"Whoever works for the country's welfare has my support": Annu Kapoor praises PM Modi's leadership
Mumbai, July 3
Veteran actor Annu Kapoor praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, saying that leading a country of 140 crore people is no easy task and that he supports anyone who genuinely works for the nation's welfare, irrespective of political affiliation.
Speaking to ANI about Prime Minister Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Kapoor said governing a country as vast and diverse as India requires exceptional leadership.
"140 crore ki aabadi ko lead karna, uska netritva karna, Narendra Modi ke hi bas ki baat hai (Leading and managing a population of 140 crores is only possible for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It is possible for Union Home Minister Amit Shah as well). People may say that I belong to the BJP, but I am not with the BJP. I belong to this country. Whoever talks about the welfare of the nation and proves it through their work, I stand with them. I am not associated with any political party. I am ready to give that in writing," he said.
The veteran actor also spoke about his recent meeting with the Prime Minister, revealing that it came about after he sent him an email.
"I had simply written an email. I am extremely grateful to him. He was very kind to me. He immediately called me, and I met him," said the ace actor.
Asked whether the meeting had fuelled speculation about his entry into politics, Kapoor dismissed the suggestion, saying he has no political ambitions.
"What difference does it make what people say...." he said.
Kapoor further clarified that PM Modi never asked him to join politics.
"Not at all. We simply sat together, chatted and laughed. It was a wonderful meeting. He knows that I have no vested interest, and I know that I did not go to meet him for any selfish reason. He is the Prime Minister of my country," Kapoor added.
Emphasising the importance of democratic values, Kapoor said the Constitution guarantees citizens the right to express opinions and criticise the government, but that public discourse should remain respectful.
"I keep saying one thing repeatedly. The Constitution gives you the freedom to speak and the freedom to criticise. It gives you the right to point out shortcomings. But it does not give anyone the freedom to abuse others. One should not use abusive language. That is the hallmark of a civilised society. A nation of 140 crore people has more than a billion problems," said the 'Aitraaz' actor.
— ANI
Reader Comments
While I appreciate his sentiments, I wish more public figures would also acknowledge where the government has fallen short. Yes, leading a nation of this size is tough, but constructive criticism is also part of a healthy democracy. Hoping for balanced praise where due.
What a refreshing perspective! He simply used email and got a meeting with the PM - that's the kind of accessibility we need more of. Not asking for anything, just showing support for national welfare. If more Indians thought this way, our country would progress much faster. 👏
As a foreigner living in India, I find it fascinating how public figures here engage with politics. Back home in Canada, politicians rarely meet ordinary citizens unless it's election time. Annu Kapoor's point about respectful discourse is something we could all learn from.
"Whoever works for the country's welfare has my support" - that should be every Indian's motto! Too many people blindly follow parties or blindly oppose them. Annu ji is showing true patriotism by keeping his focus on the nation, not party politics. King size respect for this statement! 🔥
Interesting choice of words - "I am ready to give that in writing". In an era where celebrities often backtrack on statements, this shows conviction. Whether you agree with the politics or not, you have to appreciate the clarity of thought. The contrast with political opportunism is striking.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.