Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni recently released her autobiography, I Am Giorgia: My Roots, My Principles, where she shares her personal and political journey from a modest neighborhood in Rome to the highest office in Italy. Making this autobiography even more special for Indian readers is the foreword written by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. By describing Meloni’s life as her “Mann Ki Baat,” Modi draws a unique parallel between the Italian leader’s reflections and the popular radio program in India where he connects with the public directly on issues close to their hearts.

What is a Foreword?
A foreword is an introductory note written by someone other than the author, often providing context, endorsement, or personal reflection. In this case, PM Modi’s foreword serves as both an endorsement of Meloni’s leadership and a bridge connecting her values to Indian cultural principles. It’s more than a mere introduction it’s a personal acknowledgment of courage, conviction, and public service.

A Story of Courage and Conviction

In his foreword, PM Modi emphasizes that Meloni’s journey is not just about political power, but about her dedication to serving the people of Italy. He writes, “Over the last 11 years, I have had the privilege of engaging with many world leaders. Prime Minister Meloni’s story is truly remarkable. It’s not just a personal journey; it’s a tale that resonates with enduring ideals that transcend cultures.” Meloni’s rise from a local Roman neighborhood  to Italy’s premiership highlights  determination  and an unwavering sense of purpose. PM Modi praises her  approach to leadership, her ability to uphold Italy’s interests on the global stage, and her focus on public service over personal ambition.

Connecting Leadership with Nari Shakti

One of the most striking aspects of PM Modi’s foreword is his connection of Meloni’s leadership with the concept of Nari Shakti, the revered power of women in Indian culture. He writes, “Prime Minister Meloni has remained rooted in her values and traditions while embracing the global stage with confidence. Her leadership embodies Nari Shakti, a force that is not only powerful but also nurturing and compassionate.” By linking Meloni’s leadership style to the principles of women’s empowerment in India, Modi highlights a shared global value: leadership is most impactful when it combines strength with empathy and care for the community. 

Meloni’s autobiography also emphasizes her belief in defending cultural heritage while engaging with the world. PM Modi notes that this approach reflects values deeply ingrained in Indian society: balancing tradition with modernity.  This duality valuing heritage while embracing global responsibilities is a recurring theme in Modi’s own leadership philosophy. By drawing these parallels, the foreword becomes more than praise it becomes an opportunity for readers to see commonalities between Indian and Italian leadership values.

Strengthening India-Italy Ties

Beyond personal admiration, PM Modi’s foreword subtly reinforces the strong cultural and diplomatic ties between India and Italy. He writes, “Our nations are joined by a respect for tradition and an embrace of modernity. This is the bedrock of my own personal friendship with Prime Minister Meloni.” Both nations share an appreciation for heritage, community, and the nurturing role of women in society. The foreword positions Meloni not just as an Italian leader but as a figure whose principles and values mirror those cherished in India. 

The Viral ‘Melodi’ Bond

The camaraderie between PM Modi and Meloni has sparked widespread social media interest. The hashtag #Melodi, coined by Meloni, has gone viral, reflecting public fascination with the friendship and mutual respect between the two leaders. Social media users have celebrated this bond as a rare example of genuine personal connection between world leaders, highlighting the human side of diplomacy that often goes unnoticed in official narratives.

Inspiring Leaders Worldwide

Ultimately, PM Modi’s foreword conveys a universal message: leadership grounded in values, empathy, and dedication to public service can inspire across borders. Meloni’s story, as framed by Modi, becomes a source of lessons for current and future leaders: the importance of purpose over partisan politics, compassion for the people, and the courage to remain true to one’s principles. 

For Indian readers, this foreword is both an introduction to a global leader and a mirror reflecting shared human ideals. It encourages young leaders, especially women, to embrace public service while remaining grounded in cultural roots and moral principles. From courage and conviction to cultural preservation and Nari Shakti, the foreword connects global leadership with human principles that transcend nationality. It is a celebration of personal integrity, public service, and cross-cultural friendship—a true example of how political biographies can inspire and connect people around the world.