New Delhi, March 8 – As the world celebrates International Women’s Day, an old video of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has resurfaced, highlighting India’s timeless reverence for women. In the clip from 2003, when Modi was Gujarat’s Chief Minister, he emphasized how India elevated women to divine status long before modern democracies granted them basic rights.
The video, shared by ‘Modi Archive’ on X, captures Modi addressing a rally. He pointed out that while it took America over a century to give women voting rights, independent India granted universal suffrage in 1947. ‘This was even before laws reserving 33% seats for women in Parliament,’ the post noted, referring to recent initiatives like the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam.
Modi questioned why women’s power should be confined to homes when it could influence gram sabhas, districts, and decision-making rooms. He underscored India’s civilizational view: ‘No tradition worldwide has portrayed women as gods – Amba, Durga, Saraswati, Lakshmi. India did this centuries ago, mandating respect for Nari Shakti.’
This viral moment aligns with PM Modi’s recent Women’s Day message, where he praised women’s resolve shaping ‘Viksit Bharat’. He highlighted schemes empowering women to realize their potential and contribute to nation-building. As India advances, their aspirations will guide a stronger future.
The resurfacing of this speech reignites discussions on India’s progressive stance on gender equality, contrasting with global histories. It serves as a reminder that true empowerment stems from cultural roots, fueling ongoing reforms for women’s leadership across sectors.