Today is the Convocation of my Alma Mater, PDPU, Gandhinagar where PM @narendramodi is Chief Guest. As one of the earliest alumni of PDPU, I am filled with memories of my stay in Gujarat & meetings with Modi Sir, including when I presented him the Holy Quran. Here is my story.

My first interaction with @narendramodi sir happened by chance, after I sent him a Tweet on the functioning of his government and I was invited for a detailed meeting at CMO, Gujarat. That was the first of my 6 interactions with him. It includes travelling with him to Mehsana.

I came to Gujarat in 2008 to study in PDPU. That time, I was not happy with the idea of coming to Gujarat. In my mind, Gujarat meant riots and earthquakes. My friends told me to keep away from Gujarat. But, the state and my chats with Modi Sir changed my perception and mindset.

The daily newspapers around March 2010 were full of references to SIT inquiry reports which made me reach out to @narendramodi sir via twitter to know exact truth from the man himself. Lo and Behold, it was granted on 1st April, 2010 which was unexpected seeing my simple message.

I will never forget what Modi Sir told me in one of our meetings. He said, “I have done nothing for Muslims. But, please go on to note that I have done nothing for Hindus, Jains, Sikhs either. I am responsible for 55 million Gujaratis and whatever I do, is aimed at serving them.”

In Narendra Modi’s Gujarat I did not feel uncomfortable for a single minute. There was no uneasiness in the environment. Everything was in order. People were co-operative and helpful. Peace and tranquility could be felt in the environment. There was no prejudice, intolerance.

There was no impediment in my path because of my religion. I had no problem in dealing with the people while managing, conducting and getting sponsorships for over two dozen events in the college. Engineering life became a memorable journey and sky was the limit for me.

During my next meetings, @narendramodi sir continued to add that his vision is to make PDPU a lifeline in energy industry of India. His dream is to make India self-reliant in crucial oil and gas sector where we import over 80% of demand and make us an energy superpower.

He also added that he wants every youth to work for his heart. Follow your dreams with an open heart, mind and don’t give up. As a youth, you should be able to fight for anything wrong and then stand for the same without giving in to any fear and reward.

I won’t ever forget what Modi sir told me in December 2013- Do not give up, for the world will always put hurdles in your path. Make the hurdles your friend, if you want to make a mark in the long run. Follow your dreams, for nothing is unachievable in today’s world.

Today I am a professional, growing in my career. I have worked both in India and abroad. There is a big change in India’s image globally. I feel proud of that.What makes Modi sir special, I have written my book ON POINT (Upfront & Personal with common man) https://www.amazon.in/dp/9385440764/ref=cm_sw_r_wa_api_i_lvByFb0WWZ8N0