Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a speech at the release ceremony of former President Ram Nath Kovind's autobiography 'Triumph of the Indian Republic: My Life, My Struggles' on August 12, 2026. The event, attended by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Savita Kovind, and other dignitaries, was characterized by the PM as a 'family gathering' rather than a formal state function.
Modi highlighted his long personal association with Kovind and praised the autobiography as a valuable heritage for Indian democracy and society. He emphasized the book's title significance, noting that it reflects Kovind's perspective that personal struggles lead to victories that belong to the Indian Republic rather than the individual.
The PM detailed Kovind's humble origins in Kanpur Dehat, including a tragic childhood incident where his mother died in a house fire while trying to save household items. Modi noted how this tragedy strengthened Kovind's character and how a neighbor helped in his upbringing, demonstrating social unity. Kovind's educational journey from impoverished beginnings to the presidency was highlighted as an inspirational example of overcoming adversity through hard work.
Modi praised Kovind's maintained humility despite reaching the highest office, recalling personal anecdotes of Kovind exceeding protocol by coming to the car door to see off the Prime Minister after meetings at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The PM also referenced Kovind's emotional return to his village Paraunkh where he touched his teachers' feet and bowed to the village soil.
The speech connected Kovind's journey to broader historical narratives, noting how figures like Mahatma Gandhi, B.R. Ambedkar, Jyotiba Phule, and Savitribai Phule dreamed of an India where even the poorest could reach the highest positions. Modi positioned Kovind as realizing this centuries-old vision through his labor and ability.
Modi revealed that Kovind continues public service post-presidency, working on important subjects like 'One Nation, One Election,' which the PM described as potentially beginning a new chapter in Indian democracy. The autobiography was presented as particularly relevant for youth inspiration in an age of social media and shortcuts, with Modi specifically urging young people to read autobiographies to understand historical events differently.
The PM concluded by expressing confidence that Kovind's autobiography would preserve important memories of Indian democracy while serving as an inspiration for future generations, particularly those from poor and deprived backgrounds who might see reflections of their own lives in Kovind's journey.
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