I respect PM Modi: Pitroda says it’s Congress problem if it objects to his Diwali greetings

Mangalore Today News Network

New Delhi, November 14, 2026: Overseas Congress chief Sam Pitroda has reiterated his respect for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing him as a “fellow Gujarati” and saying their differences are political rather than personal.

Speaking in an interview with the media, a day after the two exchanged Diwali and Gujarati New Year greetings, Pitroda said wishing the Prime Minister was a matter of courtesy and should not be viewed through a political lens.

“I respect the PM, and that’s why I wished him. He is a fellow Gujarati and this is courtesy,” Pitroda said.

Asked whether his gesture could invite objections within the Congress, Pitroda said it was up to the party to decide whether it had an issue with him wishing Modi.

“It’s the Congress problem if they have an issue with me over this,” he said.

Personal Respect Does Not Mean Political Agreement

Pitroda clarified that having a personal equation with Modi did not mean he agreed with the Prime Minister’s political views.

“I may have a personal equation, but that does not mean that we have to agree with his political views,” he said.

He also said he had not met Modi in 15 years, but stressed the need to maintain courtesy despite political differences.

“I think we need to show this courtesy and work together, as this is what people expect from us. After all, he is the PM of our country,” Pitroda said.

Modi, Pitroda Exchange Festive Greetings

Prime Minister Modi extended Diwali and Gujarati New Year greetings to Pitroda on Thursday through a post on X.

“Happy Diwali and Nutan Varsh Abhinandan to you Sam Bhai and to Anjana Ben. Praying for a joyful and healthy year ahead. Jai Jagannath!” Modi wrote.

Pitroda responded by thanking the Prime Minister and reciprocating the greetings.

“Thank you very much for the greetings Narendra Bhai. We reciprocate the same and wish you healthy years ahead,” he wrote.