Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared the Bengali snack jhalmuri with leaders of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) on June 10, 2026 [1].
The gathering served as a symbolic gesture of unity and celebration as alliance partners congratulated Modi on achieving a record tenure as India's longest-serving prime minister [2].
The event took place at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi [3]. During the conclave, the prime minister engaged in a light-hearted moment, eating the spicy puffed rice mixture with his political allies [1]. The interaction was captured in a clip shared by the prime minister, where he said, "Sharing Jhalmuri with fellow NDA leaders at the NDA meeting today" [4].
This milestone marks a significant point in Indian political history. At the time of the meeting, Modi had served as prime minister for 12 years [5]. This duration establishes his position as the longest-serving leader in the history of the office [2].
Reflecting on the achievement during the proceedings, Modi said, "My good fortune to serve for so long" [6]. The atmosphere of the meeting was described as celebratory, focusing on the stability, and longevity of the NDA coalition's leadership under his direction [2].
Bharat Mandapam, the venue for the conclave, has become a frequent site for high-level government functions in the capital [3]. The choice of jhalmuri, a popular street food from West Bengal, added a regional cultural element to the political gathering [1].
“"Sharing Jhalmuri with fellow NDA leaders at the NDA meeting today"”
The event underscores the consolidation of power within the NDA and the symbolic use of regional culture to project inclusivity. By highlighting his status as the longest-serving prime minister, the administration emphasizes political stability and the enduring nature of its coalition's mandate.
