The event marked a new era of coalition politics for India's strongman leader, as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) faced an unexpectedly challenging election.

Modi, accompanied by BJP heavyweights Rajnath Singh and Amit Shah, reclaimed power amidst cheers from the massive crowds that had gathered to witness the historic occasion. This makes Modi only the second leader in India's history to achieve this remarkable feat.

The recently concluded polls, which spanned nearly two months and saw the results announced on Tuesday, saw the BJP emerge as the party with the most seats. However, they fell short of an absolute majority, necessitating a power-sharing arrangement with smaller regional parties. For the first time, Modi finds himself leading a government characterized by coalition partners who hold significant positions in the cabinet and ministerial roles.

Analysts predict that this new alliance with secular coalition parties could challenge Modi's previous authoritarian tendencies and curb his Hindu-first policies, which have shaped India since he assumed office in 2014. With the BJP's dependence on the coalition, the government's approach is expected to shift towards consensus-building rather than relying solely on a majority.

During discussions with the coalition parties, Modi highlighted the importance of achieving both majority and consensus in running the government and the nation at large. Despite opposition claims of defeat, Modi asserted, "We did not lose." However, he struck a conciliatory tone, acknowledging the need for a consensus to govern the nation effectively.

The opposition alliance, known as INDIA, surpassed expectations in the elections and secured over 230 seats, more than double their previous tally. The head of the Congress party, Mallikarjun Kharge, attended the ceremony as a representative of the opposition alliance, while other opposition leaders chose to boycott the event.

Notable dignitaries, including the prime minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, and the Sri Lankan president, Ranil Wickremesinghe, attended Modi's swearing-in ceremony. Renowned industrialists Gautam Adani and Mukesh Ambani, who share a close relationship with Modi, were also present, as well as Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan.

With a new coalition government in power, India enters a pivotal phase, as Modi's leadership faces the challenges of diverse perspectives and demands. As his third term commences, the world watches to see how the coalition politics will shape the future of India under his leadership.