It was a memorable evening where history merged with literature, where memories merged with the present and where interesting anecdotes were shared. The occasion was the release of Shri Narendra Modi’s book, ‘Sakshibhaav’ and the release was done by the revered Sri Sri Ravi Shankar ji. Noted author Shri Gunvant Shah was present on the occasion.
Speaking on the occasion Shri Modi recalled the days when the contents of the book were written. He said, “What is published today is what I wrote 36 years ago. I used to write a diary daily but this was not the diary in the conventional sense. Late in the night I used to write and this was a Samvaad with Jagat Janani Maa.” He went on to say, “When I wrote all this I was never in politics. Infact, I used to burn what I wrote after 6-8 months of writing it. One day, a Pracharak, Narendrabhai Panchasara saw me doing it and he said do not do this, don’t burn this. That is why I did not burn it and the book has taken share. It is Narendrabhai Panchasara who should get credit for this and that is why I dedicated this work to him.”
Shri Modi recalled that for years these papers were lying somewhere and that is when he gave it to Sureshbhai, who persisted the work be published. “Sureshbhai told me that from these bits of paper we can make good furniture I said no. For a month there was a tussle and finally 4 years ago I said yes, it can be published. And after the process to publish it began I took a lot of interest.”
He went on to say, “I hope those who know me through the papers will know me through my words and through me. They say it is difficult to reach me but Sakshibhaav will connect us in the true sense.” He urged the readers to write to him about their experience of reading the book.
Speaking on the occasion, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar praised Shri Narendra Modi and lauded his several virtues. He said that those who want to talk and criticize will continue to do so but those who are working will continue to do so.
Noted Gujarati author Shri Gunvant Shah talked on various issues. He said that Shri Narendra Modi is at his best when somebody attacks him and he is attacked everyday! Shri Gunvant Shah praised Shri Modi for remembering Gita Press during his visit to Gorakhpur to address a BJP rally. “I always wished someone who remembered Gita Press to lead the nation,” Gunvant Bhai said. On the flawed notions of secularism by vested interest groups, Gunvant Bhai said that in his view, the words socialism and secularism should be replaced with Sarvodaya and Sarva Dharma Sambhava respectively as they encapsulate the Indian value systems better. He also asked why is there no road named after Dara Shikoh when there are roads after every Mughal Emperor.
Literature lovers, youngsters, Ministers and other people form all walks of life were present during the launch of the book.
You can hear Audio version of the book HERE