I think it was in 2006, I had the privilege of meeting Chandrababu Naidu at his residence with some party workers which included my grand father. That was the first time I had met him in such private gathering of 3 to 4. Being an ardent follower and admirer of his smart governance, administrative skills and leadership qualities, I was bit nervous to meet my icon. Upon appointment confirmation with CBN an assistant lead us into his room. While we entered the room, CBN stood up with a cordial namaskar to the group. Everyone is introduced with formal shake hand. When it was my turn someone said “he is a software engineer”. The very next moment I could see glow in his eyes. He asked, “Software engineer?” I nodded my head as if I am dumb. May be, I did not expect him at least to look at me and talking to me was as something great and I was on cloud 9.
After few questions about the job and company, He asked me “What is your vision?”. Vision? me? Just with couple of years in my career, I haven’t anticipated that anyone would ask me my vision nor I had any at that point of time. That single question blew my mind. Here is a politician asking vision of an young engineer. For that matter, that was the first time anyone has asked me. I was like an illiterate lost in literary festival, stumbled, waiting for someone to rescue. Unconsciously, I have murmured something and he sensed my inconvenience and left me alone.
I felt very guilty later due to my silly answer and more than that I haven’t had any vision. I get goosebumps recollecting the incident. Here is a man who thinks way beyond our imagination, who sees future for people, a visionary. To me, he’s Steve Jobs of politics!
Now, I wonder, What if the same situation is replicated with other leaders like KCR, Jagan, Chiranjeevi or for that matter any other politician? Would they stand up inviting? Would they talk to me, If so, What would they ask me? Would they ask about my vision?