Every Resident Contesting on my Behalf,′ Says PM Modi in Emotional Message to Varanasi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday made an emotional appeal to the people of Varanasi in a video message days before the holy city on the banks of the Ganges in Uttar Pradesh votes in the final phase of the ongoing national elections. PM Modi, who is contesting the parliamentary polls from the city for the second time, said, "Every resident of Kashi is fighting the elections for and as Narendra Modi".

Calling himself a Kashi-vaasi (a resident of Kashi - the ancient name of Varanasi), PM Modi said, "It is often said that whosoever come to Kashi even once becomes a part of the city. In the last five years I have experienced this every passing moment. In moulding me and giving a direction to my political and spiritual being, Kashi has a huge influence on me."

PM Modi said that 'Kashi' was not a mere word for him but an inspiration in terms of religion, spirituality and culture. "I am fortunate that its people provided me with an opportunity to serve then," he said, also referring to the massive roadshow he held in Varanasi last month.