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On the occasion of International Women’s Day, five-time Guinness World Record holder and one of India’s most inspiring endurance athletes, Sufiya Sufi, shared her belief that women can achieve anything they set their minds to. She emphasized the need to break free from self-imposed limitations and cultivate an unrelenting passion for their goals.

Quoting the famous lines, “Kaun kehta hai aasmaan mein surakh nahi ho sakta, ek patthar toh tabiyat se uchhalo yaaron,” Sufiya has truly embodied this spirit. She left behind a well-established career in aviation to pursue her dream of becoming a world-class endurance runner.

The Power of Passion and Obsession

“When you have a passion for something, that passion drives you to push boundaries. At that moment, you don’t think about challenges or hurdles—your only focus is on achieving your goal. Passion and a bit of craziness for what you want are essential. No matter the field you choose, you should have that level of obsession to succeed,” Sufiya told IANS in an exclusive interaction.

Her journey into running started in 2018 when she sought an escape from her demanding aviation job. What began as a simple way to relax soon evolved into a life-changing passion. Since then, she has entered the Guinness Book of Records five times, setting new benchmarks in ultrarunning for India.

Sufiya holds several records, including completing the challenging Manali-Leh stretch on foot in 2022, becoming the fastest female to finish the Golden Quadrilateral in 2021, and achieving the fastest woman’s traverse from Kashmir to Kanyakumari in 2019. She has also undertaken the Tribute Run, dedicated to honoring the sacrifices of Kargil war heroes.

A Journey Born from Change

“My journey didn’t begin with a burning passion; I simply wanted to break free from corporate life and do something different. After leaving my aviation job, I started running. Initially, it was just in a park, but over time, it became a true calling,” she recalled.

Her first major run in 2019, covering Kashmir to Kanyakumari, marked her entry into the Guinness World Records for road running. In 2020, she completed the Golden Quadrilateral run, covering 6,000 km across four metro cities.

“Then I ventured into mountain running, completing a run from Siachen to Kargil as a tribute to the Indian Army. I also ran across Qatar, from south to north, setting yet another record. Taking on such challenges has made me realize I can push myself even further,” she said.

Overcoming Challenges with Unshakable Self-Belief

Sufiya shared that despite facing obstacles, she never wavered in her belief in herself. She stressed the importance of eliminating doubt when pursuing something new.

“The challenges started right at the beginning, particularly when I decided to leave behind a stable corporate career. People were unfamiliar with ultrarunning at the time, so choosing this path was a major step into the unknown. However, I felt that pioneering something new was an achievement in itself.

“The biggest challenge was financial support, but over time, things started falling into place. I never allowed doubts to take root in my mind. When you embark on a journey, you must do so with complete conviction—there should be no question marks in your mind,” she said.

Empowering Women to Recognize Their Inner Strength

Delivering a powerful message to women, Sufiya encouraged them to stop setting limits for themselves. She urged them to recognize their own strength instead of making excuses about societal or family constraints.

“Women often impose boundaries on themselves. In my community, there were many restrictions on women, and I was the first girl to step out and work. The first step is believing in yourself—only then can you convince others that what you’re doing is right. Recognizing your inner strength is key. Trust yourself first before worrying about societal expectations,” she emphasized.

A Strong Advocate for Fitness and Well-being

Sufiya also praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Fight Against Obesity’ initiative, calling it a much-needed step towards a healthier nation.

“It’s an excellent initiative. Whether you are a housewife or a professional, fitness should be a top priority. More importantly, mental fitness is just as crucial. You don’t have to be a sportsperson to stay fit—regardless of your occupation, maintaining fitness is essential,” she said.

The Next Big Challenge: Running Around the Globe

Sufiya is now gearing up for her most ambitious challenge yet—‘Run Around the Globe’, where she plans to cover 40,000 km in 680 days, making her the first female runner to attempt such a feat.

With her relentless spirit, unyielding passion, and inspiring journey, Sufiya continues to break barriers and redefine endurance sports for women worldwide.

The post Guinness Record Holder Sufiya Shares Her Success Mantra for Women on International Women’s Day first appeared on Global Indian News Network.

Journalists and writers are revered throughout the world for their professionalism and ethical conduct of  reporting truthfully and disseminating that to the public.  Usually, they thoroughly research their subject before they pen it.  Normally, the public accepts their write ups.

Recently, I read an article written by one Rishika Singh in a well known and well respected newspaper: The Indian Express without checking the facts.  The article is titled “ How did Diwali celebrations begin at the White House?”  She mentioned  “ Barack Obama was the first US President under whom Diwali Celebrations were held” which is completely false.

The First Ever Diwali celebration in the Western World was started by President Geoge W. Bush (43) on October 23, 2003 at The White House and personally I am a witness to that fact.

We, the Indian Community  are grateful to all succeeding Presidents Obama, Trump and Biden to keep the tradition of Diwali Celebrations alive at The White House.

But, it seems that Ms. Singh had a different agenda by bringing Ramadhan, Eid, minority Islam into the narrative.  She mentioned about recognition of minority groups without paying any attention to the plights of Black Americans & American Indians.

Rishika Singh did a good service to the Hindu cause of writing about Diwali but she tried to rewrite history inaccurately.

It would be nice if Rishika Singh retracts her story and saves herself from spreading misinformation to the public.

Piyush Agrawal

(Initiator of Diwali Event with President George W. Bush)

Nov 01, 2024

The post Response to Rishika Singh’s Article in The Indian Express about Diwali first appeared on Global Indian News Network.

Scientists at the Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science (IACS), Kolkata, an autonomous institute under the Department of Science and Technology, have developed a groundbreaking therapy that could become a precision medicine, particularly for patients who do not respond to existing cancer treatments.

Cancer cells often acquire resistance to certain therapies, necessitating the search for alternative treatment options. The IACS team has identified a new target for cancer treatment by activating a DNA repair enzyme called TDP1, which suggests a potential combination therapy.

In their pursuit of alternative therapies, the team investigated how cancer cells repair their DNA during cell division and how they react to chemotherapy targeting the enzyme Top1. Unfortunately, drug resistance often links this enzyme, necessitating the need for more effective treatments.

The EMBO Journal published their research, which concentrates on two crucial proteins: Cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (CDK1) and Tyrosyl-DNA Phosphodiesterase 1 (TDP1) The study reveals that cancer cells can resist the effects of existing drugs by activating TDP1, a DNA repair enzyme, which allows the cells to survive. Benu Brata Das from IACS led a team that made this discovery.

“Our research shows that CDK1 directly influences TDP1, which helps cancer cells repair the DNA damage caused by Top1 inhibitors,” Das explained. “By targeting both CDK1 and TDP1, we may be able to overcome drug resistance and make cancer treatments more effective.”

The study suggests that using CDK1 inhibitors along with Top1 inhibitors could make the killing of cancer cells a lot more effective. These CDK1 inhibitors include avotaciclib, alvocidib, roniciclib, riviciclib, and dinaciclib. This combination therapy works by disrupting the DNA repair processes and halting the cell cycle, making it harder for cancer cells to survive.

“Cancer cells frequently develop resistance when treated with just one type of agent. By combining CDK1 and Top1 inhibitors, we can target and eliminate cancer cells more effectively,” Das said, emphasizing the potential of this dual-targeted therapy.

This research points toward a promising new direction for precision medicine in cancer treatment, especially for cases where conventional therapies fail to deliver results.

The post Indian scientists’ innovative drug aids cancer patients resistant to existing treatments. first appeared on Global Indian News Network.

Anand Mahindra, the chairman of Mahindra and Mahindra, was left in awe after witnessing a remarkable performance by a nine-year-old girl of Indian origin on “America’s Got Talent.” Pranysqa Mishra, who recently appeared on the show, captivated the audience with her extraordinary vocal abilities.

Mahindra took to social media to praise Mishra, emphasizing her incredible talent. In a heartfelt post, he noted that this was the second time in two weeks that a very young Indian-origin performer had impressed the judges at “AGT” with exceptional skills. He highlighted Mishra’s proficiency in American music genres like rock and gospel, noting her emotional rendition brought him to tears, especially when the show featured a moment with her grandmother. Mahindra concluded by marveling at how much talent is emerging from India.

The performance video starts with Mishra making an entrance in a purple dress, waving to the audience and judges. She introduces herself as a Florida resident and shares her excitement for the performance, revealing that her grandmother had always dreamed of her performing on a grand stage. Mishra mentions her admiration for artists such as Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, and Tina Turner before delivering an impressive rendition of Tina Turner’s “River Deep, Mountain High.”

Mahindra’s post about Mishra quickly gained traction, receiving over 2,600 likes and numerous comments. Responses from users included praise for Mishra’s remarkable voice and confidence, as well as nostalgic reflections on Tina Turner’s music. One commenter remarked on Mahindra’s ability to recognize and celebrate true talent, while another expressed awe at Mishra’s ability to master such complex genres at such a young age.

The post Nine-Year-Old Pranysqa Mishra Stuns AGT, Earns Mahindra’s Praise first appeared on Global Indian News Network.

In a tale of dedication and determination, Shruti Hegde, a doctor hailing from Hubli, Karnataka, has seamlessly balanced her rigorous hospital shifts with an unexpected foray into the world of beauty pageants. Recently crowned India’s first Miss Universal Petite on June 10th in Tampa, Florida, Shruti’s journey underscores her resilience and pursuit of diverse passions.

Navigating the demanding realm of healthcare, Shruti’s commitment to both her medical career and newfound pageantry success is a testament to her unwavering spirit. Reflecting on her dual roles, she mused, “Being a doctor is far more challenging than I initially imagined. The intense schedules can be overwhelming, yet I find fulfillment in both fields.”

For Shruti, entering the pageant circuit was a spontaneous decision driven by a desire for personal growth. She shared that many from smaller towns like hers dreamed of becoming a beauty queen. Her journey began with the Miss Dharwad contest in 2018, where her unexpected win propelled her into the spotlight and ignited a journey of self-discovery.

Her path was not without obstacles. A medical emergency in 2019, involving benign ovarian and uterine tumors, briefly halted her ambitions. “I thought my pageant aspirations were dashed, but with unwavering support from my mother, I persevered,” Shruti recounted. She embarked on a nationwide quest for personal development, mastering the intricacies of pageantry, from poise to public speaking.

Financial challenges initially posed hurdles, but her resilience bore fruit when she secured the prestigious second runner-up title at Miss Asia International India 2023. This accolade opened doors to the entertainment industry, where Shruti cautiously explored roles in serials and, most recently, films.

“The opportunity to feature in ‘Sharanara Shakti,’ a historical film depicting the life of Basavanna, was transformative,” Shruti shared. Encouraged by the evolving landscape of Kannada cinema, she currently stars in ‘Janumadata,’ a poignant exploration of familial dynamics, where she portrays the lead role.

Shruti’s journey exemplifies seizing opportunities and pursuing passions with unwavering determination. As she navigates her roles in medicine and entertainment, her story continues to inspire, reflecting the vibrant spirit of modern Indian women breaking barriers and embracing new horizons.

The post Hubli to Glory: Dr. Shruti Hegde, India’s First Miss Universal Petite first appeared on Global Indian News Network.

People widely celebrate Rabindranath Tagore, a towering figure in literature and the arts, especially on his birth anniversary on May 7. Born on May 7, 1861, Tagore was not only a seminal figure in Indian culture but also a beacon of intellectual and artistic achievement globally.

In 1913, Tagore became the first Asian to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature, making his legacy particularly notable.

Tagore received this Nobel Prize for his book “Gitanjali,” a collection of poems he personally translated from Bengali into English. Officials bestowed the prize for Tagore’s profoundly sensitive, fresh, and beautiful verse, which he used to express his poetic thought in his own English words, making it a part of Western literature. This recognition was not just a personal achievement but a moment of great national pride for India, serving as a bridge between Eastern and Western literary traditions.

Tagore’s work extends beyond poetry; he was also a philosopher, educator, painter, and composer. His songs, known as Rabindra Sangeet, are an integral part of Bengali culture to this day. Tagore’s ideas on education and internationalism remain deeply influential, as he envisioned a world where humanity transcended geographical and cultural boundaries.

People around the world celebrate his legacy, especially in India and Bangladesh, where they observe his birth anniversary with great reverence. Educational institutions, literary societies, and cultural groups often organize readings, performances, and discussions to honor his contributions to literature and society.

Thus, remembering Rabindranath Tagore on his birth anniversary not only honors his personal achievements but also celebrates the rich and enduring impact he has had on the world stage.

 Tagore has been the subject of numerous books and articles. Therefore, rather than simply restating the obvious in this article, we will delve into a few topics that haven’t received as much attention as others.

Tagore’s interaction with world leaders 

Tagore was an extensive traveler; his travels helped him develop a deep appreciation for diverse cultures and philosophies. Over his lifetime, he visited more than thirty countries on five continents. His works reflected these experiences, emphasizing universal humanism over nationalism. Tagore met with several prominent figures and leaders across the globe, including Mahatma Gandhi, Albert Einstein, Romain Rolland, and H.G. Wells.

Tagore’s interaction with Mahatma Gandhi

Deep mutual respect and thoughtful disagreements marked the relationship between Tagore and Mahatma Gandhi, two towering figures of Indian history and culture. Their interactions encompassed a wide range of discussions on various aspects of Indian society, politics, and the path to independence from British rule.

1. Mutual Respect: Tagore and Gandhi held each other in high esteem. Tagore famously bestowed the title ‘Mahatma’ on Gandhi, which translates to “great soul,” a term that became synonymous with Gandhi’s identity. Gandhi, in turn, revered Tagore as “Gurudev,” or “great teacher.” Their respect was evident in their personal correspondence and public acknowledgements of each other’s contributions.
2. Philosophical Differences: Despite their mutual respect, they had significant philosophical differences, particularly concerning the means of achieving independence and the nature of a post-colonial Indian society. While Tagore promoted a more individualistic and artistic approach, emphasizing education, freedom of thought, and cultural development, Gandhi often centered his approach on mass movements and a strict code of personal and communal discipline.
3. Nationalism and Internationalism: Tagore was critical of some aspects of Gandhi’s Swadeshi movement, which advocated the boycott of foreign goods. Tagore believed in a more inclusive and international approach, fearing that extreme nationalism could lead to isolation and xenophobia. He was wary of the potential divisiveness of strong nationalistic fervor and often advocated for a more universal and humanistic approach.
4. Views on Modernity and Tradition: Gandhi’s vision included an idealized version of an ancient Indian village society that was self-sufficient and free of industrial influence. In contrast, Tagore was more open to embracing modern ideas and technologies that could enrich Indian society without compromising its cultural identity.
5. Personal Interactions: Their personal interactions often involved exchanges of letters discussing these themes. Tagore visited Gandhi at his ashrams, and they engaged in dialogues that were both personal and philosophical. Their disagreements were public but respectful, contributing to a broader discourse on the future of India.

The relationship between Tagore and Gandhi illustrates a profound dialogue between two different visions for India, each influential in its own right, and their legacy continues to influence discussions on ethics, governance, and cultural identity in India and beyond.

Tagore’s interaction with Albert Einstein

Tagore’s interaction with Albert Einstein is one of the most fascinating intellectual exchanges in history, bridging the worlds of science and literature, East and West. Their conversations delved into the nature of reality, truth, and beauty, offering a rare glimpse into how two great minds from seemingly disparate fields could find common ground and yet respectfully differ.

Tagore and Einstein met several times during the early 1930s. These meetings were characterized by discussions on fundamental questions concerning the universe, the nature of truth, and the pursuit of science and art. Not only did their dialogues reflect their personal philosophies, but they also underscored the intellectual climate of the era, marked by a growing questioning and exploration of the boundaries between different disciplines.

The most famous of their discussions took place in 1930 at Einstein’s home in Caputh, near Berlin. Their core debate revolved around the separation of human perception and beauty from human experience, as well as the independence of truth from humanity.

Einstein’s View: Einstein believed in an external universe independent of human perception, rooted in objective truths that scientific methods could ascertain. He argued, “If there is no human being any more, the Apollo of Belvedere no longer remains beautiful. “No longer by itself, anyway.”

Tagore’s Perspective: Tagore, on the other hand, held a more human-centric view, arguing that truth and beauty are human interpretations of the universe. He believed that truth is a human construct, deeply intertwined with human perception. He stated, “This is a human world—the scientific view of it is also that of the scientific man.”

The dialogues between Tagore and Einstein were significant because they highlighted the possibility of profound respect and mutual inquiry between individuals rooted in different intellectual traditions. While Einstein approached the conversation from a scientific realist standpoint, Tagore presented a perspective grounded in relational realism, which sees the universe through the lens of human interconnections.

Scholars continue to study and appreciate the Tagore-Einstein conversations for their depth and open-minded spirit, symbolizing a bridge between the sciences and the humanities and between Eastern and Western ways of thinking about the world.

Tagore’s interaction with Romain Rolland

Tagore’s interaction with Romain Rolland, another luminary of the early 20th century, is a remarkable chapter in the story of cultural and intellectual exchanges between the East and West. Romain Rolland was a French dramatist, novelist, and essayist, and like Tagore, he was also a Nobel laureate, celebrated for his deep humanism and commitment to international cultural exchange.

Romain Rolland was one of the Western intellectuals who greatly admired Tagore and his philosophy. Rolland was deeply involved in Europe’s cultural life and was an ardent advocate for peace and non-violence, which resonated with Tagore’s own ideals. Their interactions were part of a broader dialogue between Western and Eastern intellectuals during a time when there was a significant interest in Indian philosophy and spirituality in Europe.

Tagore and Rolland shared a common belief in the power of art and culture to foster international understanding and peace. They discussed various issues related to nationalism, universalism, and the role of culture in shaping society. Both intellectuals were critical of aggressive nationalism and believed in a more inclusive view of humanity that transcended national boundaries.

Universal Humanism: Both Tagore and Rolland promoted the idea of universal humanism, which connects people beyond their national or cultural identities. They held the belief that cultural and artistic exchanges, emphasizing shared human values, could foster true understanding among nations.

Critique of Nationalism: Tagore’s skepticism of nationalism, particularly in its more aggressive forms, found a sympathetic ear in Rolland. Tagore expressed concerns about nationalism leading to parochialism and conflicts, while Rolland’s anti-war stance, especially during and after World War I, aligned with Tagore’s views on the destructive impacts of nationalistic fervor.

The correspondence and personal meetings between Tagore and Rolland enriched both their worldviews. Rolland’s respect for Tagore was evident in his writings and advocacy of Tagore’s work in Europe, which helped introduce Tagore’s literary and philosophical ideas to a broader audience. Tagore’s interactions with European intellectuals, such as Rolland, validated his belief in the universality of his message and the relevance of Indian thought to global issues.

Their interaction is a testament to the power of intellectual and cultural exchange in fostering mutual respect and understanding between different worlds. It highlighted the role of intellectuals and artists in bridging divides and promoting a vision of humanity that is inclusive and compassionate. This legacy of dialogue continues to inspire those who seek to bridge cultural and ideological divides through understanding and empathy.

Through these interactions, Tagore not only represented India on a global stage, but also brought back valuable insights and ideas that contributed to India’s cultural and educational reform. His conversations and disagreements with leaders like Gandhi highlighted his belief in a more inclusive and comprehensive approach to understanding human progress and governance.

Celebrating Tagore Today

Events across the globe celebrate Rabindranath Tagore’s birth anniversary, honoring his diverse contributions to literature, art, and philosophy. Communities and cultural institutions worldwide organize a variety of activities, from elaborate poetry readings that breathe new life into Tagore’s verses to vibrant musical performances inspired by his compositions. Art galleries curate special exhibitions showcasing his paintings, inviting viewers to delve into the visual aspect of his creativity.

Theatrical groups stage adaptations of Tagore’s plays, highlighting his innovative contributions to drama and performance art. Educational forums and workshops explore his educational philosophies, drawing lessons on how they might inform contemporary teaching practices. In addition, digital platforms offer webinars and virtual exhibitions, making Tagore’s work accessible to a global audience and fostering a digital dialogue around his enduring relevance.

Such commemorations not only honor Tagore’s legacy but also serve as an introduction to his work for those yet to discover the depth of his genius. Participants from diverse backgrounds unite in appreciation of a visionary who championed the universal values of love, empathy, and interconnectedness by engaging with his creations and ideals. These events underscore the timeless nature of Tagore’s contributions, demonstrating how his ideas continue to resonate and inspire in today’s world. Through these global tributes, we reaffirm our commitment to carrying forward Tagore’s vision of a world where creativity and humanism flourish in harmony.

The post Remembering Rabindranath Tagore: Honoring a Legend on His Birth Anniversary first appeared on Global Indian News Network.

Jain Acharya Lokesh, the founder of Ahimsa Vishwa Bharati and World Peace Centre, received the American Presidential Award at Capitol Hill in Washington, marking a historic moment as the first Indian monk to be bestowed with this honor.

The accolade comprised the Presidential Award, Golden Shield, Certificate of Honor, and a citation bearing President Biden’s signature. US Congressman Brad Sherman presented the certificate and citation, as announced by Ahimsa Vishwa Bharati.

President Biden lauded Acharya Lokesh’s humanitarian endeavors, recognizing his significant contributions to the public good and service to both the nation and humanity. In his signed citation, Biden emphasized the importance of Acharya Lokesh’s global peace initiatives, underscoring the need for hope, light, and love in the present challenging times.

Expressing profound gratitude on behalf of the American people, Biden commended Acharya Lokesh’s volunteer leadership and expressed confidence in his continued dedication to serving humanity.

In his acceptance speech, Acharya Lokesh expressed pride in receiving the American Presidential Award while acknowledging the heightened responsibility it entails. He attributed the honor to Indian culture, spiritual values, and the Jain principles of Lord Mahavir, underscoring his steadfast commitment to the welfare of mankind over the past four decades.

Acharya Lokesh underscored his dedication to upholding these values and meeting future expectations. He expressed gratitude to President Biden and expressed optimism for continued collaboration between India and the US in advancing the betterment of humanity.

The post Jain Acharya Lokesh honored with US Presidential Award first appeared on Global Indian News Network.

Time magazine’s ‘100 Most Influential People of 2024’ roster, unveiled on Wednesday, featured several prominent Indians, such as Alia Bhatt and Sakshi Malik. The list also featured Ajay Banga, Satya Nadella, and Dev Patel.

The lineup extended beyond entertainment and sports, encompassing figures like Jigar Shah, Priyamvada Natarajan, and Asma Khan.

Here’s a closer look at some of the featured Indians:

Alia Bhatt: Recognized for her international debut in “Heart of Stone,” Alia’s blend of star appeal and authenticity impressed director Tom Harper, who lauded her luminous acting and grounded persona.

Sakshi Malik: India’s sole female wrestler to clinch an Olympic medal, Sakshi gained recognition for her stand against the Wrestling Federation of India, highlighted by filmmaker Nisha Pahuja in Time’s profile.

Ajay Banga: Time highlighted Banga’s tenure at Mastercard and his vision to eradicate poverty at the World Bank, praising his innovative financial solutions and partnerships.

Satya Nadella: With Microsoft’s ventures in AI, Nadella was lauded as a compassionate technologist by Mellody Hobson, emphasizing his commitment to responsible AI use.

Dev Patel: Rising to fame with “Slumdog Millionaire,” Patel’s directorial debut in “Monkey Man” marked a new chapter in his career, admired by co-star Daniel Kaluuya for his fresh perspectives.

The post Alia Bhatt, Sakshi Malik on Time’s 2024 influential list first appeared on Global Indian News Network.

Since 2014, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s popularity has grown exponentially – and so has the formidable organizational machine of his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). These two factors will be key to delivering the BJP a likely third consecutive victory in the Indian general election, starting today.

While much ink has been spilled on Modi’s populist leadership and personality cult, the same does not hold for the party organization that he and his close ally, Amit Shah, have developed over the past decade. Yet, this has been crucial to the party’s electoral success. How?

As part of my research on members of right-wing populist parties, I’ve conducted interviews with dozens of BJP party members and officials. (They spoke to me on condition of anonymity, so are only represented by their first initial here).

What I’ve found is that the BJP’s grassroots organization fuels its dominance at the ballot box in four key ways: 1) campaigning; 2) diffusion of Hindu nationalist ideology; 3) implementation of welfare programs; and 4) party survival.

A well-oiled campaign machine

Maintaining a large membership-based organization provides the BJP with a campaign machine that has no equal in India.

Since 2014, Shah, the former president of the party and current Home Affairs minister, has conducted regular mass recruitment campaigns to help the party become what is believed to be the largest in the world. It claims to have some 180 million members.

The focus of this organization is on the polling booth. During election campaigns, BJP grassroots members are assigned a booth where they collect as much information as possible on voters and then try to persuade them to vote for the BJP.

S., a Marathi soap business owner active in the BJP’s women wing, described their campaigning to me like this:

Each booth has ten women, and each woman is allotted 15 houses where they roam around for about three days [before election day]. They check who is there, if anyone has passed away. They check how voting will happen. They compile data on that and, on election day, since they have already known each other for a few days, they check in with these people – see if they have voted, if they are getting out to vote.

No other political party, including the Congress Party which dominated Indian politics for decades, can rely on this type of large membership and tight organization. The BJP is effectively engaging in micro-campaigning on a nationwide scale, and so gaining a significant advantage in mobilizing voters.

Training members in Hindu nationalism

In addition, the BJP is the Indian party with the most well-defined ideological platform, which combines fervent Hindu nationalism with right-wing populism based on religious polarization. Its grassroots organization enables the BJP to socialize and train its members in this ideology.

My research on both BJP party voters and members shows how these people hold right-wing populist attitudes and worldviews that closely match the party’s platform.

In the case of grassroots members, these ideologies are ingrained through an extensive training network.

J., a doctor and BJP member from Surat (Gujarat), explained to me:

Once a year, for two to three days, there are experts on various subjects who come and train us. There is training for different things. The history of the BJP, the ideology of the BJP, the performance of the BJP.

S., a retired school principal from the same city, said members are also taught “how to communicate with people – we should reach people’s hearts”.

This means that when they campaign in elections, BJP party members are adept at mobilizing new followers based on the party’s ideological platform, which has been central to its success over the last decade.

Bringing welfare to the poor

Alongside Hindu nationalism, the expansion of welfare to hundreds of millions of low-income earners is another reason why Modi is so popular. He always makes sure to put the words “prime minister” before the names of welfare programs and print his face on handouts.

When it comes to welfare program implementation, however, it is BJP party members who do the heavy lifting. According to my interviews, this was the main activity of party members, whether in the form of cleaning the streets, distributing food or setting up bank accounts for the poor.

As P., a young consultant from Vadodara (Gujarat), told me:

Whenever there is any government scheme for the needy people, we go to them and make them aware. We try to be a bridge between the government and people.

This was the case, for example, of M., a Gujarati woman who helped set up self-help groups for women so that they could “stand on their own two feet”.

We teach them how to make wicks, to make sanitary pads, to make incense sticks.

These schemes are very popular among the Indian public. And evidence shows the beneficiaries were more likely to vote for the BJP in the 2019 general election.

Party survival is a priority

Finally, the extensive grassroots party organization enables the BJP to thrive by providing a steady source of candidates, officials and leaders.

Members affirmed that the BJP, contrary to other parties, is meritocratic when it comes to the distribution of offices. As N., a Marathi car shop owner, explained:

The BJP is not dominated by one family. All workers are considered equal, and ordinary workers can get promoted to higher posts.

Indeed, my research on dynasticism among Indian parties found that in the 2019 election, just 17% of the candidates fielded by the BJP were from a political family (as opposed to 27% in the Congress Party).

Even though some BJP members did complain to me about candidates being “parachuted” in from other parties without having served their time, the BJP remains a party in which long-standing grassroots members can pursue a political career.

Maintaining a large membership also facilitates the BJP’s survival in the long run. In the words of P., the Gujarati consultant mentioned above:

Today the BJP is ruling because we have full-time workers. It’s one of the biggest strengths of the party. We have seen one Modi, but we have thousands of Modis.

Certainly, it will be hard for the BJP to find another leader as charismatic and popular as Modi. But, ultimately, the heart of the party is its grassroots organization. As long as the BJP continues to develop this machine – and its opponents fail to build similar structures – it is hard to see the BJP losing a general election.

This article was first on Conversation web site

About the author

Sofia Ammassari is a Research Fellow in the Centre for Governance and Public Policy at Griffith University. Her research focuses on populism, party organization, and women’s and youth political participation.

The post What makes the BJP so successful in India By Sofia Ammassari first appeared on Global Indian News Network.