2 hrs ago

Former Teacher Recalls Modi’s Sharp School Days and Service

Narendra Modi’s former teacher, HC Patel, talked about what Modi was like as a schoolboy.

He said Modi learned quickly and liked taking part in school activities.

Modi gave speeches about leaders such as Swami Vivekananda.

He also acted in a play and received a long standing ovation.

Patel said Modi attended an RSS shakha and respected people from different religions.

Modi enjoyed swimming and once brought a baby crocodile home, but returned it when his mother became worried.

He also helped his father sell tea at a railway station.

The BJP is holding several public-service events for Modi’s birthday and his 25 years in public service.

Key facts

Former teacher: HC Patel taught Modi Mathematics and Science in Classes 10 and 11.
Teaching period: June 1965 to May 1967 at BN High School in Vadnagar.
School performance: Patel said about 10,000 people watched Modi perform as folk hero Jogidas Khuman.
Public service milestone: The occasion marks Modi’s completion of 25 years in public service.
Chief minister recollection: Patel said Modi became Gujarat chief minister in 2001 and later met him and touched his feet.
Teacher recognition: In 2005, Modi felicitated 26 former primary and high school teachers in Ahmedabad.
Planned activities: The BJP announced rallies, a puja, a blood donation camp and a nationwide cleanliness campaign.

NDTV · 2 hrs ago