Taking inspiration from his own radio broadcast, Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has described the essence of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s autobiography as her own “Mann Ki Baat.”

Modi has penned the foreword for the Indian edition of I Am Giorgia — My Roots, My Principles (Rupa Publications), which is set to release soon.

Calling it a “great honour,” Modi wrote that he contributed to the book with “respect, admiration and friendship” for Meloni, whom he hailed as a “patriot and an outstanding contemporary leader.”

Reflecting on his decade-long interactions with world leaders, Modi noted that Meloni’s journey transcends personal experiences to embody universal truths.

“Her belief in defending one’s cultural heritage while engaging with the world on equal terms mirrors our own values,” he said.

The Prime Minister also praised Meloni’s unapologetic defence of womanhood, motherhood, and tradition, describing her memoir as “deeply personal” and a celebration of resilience.

He added, “We are bound by shared civilizational instincts like the defence of heritage, the strength of community and the celebration of womanhood as a guiding force.”

Originally published in 2021, when Meloni was an opposition leader, the memoir became a bestseller before her historic election as Italy’s first woman prime minister in 2022.

The US edition, launched earlier this year, carried a foreword by Donald Trump Jr, who highlighted her working-class roots and rise in politics.

Modi’s foreword also underscored the growing India-Italy partnership, which was elevated to a Strategic Partnership following Meloni’s state visit to India in March 2023.

The personal rapport between the two leaders has also sparked social media buzz, especially after the viral “#Melodi” trend during COP28.