TL;DR: Prime Minister Narendra Modi's inaugural podcast with Nikhil Kamath sheds light on his leadership approach, highlighting a preference for controlled narratives and a tendency to avoid direct accountability. This behavior aligns with observations of narcissistic traits in his governance style.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's first podcast appearance with Nikhil Kamath offers a revealing look into his leadership style. Throughout the conversation, Modi adeptly navigates topics, often steering clear of direct answers to pressing questions. This approach underscores a broader pattern in his interactions with the media and the public.
Historically, Modi has favored interactions that allow him to maintain control over the narrative. He has built and maintained an illusory world of stage-managed interviews and 'godi media' news.
This preference for orchestrated dialogues over spontaneous exchanges suggests a reluctance to engage in settings where he might face unpredictable or challenging inquiries.
Such behavior is not without precedent. Former Union Minister Arun Shourie has previously criticized Modi for running a one-man 'Presidential government', describing his approach as narcissistic and potentially dangerous for India's democratic fabric.
This centralization of power and the cultivation of a personality cult can stifle dissent and undermine democratic institutions.
Moreover, Modi's tendency to deflect criticism and portray himself as a victim further exemplifies narcissistic traits. By positioning himself as the target of conspiracies, he seeks to elicit sympathy and divert attention from substantive issues.
In conclusion, Modi's controlled media engagements and his avoidance of direct accountability reflect a leadership style marked by narcissism. This approach raises concerns about the health of democratic discourse in India, as it limits open dialogue and critical examination of those in power.
