American podcaster Lex Fridman astounded Prime Minister Narendra Modi by revealing he had been fasting for nearly two days prior to their talk. Commencing the podcast, Fridman mentioned, "I want to let you know I've been fasting. It's been 45 hours, two days now. I've only been drinking water, abstaining from food. I did this in honor and preparation for our conversation, so we can discuss in a spiritual manner." He then asked PM Modi, "I've heard you also frequently fast. Can you share why you do so? And what's your mental state during this time?
In response, PM Modi expressed surprise at Fridman's fasting, particularly as a gesture of respect. He conveyed, "I am deeply grateful for this. India's religious traditions are essentially a lifestyle. Our Supreme Court has beautifully interpreted Hinduism as not just a religious practice but a 'Way of Life.' Our scriptures discuss how to elevate the body, mind, intellect, and soul, and fasting is part of that methodology. However, fasting is not everything. Culturally or philosophically, in India, self-discipline through fasting is sometimes a chosen path."
Read also: 'I told Trump let's circle the stadium, and he joined me', PM Modi shares an amusing anecdote from 'Howdy Modi'.
PM Modi elaborated that for those unfamiliar with Indian customs, fasting is a powerful means to achieve both internal and external balance and is instrumental in crafting life. "When you fast, as you mentioned, surviving on water for two days, your senses—smell, touch, taste—become so acute that even the scent of water becomes prominent, something you might not have noticed before. If someone passes with a cup of tea, you'll detect its aroma just as sharply as that of coffee. In essence, all your senses become remarkably alert with enhanced perception and response capacity."
He further shared that his experience with fasting sharpens and revitalizes thought processes, encouraging innovative thinking. "Most people associate fasting merely with abstaining from food. That's just the physical aspect. You wouldn't consider not eating due to financial distress as fasting. It is a scientific process. Whenever I engage in extended fasting, I prepare my body beforehand. Five to seven days prior, I cleanse my system internally following various Ayurvedic practices, yoga routines, and other traditional methods. I hydrate as much as possible before beginning. Thus, you might say this detoxification routine optimally prepares my body. Once the fast commences, it transforms into an act of devotion for me."
Don't Miss: 'Myth was spread...', PM Modi speaks on the 2002 Gujarat riots, emphasizing that there had been over 250 riots earlier.
PM Modi described fasting as a form of self-discipline for him. "Even while engaging in numerous activities during a fast, I remain inwardly focused, which becomes a transformative experience. This fasting practice stems not from reading books or religious sermons, nor familial customs. It originated from my personal journey. During my school years, a movement for cow protection, which Gandhi advocated, was active since the government hadn't passed legislation. Nationwide, we sat publicly fasting. We were just kids, fresh out of elementary school. Something told me I must participate. My experience was enlightening as I didn't feel hunger or longing but rather gained a new consciousness and energy. I realized it was a science, leading to gradual experimentation in shaping my mind and body."
