When Prime Minister Narendra Modi goes on air with his monthly radio programme ‘Mann ki Baat’ on state-run All India Radio on January 27 (Tuesday), he will be joined by a special guest: US President Barack Obama.
Since taking power, Modi has hosted three such monthly radio shows that began in October, using the traditional medium of communication that still has a wide reach.
“This month’s ‘Mann Ki Baat’ episode will be a special one, where our Republic Day guest @BarackObama & I will share our thoughts together,” Modi broke the news on Twitter Thursday.
“I am eagerly looking forward to the special ‘Mann Ki Baat’ programme with President @BarackObama, which will be aired on 27th January.”
Modi’s high-octane communication strategy — throughout his election campaign last year and during his stint in power — sometimes evokes comparison with that of Obama’s, who also makes a weekly radio address from White House.
There is, however, a difference. While Modi’s radio talk has been a hit in terms of listenership, the one by Obama has faded into relative irrelevance, according to US media analysts.
Modi and Obama, who had co-authored an editorial piece in the Washington Post ahead of the Indian PM’s visit to the US last October, will take pre-arranged audience questions.
“‘Mann Ki Baat’ with President @BarackObama will not be complete without your participation! Send your Qs till the 25th, using #AskObamaModi,” the Prime Minister said.
He said questions could also be posted on mygov.in, the PM’s website for interactive governance.
