New Delhi, August 12, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday released former President Ram Nath Kovind’s autobiography, Triumph of the Indian Republic: My Life, My Struggles, at an event in New Delhi, praising his humility, generosity and commitment to Indian values.
The book offers a personal account of Kovind’s journey from his early years and struggles to his public life and tenure as the 14th President of India. It also reflects on the experiences and values that shaped his approach to public service.
Addressing the gathering at Vigyan Bhavan, Modi described the occasion as a “family event” and said Kovind’s guidance during his presidency and his affection towards him had been a source of strength.
The Prime Minister said Kovind’s life story and contributions could become a “heritage” for India’s democracy and society, while urging young people to read the autobiography and understand his journey through his own words.
Highlighting the title of the book, Modi said the struggles described in it were personal, but their outcome represented a triumph for India’s democracy and republic.
He also praised Kovind’s generous outlook, saying that people often take credit for their achievements while blaming society for their difficulties. Those guided by Indian values, however, recognise society as a partner in their success, he said.
Modi recalled the hardships Kovind faced after losing his mother, Kalavati, at a young age. She died around 1950 after suffering fatal burns when the family’s thatched house caught fire.
The Prime Minister said such a tragedy could have broken anyone, but Kovind drew strength from his struggles and regarded his father as his hero.
Recalling his interactions with Kovind during the latter’s tenure as President, Modi said the former President would personally come to the car door to see him off, despite protocol.
“I used to request him in the beginning, ‘Please don’t do this.’ But until the end of his life, he never gave up that humility,” Modi said.
He also recalled Kovind’s visit to his native village after becoming President, when he touched the feet of his mentors and expressed gratitude to villagers. Modi said the gesture reflected Indian values and was a moment of pride for the country.
Earlier, Kovind thanked those attending the launch and said the occasion was different because it centred on his personal life and his struggles.
Ram Nath Kovind was born on October 1, 1945, in Paraunkh village in Uttar Pradesh’s Kanpur Dehat district. He served as President from 2017 to 2022. Before becoming President, he served as Governor of Bihar from 2015 to 2017 and as a Rajya Sabha member from Uttar Pradesh for two consecutive terms.
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