Maharaja Sayajirao University has introduced a new Sociology course studying Narendra Modi’s leadership and RSS influence

Vadodara

The Maharaja Sayajirao University in Gujarat’s Vadodara has added a new module called “Modi Tattva” to its Sociology syllabus for postgraduate students. The course, titled “Sociology of Patriotism,” aims to study Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership style, public acceptance and the role of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in society through a scientific and sociological approach.

According to Sociology Department head Dr Virendra Singh, the programme will analyse Modi’s leadership using the theory of “charismatic leadership” explained by sociologist Max Weber. He said similar leadership qualities were seen in leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King. Singh stated that PM Modi’s long political presence and strong public support make him an important subject for academic study.

The course will also examine topics including media and digital nationalism, citizenship and dissent, globalisation, and identity politics. Singh said these subjects would help students understand why Modi remains widely accepted among people across the country.

He added that policies like demonetisation, the digital revolution, FASTag and the Jal Shakti Ministry reflected Modi’s understanding of public needs and aspirations.

The new “Sociology of Patriotism” course will include four papers, each involving fifteen hours of teaching. The syllabus will also cover nationalism, nation-state concepts and cultural nationalism from a global viewpoint.

The course idea emerged during NITI Aayog-linked village surveys, where students observed RSS workers involved in development activities. This led the department to study the organisation sociologically. The syllabus will also include social reformers like Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and their contributions to society and governance.