Modi vs Bhagwat: Will Age Decide Their Political Future in 2025?

Mohan Bhagwat and Narendra Modi both turn 75 this year. Is retirement looming? Explore the political buzz and implications of their age milestone.

Sachin Kumar

22 days ago

Modi vs Bhagwat

“Should Leaders Retire at 75?”: Mohan Bhagwat’s Remark Sparks Modi Retirement Debate

The Age Question Stirring India’s Political Landscape

The Indian political sphere is abuzz with speculation after Mohan Bhagwat, the chief of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), recently suggested that leaders should step aside upon turning 75. This statement, made during a book launch in Nagpur, has ignited a firestorm of debate—especially since both Narendra Modi and Mohan Bhagwat are set to reach that age milestone in September 2025.

The timing couldn’t be more politically charged. With Modi’s birthday on September 17 and Bhagwat’s on September 11, the remark has led many to question whether this was a subtle nudge toward the Prime Minister or a broader ideological statement.

Leadership, Legacy, and the 75-Year Threshold

Modi Age and Political Longevity

At age 75, the Prime Minister remains the face of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), with no official indication of stepping down. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has previously clarified that there is no retirement clause in the BJP constitution, asserting that Modi will continue to lead until 2029.

Mohan Bhagwat Age and RSS Traditions

Unlike the BJP, the RSS does not have a formal retirement age for its Sarsanghchalak. Mohan Bhagwat turning 75 is not necessarily a trigger for resignation, as past leaders have served well into their late seventies unless health concerns dictated otherwise.

Political Reactions and Speculations

Opposition leaders have seized the moment. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh and Shiv Sena’s Sanjay Raut have openly questioned whether Modi will apply the same retirement rule to himself that was used to sideline senior BJP figures like LK Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi.

The BJP, however, has dismissed these speculations, calling Bhagwat’s comment a general observation rather than a directive. Still, the timing and context have fueled theories of a power recalibration between the RSS and BJP.

Why This Is Trending Right Now

  • Both Modi and Bhagwat turn 75 in September 2025, making the age remark highly relevant.

  • Bhagwat’s statement was made at a public event, amplifying its impact across media and political circles.

  • Opposition parties are using the remark to question Modi’s leadership continuity.

  • RSS-BJP dynamics are under scrutiny, with speculation about internal power shifts.

FAQ Section

Q: What did Mohan Bhagwat say about retirement? A: He stated that turning 75 is a signal to step aside and make way for others, referencing RSS ideologue Moropant Pingle.

Q: Is Narendra Modi retiring this year? A: There is no official confirmation. BJP leaders have stated Modi will continue to lead until 2029.

Q: When were Modi and Bhagwat born? A: Mohan Bhagwat was born on September 11, 1950, and Narendra Modi on September 17, 1950.

Q: Is there a retirement age in BJP or RSS? A: BJP has no formal retirement clause. RSS leaders typically step down only due to health issues.

Q: What is the Margdarshak Mandal? A: A BJP advisory body formed in 2014, often seen as a retirement space for senior leaders above 75.

Final Thought

As Mohan Bhagwat and Narendra Modi approach a pivotal age, the question of leadership transition looms large. Whether Bhagwat’s remark was a philosophical reflection or a strategic signal, it has undeniably stirred a national conversation. In a country where age and experience are revered, the debate over political retirement at 75 is not just about individuals—it’s about the future of governance, ideology, and generational change.