Leading by Example: A Look Back at Swachh Bharat's First Celebrity Nominees

In October 2014, India embarked on a transformative journey towards cleanliness and sanitation with the launch of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission) by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Central to this initiative was the concept of leading by example, inspiring citizens across the nation to actively participate in the drive towards a cleaner and healthier environment. As a symbolic gesture of this ethos, Prime Minister Modi kickstarted the campaign in the national capital by nominating nine prominent personalities from diverse fields of entertainment, sports, and business. He challenged each nominee to draw nine more individuals into the initiative to create a chain for change. It was a testament to the power of leadership, collective responsibility, collective action, and community engagement in effecting positive change on a national scale.

Let's take a nostalgic glimpse at some of these torchbearers who exemplified the spirit of Swachh Bharat through their actions.

Sachin Tendulkar: Beyond his legendary status in cricket, Tendulkar graciously embraced Prime Minister Narendra Modi's invitation to become an ambassador for the 'Swachh Bharat' campaign actively participating in the cleanliness drive by sweeping a road. Expressing his commitment to the cause, Tendulkar also led by example, rallying enthusiastic youngsters to clean alongside him for the campaign. He also emphasized the link between a clean India and a healthy one, proposing that "Swachh Bharat" and "Swasth Bharat" go hand in hand. 

Priyanka Chopra: As a global icon, Priyanka Chopra leveraged her immense popularity to raise awareness about sanitation issues. Her involvement brought the message of Swachh Bharat to international audiences, showcasing India's commitment to societal transformation.

Salman Khan: Known for his philanthropic endeavors, Salman Khan's endorsement of Swachh Bharat resonated deeply with his fans. His ability to connect with people from all walks of life helped bridge the gap between the campaign and the masses. He had also outlined plans to nominate 100 followers monthly for the cause, signifying his sincere contribution. Further, he had initiated a clean-up drive in Karjat, doing his bit for change. Khan had also informally expressed to the BMC his interest in establishing mobile toilets through his foundation ‘Being Human’ to eradicate open defecation in Mumbai.

Team Tarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah: The collective involvement of the sitcom's cast demonstrated the power of popular culture in driving social change. Their lighthearted approach to addressing serious issues resonated with audiences of all ages. Being the sole television show nominated by the PM, the cast has shown their commitment to responsibility by actively educating viewers on maintaining cleanliness in their surroundings. When offered the opportunity to host the red carpet event at the 60th Filmfare Awards, their immediate thought was to utilize it as a platform to further advocate for ‘Clean India’. Taking a unique approach, the stars pledged their dedication to cleanliness by placing their hands on a broom, effectively spreading the message even on the glamorous red carpet.

Anil Ambani: Despite belonging to the corporate industry, Anil Ambani’s participation underscored the importance of corporate social responsibility. His willingness to roll up his sleeves and engage in community-driven initiatives emphasized that leadership transcends financial success. In this context, Anil Ambani's continued dedication to philanthropy despite facing financial challenges serves as a reminder that true leadership is about resilience and integrity. His commitment to making a positive impact, regardless of adversities, is a testament to his character and vision. It also exemplifies the spirit of Swachh Bharat and reinforces the importance of leading by example. As he prepares for a potential comeback, Ambani's involvement in initiatives like Swachh Bharat reaffirms his status as a leader who prioritizes societal welfare above personal gain.

Along with them, other celebrities involved were Shashi Tharoor, Kiran Bedi, Amitabh Bachan, etc. who brought their unique strengths and perspectives to the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, reinforcing the notion that leadership is multifaceted and inclusive. Their collective efforts kickstarted a nationwide movement and laid the foundation for a more conscientious and responsible society.