PM Narendra Modi’s fuller beard during the pandemic has tickled the country’s imagination.
Each time he appears on screen, his beard looks visibly longer.
Political analysts have long been fascinated by beards.
Among the 13 male Prime Ministers of India, only four sported beards — Chandra Sekhar, IK Gujaral, Manmohan Singh and Modi.
A number of country heads across the world prefer a clean shaven look.
In India, sporting a beard has always carried a message.
While it is a sign of masculinity for some, others use it as a signal of asceticism.
Some are attributing Modi’s growing beard as a message to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary contact.
Being the PM, he does need to step out for meetings.
However, a visit to the barber is probably unnecessary and that’s what he is trying to convey.
Only time will tell if there is more to Modi’s growing beard.