Kolkata, 24 April (H.S.) : Prime Minister Narendra Modi remained in the spotlight amid the intense West Bengal election campaign as he was seen in a different and more personal avatar on Friday morning at a Kolkata ghat on the banks of the Ganga.

After drawing attention earlier in Jhargam for eating jhalmuri, the Prime Minister on Friday took a boat ride on the river and interacted with people gathered at the ghat. A large crowd assembled after his sudden arrival. In a notable moment, Modi stepped beyond formal protocol, met local residents, spoke with them, and warmly hugged a man who appeared emotional while sharing his personal struggles. Pictures of the moment quickly went viral on social media.

On Thursday, the Prime Minister had addressed massive public rallies in Nadia and South 24 Parganas, visited Belur Math, and held a grand roadshow in Howrah. He later spent the night at Raj Bhavan, now referred to as Lokbhavan.

Early Friday morning, Modi reached the riverfront and offered prayers to Maa Ganga. He also enjoyed a boat ride and was seen carrying a camera, capturing scenic views of the riverbank, Howrah Bridge, and the surrounding landscape. The images soon became a major talking point online.

Sharing the photographs on X, the Prime Minister wrote that the Ganga holds a special place in the hearts of Bengalis. He said the river is not merely a water body, but a cultural stream flowing through the soul of Bengal. According to him, the sacred waters of the Ganga carry the timeless consciousness of an entire civilisation.

During his time at the riverfront, Modi also met local boatmen and morning walkers. He praised the hard work, discipline, and dedication of the boatmen, calling them inspirational.

The Prime Minister said the visit to the Hooghly riverfront was an opportunity to express gratitude to Maa Ganga and to reaffirm the commitment to work together for the development of West Bengal and the prosperity of its people.

Earlier on Thursday evening, Modi had led a massive roadshow from Howrah to Kolkata that witnessed huge public participation. He said the desire for change was clearly visible across Bengal. The Prime Minister is also scheduled to address two more public meetings on Friday.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh