Dr. Manmohan Singh: A Humble Leader Who Balanced Power with Simplicity
Insights Into Dr. Manmohan Singh’s Humility and Simplicity
Asim Arun, a former IPS officer and current Minister of State in Uttar Pradesh, shared remarkable anecdotes about his time as Dr. Manmohan Singh’s bodyguard. Arun, who served as Singh’s close protection officer from 2004 during his tenure as Prime Minister, highlighted Singh’s profound humility and simple lifestyle despite holding a position of great power.
Arun recalled Singh’s fondness for his Maruti 800, which was often parked alongside the luxurious BMWs of the Prime Minister’s motorcade. Singh would frequently glance at his Maruti 800 and say, “Asim, I don’t like travelling in this car [the BMW]; that one is my vehicle. I am a middle-class person, and it’s my job to care for the common man.”
For Singh, the Maruti was more than just a car—it was a reflection of his connection to ordinary people. While the BMW symbolized the prestige and security of his role, the humble Maruti represented his simplicity and values.
A Disciplined and Lifelong Learner
Arun also spoke about Singh’s disciplined nature and dedication to learning. Known for his punctuality, Singh always prioritized study time in his daily schedule. He maintained a dedicated space at the Prime Minister’s residence for reading and note-taking, embodying the mindset of a lifelong student.
“Dr. Singh was always in ‘student mode,’ constantly reading, taking notes, and striving to learn. Despite being a leader of immense power, his humility and thirst for knowledge were inspiring,” Arun shared.
A Life of Lessons
Reflecting on his three years with Singh, Arun described it as a period rich with lessons. He admired how Singh managed to balance simplicity and humility with the enormous responsibilities of his position.
Arun retired from the IPS in 2022 to pursue a political career, but the memories of his time with Singh continue to influence him. “Being close to Dr. Singh taught me how power and responsibility can coexist with modesty and a commitment to the common man,” he said.
