Prime Minister Narendra Modi referred to himself as a "chai-wala" during a speech at the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) headquarters in Rome [1].
The appearance underscores the intersection of Modi's personal narrative of social mobility and India's efforts to promote its agricultural exports on a global stage.
Speaking June 21, 2024, to mark International Tea Day, Modi linked his early life in Vadnagar to his current role as the leader of the world's largest democracy [1]. He noted that he spent his youth serving tea to his father's customers before entering politics [1].
"I was a chai-wala in Vadnagar, serving tea to my father’s customers. Today, I stand before you as Prime Minister of the world’s largest democracy," Modi said [1].
During the event, Modi highlighted the diversity of Indian tea varieties and the cultural significance of the beverage. He said that India's tea culture is rich and varied, and that the nation is proud to share it with the world [2].
The FAO honored the Prime Minister with the FAO Agricola Medal during the proceedings [1]. This recognition comes as Modi's government reaches a tenure of 12 years [1].
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also spoke during the event, emphasizing the diplomatic ties between the two nations. Meloni said that the strategic partnership with India grows stronger every day and that the conversation reinforced that bond [3].
The event served as both a diplomatic engagement and a branding exercise for Indian agriculture, positioning the country as a primary hub for tea production and quality.
“"I was a chai-wala in Vadnagar... Today, I stand before you as Prime Minister of the world’s largest democracy."”
By framing his identity as a former tea seller at a global agricultural forum, Modi leverages his personal biography to project a message of meritocracy and grassroots leadership. The receipt of the FAO Agricola Medal and the public support from Prime Minister Meloni signal a strengthening of India's soft power and its strategic alignment with European partners in food security and agricultural trade.
