Kiren Rijiju Suggests Rahul Gandhi Needs Swimming Training

Itanagar, India Aug 24, 2026 ALN: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has frequently mentioned swimming as a key part of his fitness regimen. However, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju believes that the leader of the opposition in the Lok Sabha might require some training before attempting to swim in the gushing rivers of India. In a light-hearted post on X, Rijiju declared, “Mein yahan ka khiladi hun (I am the player here).”

The comments come amidst a series of playful exchanges between the two political adversaries regarding fitness, including a previous discussion in Parliament and a jiu-jitsu challenge issued by Gandhi earlier this year. This light-hearted rivalry has become a notable aspect of their interactions, showcasing a blend of personal interests and political engagement.

“Many people are saying that I’m also doing like Rahul Gandhi. Rahul ji may take training for such activities, but it’s a normal routine in my life. I don’t take training as these are child’s play for me since childhood. My life is full of adventures,” Rijiju stated, sharing a video of himself swimming in a river. His remarks highlight his confidence in his athletic abilities and his belief that such physical activities are second nature to him.

Rijiju cautioned, “Never go to deep water if you do not know swimming. Many people have drowned in the river. The rivers in India are huge and very deep.” This warning reflects a serious concern about water safety, particularly in the context of India's diverse and often unpredictable river systems. The rivers can vary significantly in their currents, depths, and conditions, making swimming in them potentially hazardous for those who are inexperienced.

In a subsequent video, Rijiju elaborated on the differences between swimming in rivers and pools, emphasizing the need for proper technique and awareness of one’s surroundings. “Some people might think swimming in the gushing rivers of India is like swimming in pools or calmer rivers like the Yamuna. In raging rivers, our head should be up, not down, and the body should be more upright, not straight as we keep in swimming competitions. Mein yahan ka khiladi hun,” he emphasized. This advice serves as a reminder of the importance of adapting swimming techniques to different environments, particularly in challenging natural settings.

When comparisons with Gandhi arose, Rijiju referenced his own childhood experiences in the water, suggesting that his familiarity with swimming stems from years of practice and adventure. This personal anecdote adds a layer of relatability to his comments, illustrating how early experiences can shape one’s confidence and skills in physical activities. In December of the previous year, he had shared a video of a conversation with Gandhi in Parliament, which marked the beginning of this playful exchange.

“Not talking politics, only fitness. I hope he will promote the #FitIndiaMovement,” Rijiju had remarked during their earlier conversation. The #FitIndiaMovement is an initiative launched by the Indian government to encourage citizens to prioritize physical fitness and healthy living. By invoking this campaign, Rijiju not only emphasizes the importance of fitness but also seeks to align their discussions with broader national goals of health and wellness.

During their dialogue, Gandhi inquired about Rijiju’s exercise routine and invited him to join in a workout session. Their discussions also touched on martial arts, with Gandhi suggesting they train together. This invitation reflects a willingness to engage in friendly competition and mutual encouragement, showcasing a bond that transcends their political affiliations.

In a subsequent Lok Sabha session during the Budget discussions in February, Gandhi recalled their earlier conversation, where Rijiju had asked him about his fitness practices. Gandhi shared his jiu-jitsu training as part of his fitness routine, using it as a metaphor to illustrate political strategies, describing how a fighter establishes a grip, moves to a choke, and eventually forces the opponent to tap out. This metaphor not only highlights Gandhi's commitment to fitness but also serves as a commentary on the nature of political battles, where strategy and agility are crucial.

The friendly banter continued in June when Rijiju extended birthday wishes to Gandhi on his 56th birthday. Gandhi responded, “Thank you for the warm wishes, Kiren Rijiju Ji. When are we doing our jiu-jitsu session?” This exchange further cements their rapport, indicating that despite their political differences, there exists a camaraderie rooted in shared interests and mutual respect.

This ongoing exchange between the two leaders reflects not only their personal fitness journeys but also a unique camaraderie amidst their political rivalry. In a political landscape often characterized by intense competition and conflict, their interactions provide a refreshing perspective on how personal interests can foster relationships, even among adversaries. It underscores the idea that fitness and health can serve as common ground, bridging divides and promoting a culture of well-being in a nation grappling with various challenges.

As the conversation around fitness continues to gain traction in India, particularly among public figures, the implications of such exchanges extend beyond personal anecdotes. They signal a growing recognition of the importance of physical health in public life and the potential for leaders to inspire citizens to engage in healthier lifestyles. This could ultimately contribute to a more health-conscious society, where fitness is viewed not just as a personal endeavor but as a collective responsibility.