Prime Minister Narendra Modi turned 76 on Thursday, September 17, 2026, with political leaders from across the country extending birthday greetings and sharing their views on his tenure and political record.
Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi posted a brief message on X, wishing Modi good health and a long life. His message focused solely on the prime minister’s birthday without commenting on his government’s policies or political record.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also extended his greetings to Modi. Singh said India was moving towards the goal of ‘Viksit Bharat’ under Modi’s leadership. He referred to areas including infrastructure development, digital connectivity, welfare initiatives, innovation and entrepreneurship.
Singh also highlighted what he described as the government’s focus on good governance and public service. He wished the prime minister good health, a long life and continued strength to serve the country.
Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju also shared birthday greetings for Modi. In his message, Rijiju wished the prime minister good health and a long life and credited his leadership with advancing the goal of a developed India.
However, not all messages were celebratory in tone. Former Delhi chief minister and Aam Aadmi Party leader Arvind Kejriwal used his birthday message to reiterate his criticism of Modi.
Kejriwal referred to his allegations concerning voter-list manipulation in Delhi and made a critical post on X linking the issue to the BJP’s political success in the capital. His remarks reflected the continuing political disagreement between the AAP and the BJP over electoral processes and the 2025 Delhi Assembly election.
The different messages highlighted the contrasting political positions surrounding Modi’s birthday. Leaders from the BJP and the Union government focused on his leadership, development agenda and public service, while opposition figures used the occasion to raise criticism of his government and political record.
Modi’s 76th birthday is also being marked by events and programmes organised by the BJP and its supporters in different parts of the country. The celebrations come as the prime minister completes another year in office and continues to remain at the centre of national political discussions.
The BJP has also been highlighting Modi’s 25 years in public life, covering his tenure as Gujarat chief minister and his subsequent years as prime minister.
Meanwhile, political activity surrounding the birthday has generated debate on social media, with supporters highlighting government initiatives and achievements and critics raising questions about various policies and political issues.
As leaders across parties shared their messages, the occasion once again brought contrasting views of Modi’s long political career into focus. While his supporters highlighted development, governance and the goal of a developed India, opposition leaders continued to raise questions about policies, elections and the functioning of the government.
PM Modi has not only served as Gujarat chief minister but has also been prime minister since 2014, making him one of the central figures in Indian politics over the past decade. His birthday celebrations this year therefore carry both ceremonial and political significance.
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