Modi 3.0 Government Ministers Showcase Sartorial Diversity at Oath Ceremony

The swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's third term, dubbed Modi 3.0, was a spectacle of India's rich cultural diversity and political significance, held at the grand forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan. The event, attended by nearly 8,000 guests, including heads of state, political figures, business leaders, and celebrities, showcased the sartorial choices reflecting the country's traditions. From Assam's gamosa to the traditional galaband, the attire of the ministers being sworn in added an ethnic touch to the ceremony.

While Prime Minister Modi and a majority of ministers opted for Hindi during their oath-taking, including prominent names like Rajnath Singh, Amit Shah, Nitin Gadkari, and others, a notable number chose English. This included Nirmala Sitharaman and S Jaishankar among others. The choice of language and attire by the ministers underscored the blend of tradition and modernity that characterizes India.

The ceremony was not just about political formalities; it was a display of India's unity in diversity. Sarbananda Sonowal donned a gamosa, Chirag Paswan appeared in a black galaband with a tricolour-themed pocket square, and Jyotiraditya Scindia chose a black kurta-pyjama with a blue bundi. These choices highlighted the personal connections of the leaders with their cultural roots.

Prime Minister Modi's third consecutive term marks a historic moment, equalling the record set by Jawaharlal Nehru. The event was attended by international dignitaries from India's neighbourhood and beyond, including Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu and Nepal’s Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda. This international presence underscored the geopolitical significance of Modi's re-election.

The ceremony also attracted Bollywood stars like Shah Rukh Khan and Akshay Kumar, alongside industrialists such as Gautam Adani and Mukesh Ambani. Their attendance added glamour to the event but also signified the cross-sectional support for Modi's leadership.

Despite the grandeur, the ceremony saw limited participation from opposition leaders. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge was among the few who attended. This absence was noted amidst the celebrations that otherwise marked a moment of national pride and political achievement.

The swearing-in ceremony of Modi 3.0 was more than just a political event; it was a reflection of India's democratic ethos and cultural heritage. As Modi embarks on his third term, the support from various sectors of society and the international community highlights both the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for his government.