As Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrates his 75th birthday this September 17, 2025, his remarkable energy and sustained vigor continue to be a subject of public fascination and inspiration. Despite a demanding schedule that often extends for 16-18 hours daily, PM Modi maintains a high level of physical and mental fitness, attributed to a disciplined lifestyle rooted in traditional Indian wellness practices: yoga, a simple yet nourishing diet, and unwavering self-discipline. His approach underscores a holistic understanding of health, proving that age is truly just a number when consistent effort and mindful living are prioritized.
The Pillars of PM Modi’s Fitness Philosophy
PM Modi’s wellness journey is a blend of ancient wisdom and modern commitment, offering a blueprint for vitality that extends beyond mere physical activity to encompass mental clarity and emotional balance.
The Daily Discipline of Yoga and Meditation
Yoga forms the bedrock of PM Modi’s fitness regimen, a practice he not only advocates globally through initiatives like International Yoga Day but also integrates deeply into his personal daily life.
Early Morning Yoga Sessions
His day typically begins early, between 4:00 AM and 5:00 AM, with dedicated time for yoga, Surya Namaskar, pranayama (breathing exercises), and meditation. He reportedly practices a 40-minute session of Pancha Tattva Yoga, incorporating specific asanas such as Vajrasana, Setu Bandhasana, Bhujangasana, and Uttanpadasana. These practices are credited with enhancing flexibility, improving digestion, strengthening core muscles, and fostering mental clarity and peace of mind.
The Power of Yoga Nidra
To combat the challenges of limited sleep and maintain energy levels, PM Modi also incorporates Yoga Nidra, a technique known for revitalizing the body and mind by addressing sleep deprivation. This emphasis on mental well-being alongside physical activity ensures a holistic approach to health.
Walking and Connection with Nature
Beyond formal yoga, PM Modi includes morning walks in his routine, sometimes walking barefoot on grass. This practice is believed to reduce stress, improve sleep, decrease pain and inflammation, and enhance heart health, reinforcing his connection with nature.
A Simple, Sattvik, and Sustaining Diet
PM Modi’s dietary choices reflect a philosophy of simplicity, nourishment, and adherence to traditional Indian vegetarian eating habits. He emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients and avoids processed or oily foods.
A Disciplined Start to the Day
His breakfast, usually around 9:00 AM, is light and simple, often consisting of ginger tea and boiled or roasted foods. Staples like poha, khichdi, kadhi, upma, or khakra are preferred for their ease of digestion and sustained energy release. Moringa paratha, rich in vitamins, calcium, and protein, is a particular favorite, consumed twice a week for its immunity-boosting and health benefits.
Traditional Indian Meals
For other meals, his diet primarily features traditional Indian dishes such as seasonal vegetables, dal, and rotis. Khichdi, particularly Gujarati vaghareli khichdi made with millets and lentils, is a staple, often preferred for dinner due to its lightness and digestibility. He typically finishes his dinner by 7:00 PM. Other favorite superfoods include makhana (fox nuts), millets, black rice, and shrikhand (in moderation).
The Practice of Fasting
A significant aspect of PM Modi’s diet is his disciplined fasting routine, a tradition he has maintained for over 50 years.
- Chaturmas Fast: From mid-June to November (the Chaturmas period), he observes a routine of eating only one meal within 24 hours.
- Navratri Fasts: During Shardiya Navratri, he completely abstains from food, consuming only hot water. For Chaitra Navratri, he adheres to a strict fruit-only diet, eating just one specific fruit once a day for the nine-day period. Modi emphasizes that fasting does not hinder his work, noting it as a practice of devotion and self-discipline that surprisingly enhances his mental clarity.
The Cornerstone of Self-Discipline
Beyond specific practices, PM Modi’s overall fitness is deeply rooted in his rigorous self-discipline and structured daily routine. He is known for consistently waking up early and adhering to a strict schedule, which allows him to integrate his wellness practices seamlessly into his demanding professional life. His commitment to a healthy lifestyle serves as a powerful reminder that mindful eating, regular exercise, and consistent self-discipline are crucial for well-being at any age.
As he marks his 75th year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s sustained vitality stands as a testament to the profound impact of combining ancient Indian traditions with a modern, disciplined approach to health and wellness.