As Prime Minister Narendra Modi turns 76 on September 17, his food habits remain a subject of public interest. Over the years, PM Modi has spoken about his preference for vegetarian food, traditional Indian ingredients and fasting.
There is no publicly available evidence of a fixed daily meal plan prescribed for him. However, foods he has spoken about himself offer some insight into what features in his diet.
Makhana is a regular favourite
One food PM Modi has spoken about particularly often is makhana, or fox nuts. Earlier this year, he revealed how frequently he eats it, saying he consumes makhana “at least 300 out of 365 days" a year.
He also described it as a “superfood" and spoke about the potential for taking the Indian ingredient to global markets.
Makhana is commonly eaten roasted or used in Indian preparations. Its popularity has also grown in recent years as a snack option.
Moringa finds a place on his plate
Moringa, also known as drumstick leaves, is another ingredient associated with Modi's food habits. In a social media post, he discussed the nutritional value of moringa and recalled making parathas with its leaves himself.
The dish has since frequently featured in reports about the Prime Minister's food preferences. Unlike elaborate diet trends, moringa paratha is a traditional preparation using an ingredient commonly found in Indian households.
Khichdi, dhokla and vegetarian meals
Reports about PM Modi's diet have also mentioned foods such as khichdi and dhokla, along with fruits, vegetables and other simple vegetarian preparations.
These foods, however, should not be treated as a definitive daily menu. What emerges from his public comments is a preference for vegetarian and relatively uncomplicated Indian food.
Fasting is an important part of his routine
The Prime Minister has also spoken extensively about fasting. During his conversation with Lex Fridman, he said fasting heightens his senses and changes the way he experiences things. He described it as a practice connected to discipline, preparation and introspection.
He also explained that his fasting practices include periods during Navratri. According to the Prime Minister's account, during one Navratri period he consumes only hot water for nine days, while during Chaitra Navratri he follows a practice of eating one type of fruit once a day for nine days. He said these practices have been part of his life for 50 to 55 years.
Taken together, PM's public comments point to a food routine centred on vegetarian dishes, familiar Indian ingredients and fasting rather than a single prescribed diet.