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‘Hi friends’: Modi’s curious campaign to win over Gen Z

Al Jazeera · 2026-08-08

AI SUMMARY

• What happened: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is utilizing social media, particularly Instagram, to connect with Generation Z through relatable content and a friendly tone following recent protests by the Cockroach Janta Party. • Why it matters: This strategy reflects a significant shift in political communication, aiming to engage a younger demographic that is increasingly influential in shaping public opinion and electoral outcomes. • What to watch next: The effectiveness of Modi's social media campaign in resonating with Gen Z and addressing their concerns will be closely monitored, especially in light of the ongoing socio-political issues highlighted by recent protests.

**Title: Modi's Social Media Strategy Aims to Connect with India's Gen Z**

In an innovative move to engage with the younger demographic, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is leveraging social media platforms, particularly Instagram, to connect with Generation Z. This initiative comes in the wake of recent protests led by the Cockroach Janta Party, prompting the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to rethink its communication strategy.

Modi's approach involves creating relatable content aimed at younger audiences, utilizing late-night Instagram reels to foster a sense of camaraderie. By adopting a friendly tone and addressing his audience with phrases like "Hi friends," the Prime Minister seeks to present himself as an approachable figure rather than a distant political leader. This shift in communication style is significant, as it reflects an understanding of the importance of social media in shaping political narratives and engaging with younger voters.

The decision to target Gen Z is particularly strategic, given that this demographic is increasingly influential in shaping public opinion and electoral outcomes. With their distinct preferences and values, Gen Z represents a challenge for traditional political messaging. Modi's efforts to connect with them through informal and entertaining content may help bridge the gap between the government and young citizens, who often feel disconnected from mainstream politics.

The Cockroach Janta Party's protests, which have garnered attention for their unconventional name and approach, highlight a growing discontent among younger voters regarding various socio-political issues. In response, the BJP's campaign aims to address these concerns while simultaneously building a rapport with this crucial voter base.

As Modi continues to experiment with social media strategies, the effectiveness of his efforts to resonate with Gen Z remains to be seen. However, the initiative marks a notable shift in how political leaders in India are adapting to the evolving landscape of communication and engagement in the digital age.

Source: Al Jazeera
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