Swamiji to sardarji: When Modi disguised himself to evade arrest

New Delhi: Covert activities, innovative tactics and code words for secret meetings like 'Chandan ka Karyakram' - the unconventional methods used by a young RSS pracharak, and now PM, during Emergency had left many surprised, even authorities.

'The Emergency Diaries - Years that Forged a Leader', published by BlueKraft, chronicles Modi's role after speaking to several people associated with him at that time.

Evading detection as a member of the banned RSS during Emergency, Modi travelled in disguises - in one instance as a "swamiji" to visit a jail to speak to incarcerated activists. He was there for nearly an hour, according to the book, released at an event to mark 'Samvidhan Hatya Diwas' by home minister Amit Shah.

In the book, RSS volunteer Hasmukh Patel talked about Modi's keen mind for innovative outreaches, noting that he suggested placing anti-Emergency literature in barber shops where people from different walks of life gathered, and with religious leaders as followers came to listen to them.

"He not only ensured regular publication of anti-Emergency literature, but also took on the perilous responsibility of distributing it throughout Gujarat. His 'sardarji' disguise was so convincing even his close acquaintances failed to recognise him," the book said.

Long-time RSS volunteer Nagar Bhai Chavda said Sangh members often organised meetings and called them 'Chandan ka Karyakram'. Modi introduced them to these terms, he said, adding that the young pracharak carefully selected houses where they met. For example, during Emergency, Modi would only stay in houses with two or more exits.