In the quiet hum of the flight back to Ahmedabad from Delhi that September evening in 2010, a profound sense of accomplishment washed over me. I had successfully secured Dr. Manmohan Singh’s agreement to be the Chief Guest at IIMA’s Golden Jubilee Convocation, scheduled for March 26, 2011.
The following day, I wrote to Dr. Singh to express my sincere gratitude and requested formal written confirmation from his office. The Prime Minister’s visit required significant logistical planning, and his verbal agreement needed to be translated into an official commitment. What I had not foreseen was the intricate bureaucratic process involved. The official confirmation from the PMO finally arrived about six weeks before the convocation.
Securing Shri Narendra Modi’s Presence
IIM Ahmedabad’s creation was a collaborative effort between the State (Gujarat) and Central governments, facilitated by the visionary leadership of Dr. Vikram Sarabhai and Shri Kasturbhai Lalbhai. To honor this legacy, it was essential to invite both Shri Narendra Modi, then Chief Minister of Gujarat, and Dr. Kamala Beniwal, the Governor of Gujarat, to the convocation. Much like my approach with Dr. Singh, I decided to meet them personally to extend the invitation.
My meeting with Shri Modi was scheduled for one evening in February 2011 at 5:30 p.m. in Gandhinagar. I arrived by 5:15 p.m. and, after clearing security, waited in a sparse antechamber. At precisely 5:30 p.m., I was ushered into the Chief Minister’s office. After exchanging warm greetings, Shri Modi’s first remark took me by surprise: “You must have encountered some challenges in securing the Prime Minister’s acceptance of your invitation.” His keen observation caught me off guard. I replied, “Yes, there were some difficulties, but I am glad the PM has agreed to attend the convocation.”
With a reassuring smile, Shri Modi said, “You will face no difficulty from my side. IIMA is Gujarat’s and the country’s pride. I will attend the convocation,” and added, “I will do whatever you wish at the event.” His decisiveness and graciousness left a deep impression on me. I informed him that I had left a set of documents about the institute with his office, to which he promptly called his secretary and, in my presence, instructed him to note the date and time of the convocation. Within 15 minutes, I had secured Shri Modi’s acceptance.
The Golden Jubilee Convocation
The convocation was a historic moment, bringing together two prominent leaders from different political ideologies on one stage. It was perhaps the first and only time Dr. Manmohan Singh and Shri Narendra Modi shared a public platform. Remarkably, for once, both leaders shared the same agenda during their addresses. They congratulated the parents and students, offered their best wishes, and urged the graduating class to serve the nation in whichever capacity they could.
As the evening unfolded, I had the privilege of observing these two leaders more closely. Their personas and leadership styles were as different as night and day, yet each would profoundly shape India’s destiny.
Contrasting Leadership Styles
Dr. Manmohan Singh’s legacy is defined by humility, integrity, and a compassionate approach to leadership. Renowned as the architect of India’s economic liberalization, as the country’s Finance Minister he steered the country through the global financial crisis of 2008-09 with remarkable skill and foresight. Subsequently, as the country’s Prime Minister, his tenure was marked by quiet diplomacy and resilience, particularly during political challenges in the Middle East. Dr. Singh’s leadership exemplified a steady hand during turbulent times, earning him admiration for his understated yet effective governance.
In stark contrast, Shri Narendra Modi’s leadership style is characterized by decisiveness, articulation, and an unyielding commitment to his vision. As Prime Minister, he actively shapes his legacy through several pioneering initiatives. His leadership demands acquiescence, and he does not brook opposition to his decisions and vision for the future. While his impact is already visible, his legacy will ultimately be measured not only by the growth in GDP but also by how the initiatives addressed income and social disparities within the country. Only time will reveal the full extent of his influence on India’s future.
Reflections on Leadership
On that memorable evening, two leaders from opposing ideologies set aside their differences to inspire the next generation. It was a poignant reminder that leadership can transcend political divides and agree on a common purpose. As I reflect on the Golden Jubilee Convocation, I wish that leaders from different political parties can work together with the genuine intent of improving the quality of life of people of India.
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