Prime Minister Narendra Modi shakes hands with President of Seychelles James Alexis Michel in Mahe, Seychelles during his visit earlier this month. (Press Trust of India)
A little-known newspaper in the Seychelles has managed to get Prime Minister Narendra Modi's to open up about his personal life.
In the interview to Today newspaper during his Seychelles visit earlier this month, the Prime Minister describes himself as "an avid reader" who unwinds with "a task completed in time and its entirety." He lists his hobbies as "meeting people" and spending "time reflecting in solitude."
When asked if he can cook, the 64-year-old says, "For the most part, I have led a somewhat austere life, always on the move and living on my own. This meant I had to learn cooking and subsequently it became a habit.
By nature, I like to do a thing well, and I tried the same while attempting to cook! But it has been 15-20 years now. Nevertheless, I did it once when I was the Chief Minister of my home state."
Among his earlier memories, he says is serving "tea to the soldiers in transit when our country was fighting a war." And the most important lesson he has learnt? "From my hardships, a heart that works and hands that deliver."
The transcript of the interview has been posted on his website.