Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, recently made a candid appearance on filmmaker Farah Khan's YouTube vlog, sharing surprising anecdotes from his personal life and political career. The conversation took a humorous yet revealing turn, highlighting the minister's dedication to infrastructure development, even when it hit close to home.
"Just Like a Man": The Forgotten Anniversary
The light-hearted interview, which also featured Gadkari's wife, Kanchan, began with a classic marital faux pas. When Farah Khan asked the minister how long he had been married, a momentarily confused Gadkari deferred to his wife, saying, "I think that she (Kanchan) will tell you." Khan immediately quipped, "Just like a man, he has forgotten his wedding anniversary." Kanchan Gadkari promptly corrected the record, reminding everyone that the couple has been married for 41 years. The minister did, however, redeem himself by recalling their wedding date.
When Duty Calls: The Family Home Demolition
The conversation took a more dramatic turn when Farah's cook, Dilip, repeatedly requested the minister to build a "small road" in his village. An irritated Khan jokingly suggested Gadkari build a road straight through Dilip's house. At this point, Kanchan Gadkari interjected with a poignant family memory. "Then he won't have his house anymore. Just like my father lost his home," she said.
A shocked Farah Khan looked at the minister for an explanation. Gadkari smiled and confirmed the story, revealing that he had indeed demolished his father-in-law's house because a road extension project required it. When asked if he built a new home for him, Gadkari replied matter-of-factly, "No new home. I just gave him the compensation." This stark example underlined the minister's no-nonsense approach to his infrastructure duties.
The Perks of Power: A Chinese Food Anecdote
Gadkari shared another story that illustrated the influence that comes with his ministerial position. He recounted a recent visit to Kolkata where he enjoyed the Chinese food at a particular restaurant. He liked it so much that he asked the chefs to train his personal cook. When the restaurant refused, citing policy, Gadkari inquired if they knew who owned the land their restaurant was built on.
Upon learning they did not, he informed them that the land belonged to the Kolkata Port Trust and, as the Shipping Minister, he effectively owned it. He then jokingly threatened to cancel their lease if they didn't comply with his request. Farah Khan laughed at the tale, remarking, "You used your power at the correct time."
The minister, who has become a popular internet personality with over 1.32 million YouTube subscribers, used the platform to showcase a blend of personal vulnerability and professional steadfastness. The stories from Farah Khan's vlog offer a rare glimpse into the personal sacrifices and unexpected perks that define the life of one of India's most high-profile ministers.
