A Life of Simplicity and Dedication
Dr. Manmohan Singh, the 92-year-old former Prime Minister of India, remains a towering figure of simplicity, dedication, and humility. His life is a testament to the values of hard work, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the nation. In a recent interview with his Grandson, Randeep Singh Kohli, some lesser-known facets of his personality and habits came to light, painting a vivid picture of the man who silently shaped India’s economic and political landscape.
The Streets as a Classroom –
Born into modest means, Dr. Singh’s determination to educate himself was unshakable. As a young boy, he studied under the dim glow of streetlights when his home was bustling with guests or gatherings. Education was his sanctuary, and nothing could deter him from learning. This unrelenting dedication later propelled him to prestigious institutions like Cambridge and Oxford, where he honed his expertise in economics.
A Simple and Disciplined Lifestyle –
Even as Prime Minister, Dr. Singh led an exceptionally simple life. He adhered to a strict diet, eating only yellow dal and bitter gourd (karela) grown on his farm. This routine reflected his discipline and a deep connection to his roots. His love for his Maruti 800, which he continued to use despite holding the highest office in the country, exemplified his humility. The car was not just a vehicle for him but a symbol of his grounded personality.
Avoiding the Limelight –
Dr. Singh consciously stayed away from the limelight and social media, preferring to let his work speak for itself. Remarkably, he never owned a mobile phone, relying solely on landlines for communication. Despite his global stature and strong international relationships, he remained focused on his work, entertaining daily visitors who sought his advice on various issues.
Staying Out of the Spotlight –
Dr. Singh consciously avoided the limelight, focusing solely on his work. Unlike most public figures of his stature, he never owned a mobile phone, relying exclusively on landline connections. Social media and public appearances held little interest for him. Instead, he maintained strong international relations, hosting daily visitors seeking his advice on global and economic matters.
A Man of Principles –
Dr. Singh’s integrity was unwavering. He never leveraged his power for personal or familial gain. A memorable instance shared by Randeep highlights this: during a family outing to watch a movie, the theater staff refused to sell tickets. Unwilling to accept special treatment, Dr. Singh simply returned home, choosing principles over privilege. When visiting Amritsar, he would not disrupt local life by visiting relatives at their homes. Instead, he invited them to meet him at the circuit house, ensuring public roads and areas remained unaffected by his security convoy.
Service Above Self –
“Work for the country; it is our priority to serve the nation first,” Dr. Singh often said. This mantra defined his life. Despite his age, he continues to follow a disciplined routine, including daily workouts. His humility and dedication are evident in the fact that he holds the record for signing the most currency notes in India—a silent testament to his role in shaping the nation’s economy.
A Legacy of Inspiration –
Dr. Singh’s story isn’t just one of political achievements but also of personal values. From refusing privileges to prioritizing education, he remains an enduring symbol of what leadership should be. In an era of publicity-driven politics, his quiet strength and moral compass shine as a guiding light for generations to come. Dr. Manmohan Singh’s life reminds us that true greatness lies not in power but in humility and service.
