Nitish Kumar Attempts to Touch PM Modi’s Feet at Patna Airport; Viral Moment Marks His 10th Oath as Bihar CM

The incident occurred shortly after Nitish Kumar was sworn in as Bihar’s Chief Minister for a record 10th term, marking a major political milestone for the Janata Dal (United) leader. PM Modi had attended the ceremony, congratulating the 74-year-old leader on his historic return to office.

PM Modi Stops Nitish, Holds Him by the Shoulders

The video shows Nitish Kumar walking towards the Prime Minister, bending down in an apparent attempt to touch his feet. PM Modi quickly prevented the gesture, firmly holding Kumar’s shoulders and clasping his hands before moving towards the aircraft stairs. The brief exchange appeared cordial, but the moment triggered a firestorm of political commentary.

Opposition parties, including the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), shared the clip on social media, claiming that the chief minister sought the PM’s blessings. BJP and JD(U) supporters, on the other hand, called it a sign of respect rooted in age and tradition.

A Pattern Noticed Online

Social media users were quick to point out that this was not the first time Nitish Kumar had attempted the gesture.

• In November last year at an event in Darbhanga, he bowed before the Prime Minister in a similar manner.
• A few months later in Parliament’s Central Hall, he again attempted to touch Modi’s feet.
• Another notable instance occurred in April, during a Lok Sabha poll rally in Nawada.

Each time, PM Modi stopped him, preferring a handshake instead.

NDA Victory Sets the Stage

Nitish Kumar’s latest swearing-in comes after the NDA secured a strong majority in the Bihar Assembly. The BJP emerged as the largest party with 89 seats, followed by JD(U) with 85, while LJP(RV), HAM and RLM contributed to the alliance tally of 202 seats in the 243-member House.

Analysts say the NDA’s decisive victory reflects the combined appeal of both Modi and Nitish—leaders known for their governance-focused messaging and emphasis on women’s empowerment, themes that resonated strongly with voters.

A Moment That Raised Eyebrows

While Nitish Kumar’s gesture may be rooted in personal respect or political courtesy, the repeated pattern has sparked curiosity and debate. Whether seen as humility, tradition, or political symbolism, the moment at Patna airport has become one of the most talked-about visuals of the day.