Beyond politics: PM Modi heads to the jungle with adventurer Bear Grylls

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is taking up a new challenge, this time in the forests of India.

The 68-year-old leader will head out into the wilderness to 'create awareness about animal conservation & environmental change' with adventurer and 'Man Vs Wild' host Bear Grylls.

Edward Michael Grylls, popularly known as Bear Grylls, announced the news on his Twitter handle, on the occasion of International Tiger Day, with a video that shows PM Modi accompaning him into the wilderness.


"People across 180 countries will get to see the unknown side of PM @narendramodi as he ventures into Indian wilderness to create awareness about animal conservation & environmental change. Catch Man Vs Wild with PM Modi @DiscoveryIN on August 12 @ 9 pm. #PMModionDiscovery," he tweeted.

In the video, Modi can be seen holding a hand-made weapon carved out of wood, and also riding in a raft with Grylls. Another shot shows Grylls telling him, "You are the most important man in India, my job is to keep you alive."


According to a statement from the channel, the episode has been shot in the Jim Corbett National Park, and will be a "frank and freewheeling journey" which will throw light on wildlife conservation.

"For years, I have lived among nature, in the mountains and the forests. These years have a lasting impact on my life. So when I was asked about a special programme focussing on life beyond politics and that too in the midst of nature I was both intrigued and inclined to take part in it," the PM said in a statement.

"For me, this show presents a great opportunity to showcase to the world India's rich environmental heritage and stress on the importance of environment conservation and living in harmony with nature. It was a great experience spending time in the jungle once again, this time with Bear, who is blessed with indefatigable energy and quest to experience nature at its purest," he added.

Bear said it was a privilege to take the PM "on an adventure into the Indian wilderness."

"I feel truly honoured to get to spend time with this remarkable world leader. The wild reminds us that we need each other and that together we are stronger. I am so excited to spend time with the PM and to get to know the man who leads this great nation," Bear said.

According to media reports, Grylls had announced the news of his visit to India in January this year, but later deleted the post.

Earlier in April this year, Modi had indulged in a 'candid and completely non-political' interview with actor Akshay Kumar.

(With inputs from PTI)