Has brand Modi acquired cult status?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi turned 69 on Tuesday and spent his birthday in his home state of Gujarat offering prayers to goddess Narmada at the Sardar Sarovar dam filled to capacity for the first time, visiting the Statue of Unity and sharing a meal with his mother.

PM Narendra Modi, who was greeted by leaders across the political spectrum, used the occasion to further his mission to put development first.

PM Modi's 69th birthday events were closely watched by his supporters in India and around the world. His supporters organised grand celebrations across India with massive sweets and cakes. At separate events in Delhi, BJP leaders cut 69-kg and 370-kg cakes, symbolising his age and scrapping of Article 370 of the Constitution.

Has brand Modi acquired cult status? What explains PM Modi's spell on people? Watch the debate here.