Modi to Obama in 2014: “Your car is almost as big as my mother’s house”

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 21st Sept. In a candid exchange during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 2014 visit to the United States, Modi told then-US President Barack Obama that the size of his presidential car was almost as large as the house where Modi’s mother lived. This heartfelt moment was shared by India’s Ambassador to the US, Vinay Kwatra, in a recent interview on the “Modi Story” social media handle, which chronicles anecdotes about the Prime Minister.

Kwatra, who was present during the conversation as a translator, said that the remark came during a 10-12 minute drive to the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, after formal discussions between the two leaders. As they sat together in Obama’s stretch limousine, the conversation naturally shifted towards family. Obama asked about Modi’s mother, to which Modi responded, “President Obama, you might not believe this, but the size of your car is almost the size of the house my mother lives in.”

Kwatra noted that Obama was visibly surprised by the statement, which provided a glimpse into Modi’s modest upbringing. Both leaders, coming from humble beginnings, found a deeper connection in this candid moment, underscoring the personal bond they shared despite their high offices.

Modi’s ability to forge personal connections with world leaders, including US presidents, has been highlighted as one of his strengths in bridging cultural and geopolitical divides. Modi’s mother continued to live in their old Gujarat home until her passing in 2022.

Prime Minister Modi is currently on a three-day visit to the United States to participate in the Quad Summit and address the UN General Assembly.