Smriti Irani (SI): Greetings, Ma’am. With your permission, I would like to start by asking: Recently, the citizens of our country saw you in the metro. What was the experience like as the president?
Her Excellency Droupadi Murmu (DM): As the president of the country, I wanted to experience how the common man lives. I had a personal interest in taking a ride on the metro to see how it feels and to understand its design. With the growing population and the need for metro systems in metropolitan and densely populated cities, I wanted to feel the convenience it offers. The metro system is considered one of the most efficient and largest in the world. When you experience such systems personally, you can provide valuable feedback to the government.
SI: We saw that you interacted with school children in the metro, especially girls. As a former teacher, how did it feel to interact with these young students?
DM: I felt very good because it had been a long time since I had interacted with students in this manner. I used to be a teacher from 1994 to 1997, but since then, I hadn’t had the opportunity to engage with students in such a setting. It was delightful to hear their stories, songs and ambitions. In today’s selfie era, people often ask for selfies with public figures. Even though protocol generally prohibits it, I respect the public’s feelings.
SI: Reflecting on your childhood, when you look at the grand building you now reside in, did you ever imagine as a girl from a village that you would reach such a prestigious constitutional position?
DM: No, I never imagined such a future. I was an ordinary girl from a village, just like others, playing, running and going to school. At that time, I didn’t think about becoming something big or reaching such a position. My dreams were simply to study and find a job. It wasn’t a common aspiration for girls in those days, but things changed with time.
SI: You come from a tribal family in a rural area, and education was a rare dream for girls then. How did your perspective evolve?
DM: My grandmother, who lived in Jamshedpur, always emphasised the importance of education. She used to say that as a girl, I would have to face more struggles in life and must prepare for it. Education was the key to overcoming these challenges. Even though it was difficult, I believed that over time, things would become easier.
SI: Your childhood experiences involved a lot of discipline, including instances of scolding and punishment. How do you view this in the context of modern parenting?
DM: Discipline was necessary then, but today’s children grow up in a different environment. They mature mentally at a young age and understand many things earlier. Therefore, modern parenting requires a balance of love and discipline. While discipline was important in my time, today’s approach may focus more on nurturing and guiding children with understanding and support.
SI: I’ve heard that your name, Droupadi Murmu, was given to you by a teacher rather than your family. Is this true?
DM: Yes, it is true. My family had originally given me the name Durga. However, a teacher from another district, who wasn’t fond of the name, suggested Droupadi instead. My father agreed, and so, the name Droupadi was adopted.
SI: Your father was a village head (sarpanch) during the British era. How did that exposure to politics and administration influence you?
DM: My father and grandfather were involved in local administration, but my own exposure to governance came later. I have interacted with local leaders at various levels, and I have seen the difference between the British system and the current democratic system. Today’s elected leaders have more power and respect from the community compared to the appointed ones of the past.
SI: When you meet grassroots democratic leaders today, what advice or insights do you share with them?
DM: I emphasise the importance of serving the people with dedication and respect. As they are elected by the people, they should work for their welfare, honour their trust and address their needs with compassion and commitment.
SI: You are known for your maternal approach towards the staff at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Can you share more about this?
DM: I believe in treating everyone at Rashtrapati Bhavan as family. Whether they are from the lowest or highest ranks, they are part of our extended family. I celebrate festivals with them and offer support when needed. Creating a family-like environment helps in maintaining harmony and respect.
SI: You have a deep connection to your cultural heritage. Can you tell us about the significance of the song “Vande Utkal Janani” and its role in your life?
DM: “Vande Utkal Janani” is a tribute to the state of Odisha, honouring its cultural and historical significance. It is a song that expresses reverence for the land and its heritage. It holds a special place in my heart, and I often recall it during important events to honour my roots and the cultural legacy of my state.
SI: When you saw the new Parliament building and the symbolic transfer of the Sengol (staff of authority), what were your thoughts and feelings?
DM: The transfer of the Sengol was a profound experience. It represented the continuity of our democratic traditions and the reverence for our constitutional values. Entering the new Parliament building, I felt a deep sense of responsibility and respect for the sacred role it plays in our democracy.
SI: You have had a diverse career, starting in the Irrigation Department and later becoming a teacher. How did you adapt to these different roles?
DM: Life often brings unexpected changes. I adapted by embracing each role with dedication and a willingness to learn. Whether working as a junior assistant or a teacher, I viewed every role as an opportunity for growth and contribution.
SI: When you became president, how did your former students react to your new position?
DM: My former students were very happy and proud. Many of them reached out to me, and it was heartwarming to see their support and admiration. It reminded me of the impact education can have on individuals and their lives.
SI: When you first heard that you were being considered for the presidency, you were reportedly difficult to reach by phone. Is that true?
DM: Yes, it’s true. At that time, my phone connection was unreliable, and I didn’t immediately realise the significance of the calls. When my family and staff finally managed to get in touch with me, I was informed about the nomination, which was both surprising and humbling.
SI: In 2007, you were honoured as the best legislator in the Odisha Assembly. After so much hard work and study, how does it feel to be recognised as the best legislator in your assembly?
DM: I did not prepare myself for such recognition, but I didn’t expect to receive the best legislator award. When I won for the second time, I did not get a ministerial position, so I had the opportunity to participate in every question and every constitutional business. I was chosen from among 147 members, so I want to thank everyone. It is rare for a tribal woman to receive such an honour. I made sure not to take any days off, as I had no one around to teach me; I learned everything on my own. I listened to all debates and learned from them.
SI: As an industry minister, you had served the state. Today, with the prime minister’s initiative of “Atmanirbhar Bharat” and “One District One Product”, what do you think about this policy?
DM: This is a very good initiative. The government thinks about public welfare, but it won’t be enough if only the government is involved. Every person must think about advancing independently. The government is providing support, but individuals must also make efforts. This combined effort is necessary—both from the government and the public. This effort leads to the country’s economic and social development.
SI: You mentioned in your speech that 30 crore women received Mudra loans. In your experience, especially in the context of women from ordinary families taking Mudra loans or working through initiatives like SWANITI, what are your thoughts on their capabilities and struggles?
DM: Men and women are both created by God and have equal mental and spiritual strength. Society used to underestimate women’s capabilities, but they also possess inner strength. With support like Mudra loans or appreciation, they are empowered and motivated to advance. I am pleased to see so many women becoming empowered. Nowadays, when I visit universities and colleges, I see that there are many women gold medalists with high percentages, which shows they are proving their capabilities.
SI: We saw you as a mother in the role of the president. Similarly, the prime minister, after losing his mother, continued to serve the nation without any hindrance. What is it that enables both of you to remain dedicated to national service despite personal losses?
DM: People are interested in hearing only the positive side, but everyone also experiences pain and loss. I, too, cry and feel sadness, but I have lost and gained many things. I am still learning to live well. When I was in depression, I was advised to practice yoga and live life fully. Even in the face of challenges, positivity helps. By focusing on positive aspects, one can avoid letting negativity take over.
SI: The prime minister refers to all citizens as family. In the Rashtrapati Bhavan, you are known for caring for everyone as a mother. Does a woman’s maternal instinct make her a distinct politician?
DM: This can vary from person to person. In my opinion, the maternal instinct plays a role in life because not everyone can be alone. It helps in moving forward, though family issues can sometimes be challenging. What you want to achieve and how you think determines your progress.
SI: When India got the opportunity to chair the G20, we certainly discussed economic systems, but we viewed the world from a family perspective. India’s chairmanship has added a familial dimension that has contributed to the G20’s history. How do you view India’s G20 chairmanship from this perspective?
DM: This is a very significant question. I would like to express my gratitude for the G20 theme: “One Earth, One Family, One Future”. India believes that the Earth cannot exist in isolation. All countries are like a family, and this perspective is essential for global peace. India’s diversity, with different castes, languages and religions, has shown the world how to live together harmoniously. G20 provided a platform for global leaders to engage in this spirit, including interactions in over 100 cities in India.
SI: You are not only the first tribal woman to be elected president, but are one of the youngest presidents in our history. Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently mentioned that you and he both came from rural backgrounds. When you return to your village, how do you feel seeing the people and the reactions to your presidency?
DM: When I returned to my village after becoming president, there was a great deal of excitement and celebration. People remembered me fondly, and it was heartwarming to see their pride. The affection and respect from my community were deeply moving.
SI: Regarding spirituality and modern infrastructure projects, such as the Ram Temple and the Kashi Corridor, how do you see the balance between preserving cultural heritage and advancing modern infrastructure?
DM: Spirituality is an integral part of our culture, and it is essential to preserve it while advancing modern infrastructure. Our spiritual beliefs provide a foundation that supports our development. New infrastructure projects such as the Ram Temple and Kashi Corridor are being developed with respect for our spiritual heritage, ensuring that our modern advancements honour our traditions.
SI: What message would you like to convey to the younger generation and the veterans who have served our nation?
DM: To the younger generation, I would say that our nation’s progress depends on your involvement and dedication. The sacrifices made by veterans should be acknowledged with gratitude. It is our responsibility to honour their contributions by working towards a better nation. The government’s commitment to veterans, including initiatives like One Rank One Pension, reflects our appreciation for their service.
SI: Finally, as you address the nation, what is your message for the upcoming elections and the responsibilities of citizens?
DM: This country belongs to all of us, and it is our collective responsibility to contribute to its growth and development. As citizens, it is essential to participate in elections thoughtfully and ensure that our actions help in building a prosperous nation.