PM Modi gets netizens talking with quick stop for jhalmuri in Bengal

On April 19, during a packed day of election campaigning in West Bengal, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a spontaneous stop at a small roadside stall in Jhargram, West Bengal. In between rallies, he stepped out of his convoy and asked for a plate of Jhalmuri, which is a popular Bengali puffed rice snack.

The PM approached the seller and said, “Bhai, hume apna jhalmuri khilao,” then began talking while waiting for his jhalmuri to be ready. The price of the dish was asked as well, “Kitne ka hota hai jhalmuri?” He insisted on paying Rs 10 from his own pocket despite the vendor’s hesitation.

During the interaction, when the vendor asked if he eats onions, Modi responded with a light remark, “Haan, pyaaz khaate hain, dimag nahi khaate bas,” which quickly became one of the most shared lines from the moment. 

The short video of the moment, posted on PM Modi’s official social media account with the caption “Jhalmuri Break in Jhargram”, has crossed 12M views. 

https://x.com/narendramodi/status/2045843596713349230?s=20

Alongside the video PM Modi also shared the jhalmuri with locals, including women and children who had gathered around the stall. 

https://x.com/narendramodi/status/2045833173934960854?s=20

Social media users reacted with a mix of humour and appreciation. Comments like “PM Modi taking a jhalmuri break was not on my bingo card,” “From chai to jhalmuri… PM Modi knows how to make simple things iconic,” and “This 10rs will now get framed in this shop and kept there.”

Others wrote, “simple moments like this go viral instantly,” and “this clip is unexpectedly wholesome.” Some users focused on the interaction itself, saying “This is why people love Modi ji. Even after so many years, he still connects with common people like this,” and “Jhargram wale bhai ka dukaan ab international ho jayega.” A few added lighter takes like “jhalmuri just got a national spotlight,” “best ad for street food ever,” and “campaigning but make it snack break.” 

Many users praised it as an example of grounded leadership and relatability during a high-intensity election campaign.