New Delhi, Aug 12: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday released former President Ram Nath Kovind’s autobiography, Triumph of the Indian Republic: My Life, My Struggles, at a programme held at Vigyan Bhavan in New Delhi.
The book traces Kovind’s journey from his childhood and early struggles to his years in public life and his tenure as the 14th President of India. It offers a personal account of the experiences, challenges and values that shaped his life and his approach to public service.
Speaking at the launch, Prime Minister Modi described the occasion as a special and emotional one and recalled his long association with Kovind.
“I have known Kovind ji for a very long time. His guidance as President and, above all, his special affection for me has been a great source of strength for me,” Modi said.
The Prime Minister said Kovind’s life story would offer valuable lessons to the younger generation and encouraged young people to read the autobiography to understand the struggles and experiences behind his journey.
Modi also cautioned the youth against the growing tendency to look for quick and easy success. He stressed that there are no shortcuts to a meaningful and successful life, and said Kovind’s journey was an example of how determination, patience and hard work can help overcome difficult circumstances.
Referring to the title of the book, the Prime Minister said Kovind’s struggles were personal, but the larger outcome of his journey represented the success of India’s democratic and constitutional values.
Modi also recalled Kovind’s humility and simple manner during his tenure as President. He said Kovind would personally come to the door of his car to see him off after meetings, despite protocol.
“I used to request him in the beginning, ‘Please don’t do this.’ But until the end of his tenure, he never gave up that humility,” Modi recalled.
The Prime Minister also remembered Kovind’s visit to his native village after becoming President, when he paid respects to his mentors and expressed gratitude to the people and the soil of his village.
Kovind, in his address, expressed his gratitude to those who attended the book launch and said the occasion was different because it focused on his personal life, experiences and struggles.
Born on October 1, 1945, in Paraunkh village in Uttar Pradesh’s Kanpur Dehat district, Kovind went on to build a long career in public service. He served as a Member of the Rajya Sabha, Governor of Bihar and later as the President of India from 2017 to 2022.
His autobiography brings together memories from different stages of his life and reflects on the people, circumstances and values that influenced his journey.
The book is expected to offer readers, particularly young people, an opportunity to understand the importance of perseverance, humility, public service and faith in democratic values.