PM Modi & AAP Supremo Arvind Kejriwal : Divided by ideologies, United by meditation

तत्र प्रत्ययैकतानता ध्यानम्

The connection between politics and mindfulness might seem surprising to some, but the focus, discipline, and mental peace that meditation provides can be a valuable asset in the high-pressure world of politics. Perhaps that's the reason that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and AAP boss Arvind Kejriwal are known for taking up meditation journeys.

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Narendra Modi's Meditation Journeys

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been quite vocal about his meditation practice and its role in his life. After the 2019 General Elections, Modi took a brief retreat to Uttarakhand, where he meditated in the caves of the holy hills. During this time, he meditated for about 17 hours. This retreat followed a busy campaign and election season.

In 2024, after the general elections, Modi visited the Vivekananda Rock Memorial in Kanyakumari to meditate. The choice of such a symbolic and spiritually charged location underscores the importance of mindfulness and introspection in his leadership.

Arvind Kejriwal's Vipassana Practice

Arvind Kejriwal, also shares a similar commitment to meditation, albeit through a different technique. Kejriwal is a known practitioner of Vipassana meditation, a form of mindfulness meditation that focuses on observing the body's sensations, emotions, and thoughts without attachment. Vipassana is known for its ability to enhance self-awareness and cultivate equanimity—qualities that are crucial for anyone in a high-stakes, high-pressure role such as politics.

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Kejriwal has attended several Vipassana courses and visited numerous centers across India, including those in Jaipur, Nagpur Himachal Pradesh. These retreats are known for their silence and introspective environment, allowing participants to dive deep into their thoughts and reflect on their lives without external distractions. Kejriwal has often spoken about how these retreats have helped him remain calm, focused, and grounded, even amidst the chaos of political life.