What do you get when you combine the power of radio with the vision of a nation's leader?
Mann Ki Baat, the remarkable monthly radio programme that has taken India by storm.
For over nine years, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has used this platform to connect with his people, sharing his thoughts, ideas and vision for the country. And now, as the show approaches its hundredth episode, Collective Spirit, Concrete Action takes you on a journey through the themes that have defined Mann Ki Baat and shaped India’s developmental trajectory.
Over the course of 15 chapters, this book delves deep into the issues that have defined Mann Ki Baat over the years—from health and education to innovation and entrepreneurship—with each one providing a unique perspective on India's ongoing transformation.
But what makes Collective Spirit, Concrete Action truly special are the insights and perspectives it offers from grassroots change-makers and iconic personalities. Through their stories and experiences, readers will understand how the programme has inspired societal change and impacted the lives of individuals and communities across the country. By discussing the stories of farmers who have transformed themselves into entrepreneurs as well as ordinary citizens who have been inspired to take action, among many others, this book provides a deeper understanding of the power of dialogue and the transformative potential it holds.
Review
‘This book marking the landmark 100th episode of Mann Ki Baat is a record of the nation’s developmental journey with Modi ji, since the first episode was aired in October 2014. It features a host of interesting nuggets covering diverse fields, culling out inspirational stories about unsung heroes and agents of change across this vast nation. The book documents fascinating facets of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ongoing conversations with 1.3 billion people of the world’s largest democracy, celebrating change-makers and grassroots champions, bringing about societal change in a silent, inspiring manner. While highlighting an array of social, economic, environmental, cultural, health and fitness issues of pressing significance featured in Mann Ki Baat, this book also provides us a glimpse into Prime Minister Modi’s untiring efforts to educate, guide and motivate our countrymen to strive towards pervasive social change and national development while focussing on their communities. Collective Spirit, Concrete Action not only has immense historical value for these reasons, but also helps us to comprehend the dreams of a nation which is fast rising on the international stage as a major global player.’
—M. Venkaiah Naidu Former Vice President of India
About the Author
Shashi Shekhar, former CEO of Prasar Bharati (2017–2022), managed the dual broadcast networks of Doordarshan and All India Radio, while also serving as CEO of Rajya Sabha TV, India’s parliamentary TV Channel. As an IIT Bombay alumnus and a distinguished policy thinker, author and technology expert, Shekhar has made significant contributions to the fields of broadcasting, digital media and public policy.