In a moving moment that touched hearts across the nation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday fulfilled a vow that one of his admirers had kept alive for 14 long years. At a rally in Yamunanagar, Haryana, PM Modi met Rampal Kashyap, a man from Kaithal who had taken an extraordinary pledge in 2010—to remain barefoot until Modi became Prime Minister and he had the chance to meet him in person.
That day finally arrived, and it was nothing short of emotional. In a gesture that was both humble and deeply human, the Prime Minister personally helped Kashyap put on a pair of shoes, bringing an end to a long, silent journey of devotion and belief.
Kashyap’s unwavering faith had withstood time, seasons, and social norms, all rooted in the hope that one day his admiration would be acknowledged. And when it was, it wasn’t with pomp or showmanship, but with grace and warmth. PM Modi, visibly moved, shared the moment on social media and expressed his appreciation for such devotion. However, he gently urged people not to take on extreme vows, but instead channel their affection into meaningful contributions to society.
“I cherish your love,” Modi said, “but please focus on something that is linked to social work and nation-building.”
The event, which coincided with Ambedkar Jayanti, was also marked by the laying of the foundation stone for the expansion of the Deenbandhu Chotu Ram thermal power plant in Yamunanagar. Modi’s visit to Haryana was part of a broader push for development in the region, with other inaugurations including a new terminal at Hisar airport and the flagging off of a commercial flight between Hisar and Ayodhya.
What stood out, however, was the quiet dignity of a man who had walked barefoot for more than a decade, and the equally dignified response from a leader who met that sacrifice with humility. It was a powerful reminder that the bond between public figures and the people isn’t always built on words—it’s built on moments like these.
