In a heartwarming and emotional moment during his public meeting in Yamunanagar, Haryana, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Rampal Kashyap, a man from Kaithal who had kept a remarkable vow for 14 long years — to walk barefoot until he met the Prime Minister in person after his election to the country’s highest office.
Rampal Kashyap’s journey is one of unwavering devotion and faith. In 2010, years before Narendra Modi became the Prime Minister of India, Kashyap made a personal vow: he would not wear footwear until he had the honor of meeting Modi Ji as the Prime Minister. For over a decade, through scorching summers, chilling winters, and across daily life’s challenges, Kashyap stuck to his word, walking barefoot across towns and villages — a symbol of his dedication and belief.
On April 14, 2025, his long wait came to an end. At the Yamunanagar rally, PM Modi not only met Kashyap but also helped him wear shoes — fulfilling the vow and completing a deeply emotional chapter in Kashyap’s life.
The Prime Minister acknowledged this extraordinary gesture with humility and gratitude. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Modi wrote:
“At today’s public meeting in Yamunanagar, I met Shri Rampal Kashyap Ji from Kaithal. He had taken a vow 14 years ago—that he will only wear footwear after I became PM and he got to meet me.
I am humbled by people like Rampal Ji and also accept their affection, but I want to request everyone who takes up such vows—I cherish your love… please focus on something that is linked to social work and nation building!”
He also shared the same message in Hindi, adding:
“मैं ऐसे सभी साथियों की भावनाओं का सम्मान करता हूं, परंतु मेरा आग्रह है कि वो इस तरह के प्रण लेने के बजाए किसी सामाजिक अथवा देशहित के कार्य का प्रण लें।”
The moment symbolizes more than just a personal vow — it reflects the deep emotional connection and trust many Indians place in their leaders, especially in Modi Ji. However, the Prime Minister used this opportunity to encourage citizens to channel their dedication toward nation-building and social causes, rather than personal sacrifices.
Rampal Kashyap’s story is a powerful reminder of the spirit of devotion, resilience, and faith. It also emphasizes that meaningful actions — when directed toward the betterment of society — can bring about lasting change.
