Monday, March 20, 2023

PM Modi popular among Chinese netizens.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is reverentially called "Modi Laoxian" meaning "Modi, the immortal" by Chinese netizens, a rare respectful reference to an international leader, the bitter India-China border row notwithstanding! This has come out in an article in the US-based strategic affairs magazine 'The Diplomat'. 

In this article, 'How is India viewed in China?', Mu Chunshan, a journalist known for analysing Chinese social media , especially Sina Weibo (akin to Twitter in China), also said that India led by Modi can maintain a balance among major countries in the world. Sina Weibo has over 582 million active users. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has an unusual nickname on the Chinese internet : Modi Laoxian.

"Laoxian refers to an elderly immortal with some weird abilities. The nickname implies that Chinese netizens think Modi is different, even more amazing than other leaders. They point to both his dress and physical appearance, seen as Laoxian-like and some of his policies, which are different from India's previous ones", says Mu.

On India's relations with other major countries, whether it is Russia, the US or Global South countries, India can enjoy friendly ties with all of them, which is very admirable to some Chinese netizens.

The word 'Laoxian' reflects the complex sentiment of the Chinese people toward Modi, combining curiosity, astonishment and perhaps a dash of cynicism. 

"I have been doing international media reports for nearly 20 years and it is rare for Chinese netizens to give a nickname to a foreign leader : Modi's nickname stands out above all others. Clearly, he has made an impression on Chinese public opinion", Mu said.

My take

Great to know this! This is the acceptance of PM Modi as the tallest leader in the world today!!


Tailpiece.

Got up with the feedback from Lekha that she has developed a sore throat! Immediately sought an appointment with Dr (Mrs) Sodhi. We met her at 9 and bought the medicines. Lekha was, thus, on medicines from the morning itself.

A quiet day to begin with.

Saw a part of Mammootty's "Christopher" on prime video. It has the right tempo!

The evening chores.

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