“Shortcuts Will Cut You Short”: PM Modi’s Message to India’s Reel Generation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has a message for India's reel generation: don't let the shortcut become the destination.

Speaking at the launch of former President Ram Nath Kovind's autobiography, Triumph of the Indian Republic: My Life, My Struggles, Modi urged young people to read autobiographies instead of relying on quick-hit social media content for inspiration.

His line was deliberately sharp:

“Shortcuts will cut you short.”

Modi said that in an age of reels and influencers, young people should seek out the stories behind success, urging them to read whichever autobiographies they find inspiring.

He held up Kovind's own life story as an example, pointing to his journey from a modest background to the highest constitutional office in the country.

Why Kovind's story, according to Modi?

Modi recalled Kovind's humility and his continued engagement with public issues after leaving the presidency.

He specifically mentioned Kovind's work around “One Nation, One Election”, saying that finding a solution to the issue could open a new chapter in India's democracy.

The Prime Minister also recalled Kovind's conduct during his presidency, including his habit of walking to the car door to see him off and his decision to touch the feet of his teachers during a visit to his village, Paraunkh.

The tragedy behind the autobiography

Modi also spoke about one of the most painful episodes in Kovind's childhood: the death of his mother in a house fire.

He said Kovind's story illustrates how personal struggles can shape a person's journey, but also how success need not be viewed as an entirely individual achievement.

That, Modi said, was another lesson from the book: recognising society as a partner in one's success rather than blaming it for one's struggles.

And that brings the Prime Minister's larger message back to the reels: Don't just consume the highlight. Read the whole story.

(With inputs from ANI)