutan Varsh Abhinandan to you Sam Bhai and to Anjana Ben. Praying for a joyful and healthy year ahead. Jai Jagannath!"
In remarks to a news agency, Pitroda had called Modi a "Gujarati friend" whom he respects as a person.
"My wife and I have met him. He has been very warm, kind, loving and caring at a personal level. Of course, he is a good orator and hard-working, and we get along well. We have no personal issues. I have nothing against Mr Modi as a Gujarati leader, friend or well-wisher. He has been very warm towards me, and I appreciate that. Similarly, I have been to his house in Gujarat several times," he said.
Modi's greetings took even some BJP supporters by…
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