A quick story of the rise of Narendra Modi in Indian Politics and key decision that made him a national icon. There are some interesting similarities between Mr. Modi and Mr. Obama! Read more...

1. Makeover of Indian Politics
Study of Change brought by Narendra Modi

2. Who is Narendra Modi?
• He has masters degree in political science in 1980
• In 1988, Modi was elected as organizing secretary of BJP's Gujarat unit
• Modi rose to prominence after organizing Murli Manohar Joshi's Kanyakumari-
Srinagar Ekta yatra (Journey for Unity) in 1991
• Key strategist for the BJP in 1995 and 1998 Gujarat state election campaigns
• As secretary, his electoral strategy was central to BJP's victory in the 1995 & 1998
state elections

3. As CM of Gujarat
• In 2001, Keshubhai Patel’s health, governance, political turbulence and handling of
post earthquake situation led to search of new candidate
• Central office being worried about Modi’s governance capabilities, suggest deputy
CM to Keshubhai Patel
• Modi denied with full responsibility or no responsibility and became CM

4. 2002 Elections
• In continuing effect of 2002 violence, calls for his resignation arose from within and
by NDA alliances
• During national executive meeting of BJP, Modi submitted his resignation which
was rejected by the party
• In July 2002, Modi & Cabinet resigned and assembly dissolved before 8 months
• In Dec 2002, under the leadership of Modi, BJP won 127 seats from 182

5. 2007 Elections
• BJP regained power by winning 117 seat in 2007 elections
• Modi was rooted deep in grounds and focusing on politics of development
• UPA has done enough mistakes [in decisiveness,, stand against terrorism, Mumbai
blasts etc.]
• This election has emotional appeal along with the issues [Riot free, progressive
Gujarat, all disruptive elements will be repressed]
• He evoked regional pride in people of Gujarat

6. Lying the foundation
• Start early to stay ahead in the race
• Technology will turn the table in future
• Planning matters the most to get the work done
• Understand the new age power centers
• Learn from examples

7. Coincidental similarities: Obama & NaMo
• Obama is a graduate of Columbia University and Harvard Law School
• He was a community organizer in Chicago before earning his law degree
• Served three terms in the Illinois Senate from 1997 to 2004
• Won presidential nomination after a close primary campaign against Hillary
Rodham Clinton
• Obama [Democrat] succeeded George W Bush [Republican] after his 2 terms

8. Journey from coincidence to consonance
• US president candidacy announced in front of the Old State Capitol, where
Abraham Lincoln delivered his historic "House Divided" speech in 1858
• Projected Hope and Change as the core message of his campaign
• Team of technocrats at support and vision of social engagement
• Social media revolution and youth connect [Dialogue & not monologue]
• Well planned campaign, army of Obama volunteers

9. Building a Brand: NaMo
• Position your brand right & don’t lose the sight
• Market exactly what you want to sell
• Give people a reason and connect with thought leaders
Person > Citizen > Volunteer > Spoke Person
• Personalize connection and pat on the back [mara Gujarat ma, mitro etc.]
• People may not respond to advertising, but marketing works for sure

10. Building a Brand: NaMo
• Be focused and sell what you are best at [Development and Hope]
• Aim high and don’t get driven by distractions, talk to the top
• Don’t scratch the wound you cant heal
• Understand the power distribution
• Don’t fight on all fronts
• Don’t strike until you are ready, attack when enemy is the weakest

11. Building a Brand: NaMo
• Balance between new age technology and old tactics
• People has stronger influence than media
• Speak the language, people understands
• Stay open for ideas, embrace innovation
• No substitute to hard work