The viral video showed the two leaders sharing a cheerful exchange at Prerna Sthal after honoring Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, offering a glimpse of camaraderie rarely seen between them.
A rare, light-hearted exchange between Narendra Modi and Mallikarjun Kharge caught attention at the Parliament premises on Tuesday, as leaders assembled to pay tribute to B. R. Ambedkar on his 135th birth anniversary. Ambedkar, the chief architect of the Constitution and India’s first Law Minister, was honored on the occasion.
In a video that quickly went viral, the two political rivals were seen sharing smiles and laughter at Prerna Sthal after offering floral tributes.
The brief exchange stood out amid their usual political differences, offering a rare glimpse of camaraderie during a solemn national occasion.
The footage shows the Prime Minister first greeting Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman C.P. Radhakrishnan before turning to Kharge.
As the two leaders shake hands, they engage in a warm, animated exchange, even breaking into laughter.
The interaction appeared relaxed and cordial, with other leaders present also seen smiling at the moment.
The Prime Minister then went on to greet other parliamentarians, staff, and security personnel at the venue.
What did they talk about?
Sources told India Today that during the interaction, Narendra Modi urged Mallikarjun Kharge to support the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, which aims to reserve 33 per cent of seats in Parliament and state assemblies for women by 2029.
Emphasising that the legislation is in the interest of women, the Prime Minister described it as a collective responsibility.
Kharge responded that he would take a stand after holding internal consultations within his party.
The interaction took place ahead of a scheduled parliamentary session from April 16 to 18, during which the amendment bill is expected to be introduced.
A tribute to Babasaheb Ambedkar
Earlier in the day, senior leaders including Narendra Modi, C. P. Radhakrishnan, Om Birla, and Mallikarjun Kharge paid floral tributes to B. R. Ambedkar at his statue within the Parliament complex.
Kiren Rijiju was also present on the occasion.
Ambedkar, widely regarded as the chief architect of the Indian Constitution and independent India’s first Law Minister, is remembered each year at Parliament, where leaders and citizens gather in large numbers to honour his legacy.
The brief yet notable interaction between Modi and Kharge added a lighter note to the ceremony, momentarily setting aside political differences on a day dedicated to one of India’s most influential nation-builders.