On Guru Purnima, Tripura CM Saha called PM Modi Modi his political Guru, crediting Modi’s leadership as his inspiration to join the BJP and politics. Saha also paid heartfelt tributes to his academic teachers and mentors, celebrating India’s rich guru-shishya tradition with visits and blessings.
On the auspicious occasion of Guru Purnima, Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha on Thursday paid heartfelt tributes to both his academic mentors and political inspiration, declaring Prime Minister Narendra Modi as his “political Guru” and the guiding light behind his entry into the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and active politics.
Addressing the press and sharing messages on social media, Dr. Saha said, “Prime Minister Narendra Modi is my only inspiration to join the BJP and active politics. If anyone asks me who my political Guru is, I will boldly say Prime Minister Narendra Modi.”
He emphasized that it was by watching Modi’s leadership, charisma, and service to the nation that he felt drawn into political life. “I entered politics by watching him. On this special day, I seek his blessings,” said the Chief Minister, expressing gratitude to the Prime Minister for shaping his political journey.
Dr. Saha, a dental surgeon-turned-politician, took the opportunity to also remember and honour his academic mentors. “All teachers and instructors who have contributed to the academic life of an individual should be regarded as a Guru,” he said, stressing the importance of teachers in building a society grounded in values and knowledge.
He visited several of his former teachers on the day to personally offer his respects and seek their blessings, a gesture that resonated with the deep-rooted Indian tradition of guru-shishya parampara (teacher-student relationship). Among those he visited was Dr. Jagadish Gan Chowdhury, a renowned educationist from Tripura.
Sharing the moment on his official X handle, the Chief Minister posted:
“On Guru Purnima, I was honoured to visit Dr. Jagadish Gan Chowdhury, one of Tripura’s most eminent educationists, at his Ker Chowmuhani residence and receive his gracious blessings.”
He also stated that he continues to keep in touch with his teachers, including one currently residing in Bengaluru, as a mark of respect for their contributions to his life and development.
Manik Saha’s political journey has been remarkable. Originally a supporter of the Indian National Congress, he joined the BJP in 2016. Within a few years, he rose quickly through the ranks and was appointed the state president of BJP Tripura in 2020. In May 2022, he succeeded Biplab Kumar Deb as Chief Minister, following the directions of BJP’s central leadership.
Under his leadership, the BJP-IPFT alliance retained power in the 2023 Tripura Assembly elections, securing a second consecutive term. The BJP won 32 out of 60 seats, while its alliance partner, IPFT, secured one seat. Later in March 2024, the Tipra Motha Party (TMP), which had won 13 seats, joined the BJP-led coalition government under the leadership of Saha.
Guru Purnima, a traditional Hindu festival dedicated to spiritual and academic teachers, is observed across India with reverence. It is considered a day to honour one’s gurus who impart wisdom and guidance. CM Saha used the occasion not only to remember his academic teachers but also to recognize Prime Minister Modi’s role in shaping his ideological and political journey.
Concluding his statement, the Chief Minister extended warm greetings to the people of Tripura and encouraged everyone to take the time to thank and remember the individuals who guide them in various aspects of life.
“In Indian culture, gurus are the torchbearers of knowledge, wisdom, and character. Whether academic or spiritual, their role is irreplaceable. I am grateful to all those who have helped shape me into the person I am today,” said Saha.
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His heartfelt tribute to both political and academic mentors on Guru Purnima not only showcased his humility but also served as a reminder of the significance of respecting one’s guides in life and leadership.
