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How Modi micromanaged the photo-op with Obama

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THE CYNIC
THE CYNICJan 26, 2015 | 12:38

How Modi micromanaged the photo-op with Obama

Narendra Modi is a micro-manager and everybody knows that. Modi Sarkar runs on micro management. No minister dare say anything original unless it has been sanctioned by the big M himself. And the other thing that Narendra Modi is very aware of and good at, is managing TV appearances. Like any seasoned TV personality, he is very aware of camera angles and line of view. 

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So on January 25, a little before 10 Am when the big blue and white Air Force One, was parked on the tarmac at Palam, Modi arrived to welcome POTUS. He was there in pyjama kurta, with his bright red lucky 'dupatta' blowing in the wind, and he needed to ensure that the events got recorded for posterity and at a nice visible angle. 

But there was a hitch! 

The big Beast was there parked right on the red carpet to receive its master and the PM of India had only minutes to get it moved. The US President's personal limousine, airlifted from America for the specific purpose, was blocking the view to history. When the POTUS and FLOTUS walked down the stairs, and Modi greeted them, the TV cameras stationed far away and in a straight line with the aircraft stairway, would not be able to get a clear shot of Modi's glory while receiving the honoured guests. 

Time was running out and as the PM of India waited for the noble 'appearances' he almost frantically gestured at the minions there, he then spoke to the newly 'unveiled' US Ambassador to India - Richard Verma. It was very apparent in mute that Modi wanted the limo to be moved - it was blocking the TV cameras. The expectation was that Verma being of Indian origin would understand Modi's concerns. The US Amby gestured to someone who came at a fast clip - for all we know maybe that was a secret member of the US secret service. Verma was seen conveying to the 'secretive' person about the Prime Minister of India's request. But this was one micro-managing that seemed to be failing. The Beast stayed put…bang in the middle of the red carpet. Maybe the US security wanted the armoured car there on purpose - it is after all a powerful shield. 

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But then there is no getting away from the Indian prime minister when his mind is made up. Minutes after the Obamas stepped on Indian soil, Modi holding on to Obama's hand steered them to the leeward side of the offending Limo. And there they were - the leaders of the largest and the biggest democracies, shaking hands and smiling and sharing pleasantries. The wind tugged at Michele's hair as it did the red and lucky 'dupatta' that Modi wore. What a cute threesome tableau, for the Republic to see and for the cameras to record in full sight. 

Modi the quintessential performer had done it once again - ensured that the camera angles were perfect whenever the focus is on him creating history.

Last updated: January 26, 2015 | 12:38
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