Prime Minister Narendra Modi has frequently spoken of his strong bonding with Varanasi, his parliamentary constituency, and has called it a city of worship, culture, and spirituality. He has pointed out in different speeches that Kashi (Varanasi) is very special to him and in the context of his political life as well. He has also called the city the "cultural capital of the world" and spoken of its metamorphosis under his rule.
While campaigning and giving public speeches, PM Modi has insisted several times, "Kashi belongs to me, I belong to Kashi," expressing his own and religious identification with the city. He considers himself to represent Varanasi due to Lord Vishwanath's and people of Kashi's blessings.
He has launched several development projects in Varanasi over the years, such as the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, infrastructural developments like ring roads and ropeways, medical facilities, and ghat beautification. These are all aimed at integrating tradition and modernity while enhancing tourism and economic development in the area.
PM Modi has also encouraged people of Kashi to be an active part of creating a "new Kashi" as part of a developed India. His calls usually appeal to youth, women, and farmers, whom he believes are major stakeholders in nation-building.
The Prime Minister's efforts and engagement with Kashi represent his wider vision for cultural conservation along with modern development.
