For The History Books: Modi Delivers Longest-Ever I-Day Speech

NEW DELHI – In a moment that blended symbolism with sheer stamina, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made the nation’s political history on August 15 by delivering the longest-ever Independence Day address from the Red Fort.

Speaking for 1 hour and 43 minutes, Modi’s 2025 speech became a rhetorical marathon — weaving together policy announcements, national pride, and flourishes of poetic nationalism. The address surpassed his own record of 98 minutes set in 2024, and even his earlier benchmark of 96 minutes in 2016.

Modi’s oratorical feat stands in sharp contrast to the brevity of his predecessors.

Jawaharlal Nehru’s iconic “Tryst with Destiny” in 1947 lasted less than 20 minutes yet remains etched in history for its lyricism.

Indira Gandhi seldom crossed the 40-minute mark, while Rajiv Gandhi kept his tech-oriented addresses crisp.

Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s speeches, though often 50 minutes long, felt timeless with their philosophical pauses.

Two-term Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, known for his methodical style, delivered his longest speech at about 55 minutes.

Modi’s marathon speech underscored his preference for expansive communication. (IANS)