PM Modi on Mann ki Baat talks about track rivalry with Gurindervir Singh and Animesh Kujur

Prime Minister Narendra Modi heaped praise on India’s new sprint icons Gurindervir Singh and Animesh Kujur during the 134th episode of Mann Ki Baat for their historic, record-breaking performances at the Federation Cup in Ranchi. During the telephone conversation, the Prime Minister highlighted their unique sporting dynamic and celebrated the fact that the pair maintain a fierce rivalry on the track while remaining close friends and roommates off it.

Interaction ensued an unprecedented 48 hours in Ranchiwhere the national record for 100 meters was broken three times between the two athletes. Gurindervir eventually cemented his status as India’s fastest man and became the first Indian in history to break the 10.10 second mark after clocking a blistering 10.09 seconds.

RECORD BATTLE

The intense back-and-forth began during the semi-final at the Birsa Munda Stadium. Animesh entered the competition as the favourite, holding the previous national record of 10.11 seconds. However, Gurindervir crossed the line first, clocking 10.07 seconds in the opening semi-final heat to briefly claim the record.

Moments later, Animesh responded in the second semi by running an amazing 10.05 seconds to reclaim it. PM Modi likened the quick exchange to a musical duet where one performer lays down a challenge and the other immediately rises to fulfill it. Gurindervir then had the last word as he stormed to 10.09 seconds in the final.

FRIENDS YET RIVALS

Despite competing head-to-head for the country’s sprint crown, both athletes revealed their rivalry is built on mutual support. Gurindervir shared that even during the warm-up before the record race, he actively assisted Animesh by advising him on starting blocks and positioning.

However, Gurindervir made it clear that once the race starts, their friendship will take a backseat.

“The moment we step onto the track, we become competitors,” he told the prime minister. “Then the feeling is, ‘I’m going to run faster than him.’ But off the track we are friends.’

ROOMMATES WITH A COMMON MISSION

Animesh explained to PM Modi that their bond was strengthened while sharing a room during an international competition in Saudi Arabia. Off the track, the two sprinters realized they had a common goal: to change the perception of Indian sprinting and prove that Indians can compete with the best in the world.

They are committed to push each other to new heights and inspire the next generation of Indian sportspersons. Rather than allowing the rivalry to create resentment, they embraced it as a way to push each other forward and raise the standard of Indian sprinting.

PRAISE OF PM MODI

PM Modi applauded the sportsmanship of the pair and said their positive and competitive spirit is helping to uplift Indian athletics. He noted that they led by example by challenging each other while continuing to support each other’s growth.

The Prime Minister concluded the Mann Ki Baat interaction by congratulating both Gurindervir and Animesh for the upcoming Commonwealth Games. He expressed confidence in their abilities and said he was sure they would continue to work hard, break barriers and bring more glory to the country.

– The end

Issued by:

Amar Panicker

Published on:

31 May 2026 13:49 IST