A statement released by the world-famous Madame Tussauds wax museum on Wednesday was proof that it had thorough researched its latest muse, acknowledging his penchant for mobile photography.
“Guests will be able to stand shoulder to shoulder and measure up to one of the most powerful men in the world – and even grab a selfie when the figures arrive in their locations,” the museum said.
The 180-year-old institution on Wednesday announced that a wax figure of Prime Minister Narendra Modi will soon be installed at its branches in London, Singapore, Hong Kong and Bangkok in late April.
With Madame Tussauds known for its attention to detail, the figure will feature Modi "dressed signature Kurta in cream with jacket and he will be featured in a traditional pose making a namaste gesture", according to a press release from the museum.
“I have visited Madame Tussauds three or four times and had the pleasure of getting myself photographed standing next to the figures of various dignitaries,” Modi is quoted as saying.
He also admitted to having reservations. “Madame Tussauds has crafted figures of very distinguished dignitaries from around the world – how could I regard myself worthy of being alongside them?,” he added. “But when I was informed that the decision had emanated from public opinion and public sentiment, I was comforted.”
A video uploaded on YouTube shows a team of artists and experts taking measurements of the prime minister during one of the fitting sessions earlier this year.
Meanwhile, the news saw humour and sarcasm flow freely on social media, including references to Modi's frequent foreign trips and the time he appeared to push Facebook co-founder Mark Zuckerberg for getting in the way of a photograph. Here's a selection:
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