From hot water to moringa paratha: PM Narendra Modi's daily diet at the age of 75

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi turns 75. Apart from his political achievements, he is known for his disciplined lifestyle and diet. From moringa paratha to immunity-boosting kadha, he swears by all healthy foods to lead a healthy lifestyle. And as he turns 75 on September 17, we take a look at his dietary choices that keeps him fit and active at the age of 75.

In the most recent Lex Fridman podcast interview, he opened about his fitness routine and his daily food habits. Stressing on the importance of fasting he said that fasting "never slows me down". 74-year-old Modi, added, “I work just as much as usual. Sometimes, I even work more. And another fascinating thing I’ve noticed is that when I need to express my thoughts, I’m amazed at where they come from and how they flow. It’s truly an incredible experience. Fasting for me is devotion, fasting for me is self-discipline.”

During the podcast chat he mentioned about the tradition of Chaturmas and how the season defines his food habits and fitness routine. PM Modi said that he eats only a single meal within 24 hours between mid-June and November. He added, For about four to four and a half months, I follow this tradition of eating only once in 24 hours.

He also mentioned that during during the Shardiya Navratri, he “completely” abstains from food and only drinks hot water. He said, “Although drinking hot water has always been a part of my daily routine, my past lifestyle was such that I naturally developed this habit over time." It is said that sipping hot water encourages sweating and urination, both of which help flush out toxins from the body. This gentle detox effect can leave you feeling lighter and refreshed. Hot water can slightly raise metabolism and create a feeling of fullness, reducing overeating.

In a reel video on his Instagram, he had mentioned his love for Moringa Paratha that he enjoys quite often. Rich in antioxidants, moringa leaves protect against infections and oxidative stress. They also help reduce cholesterol and maintain healthy blood pressure. They are also rich in fiber and aid gut health and prevents constipation, and improve memory and reduces stress. Their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties help regulate blood sugar, support heart health, and aid in digestion. Traditionally, they are also known to enhance lactation in new mothers and improve overall vitality.

Also See: PM Narendra Modi eats neem leaves and mishri: Here's why you should too​

According to his 2021 post on Instagram, he swears by Ayurvedic foods and enjoys eating neem flowers, neem leaves, and mishri.

He is also a fan of khichdi, and as his social media posts reveal, in his early days he often cooked this comforting, simple, warm dish of lentils and rice. He enjoyed it as a nourishing, soft, soothing, aromatic, homely and filling meal, flavoured lightly with turmeric and ghee. This easy, gentle, traditional recipe remains a balanced, earthy and wholesome classic. Khichdi is rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants and a perfect mix of carbohydrates (rice) and protein (dal), often enhanced with vegetables and ghee. It is also recommended in Ayurveda and during fasting or illness to cleanse and reset the digestive system. The addition of turmeric, ginger, and ghee boosts immunity with their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

For a snack, he often enjoys a small yet satisfying portion of dhokla, the soft and spongy Gujarati delicacy made from a naturally fermented batter of besan, sooji, turmeric, and salt. Steamed gently until fluffy and golden, it offers a light, tangy, and savoury bite that feels both comforting and nourishing. A tempering of mustard seeds, green chillies, curry leaves, and aromatic oil not only enhances the taste but also adds antioxidants and important micronutrients. Besan is rich in iron, magnesium, potassium, folate, and vitamin B6, which help support energy, immunity, and long-term health. Its low glycemic index makes it a good choice for people managing diabetes, while the high fibre content improves digestion, reduces cholesterol, and promotes steady blood sugar levels. Fermentation further enhances the bioavailability of these nutrients and supports a healthy gut. With its balance of flavour, nutrition, and simplicity, dhokla stands out as a smart and wholesome everyday snack.