Prime Minister Narendra Modi achieved a significant milestone on Sunday by becoming the most followed global leader on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), surpassing 100 million followers. He leads other prominent world leaders, including U.S. President Joe Biden (38.1 million followers), Dubai ruler Sheikh Mohammed (11.2 million followers), and Pope Francis (18.5 million followers).
Modi expressed his gratitude on X, stating, “A hundred million on @X! Happy to be on this vibrant medium and cherish the discussion, debate, insights, people’s blessings, constructive criticism and more. Looking forward to an equally engaging time in the future as well.”
In India, Modi’s follower count significantly exceeds those of other politicians. Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, has 26.4 million followers, while Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has 27.5 million followers. Modi also surpasses opposition figures like Samajwadi Party Chief Akhilesh Yadav (19.9 million), West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee (7.4 million), Rashtriya Janata Dal Supremo Lalu Prasad, and NCP (SP) Chief Sharad Pawar (2.9 million).
Globally, Modi’s popularity on X extends beyond politics, surpassing sporting icons like Virat Kohli (64.1 million), Neymar Jr. (63.6 million), and LeBron James (52.9 million). He also has more followers than celebrities such as Taylor Swift (95.3 million), Lady Gaga (83.1 million), and Kim Kardashian (75.2 million).
Over the past three years, Modi’s X handle has grown by approximately 30 million users. He also boasts nearly 25 million subscribers on YouTube and 91 million followers on Instagram. Since joining X in 2009, Modi has used the platform for constructive engagement, interacting with numerous citizens and maintaining an organic presence without resorting to paid promotions or bots.
Modi’s engaging and insightful posts have captivated millions globally, underscoring his influential presence and ability to resonate with a diverse audience.