The Hindutva movement, advocating Hindu nationalism, has been a significant political force in India since its inception in the 1920s. The Bharatiya Jana Sangh, established in the 1950s, was the primary political party representing this ideology. In 1977, the Jana Sangh merged with other parties to form the Janata Party, but this coalition disintegrated by 1980. Following this, former members of the Jana Sangh regrouped to form the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Over the decades, the BJP steadily grew its support base and has become the most dominant political force in India. In September 2013, Narendra Modi, then the Chief Minister of Gujarat, was announced as the BJP's prime ministerial candidate for the 2014 Lok Sabha (national parliamentary) elections. This decision initially faced opposition within the party, including from BJP founding member L. K. Advani.

The BJP's strategy for the 2014 elections marked a departure from its traditional approach, with Modi playing a central role in a presidential-style campaign. This strategy proved successful in the 16th national general election held in early 2014. The BJP, leading the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), achieved a significant victory, securing an absolute majority and forming the government under Modi's leadership.

The mandate received by the Modi government allowed the BJP to make significant gains in subsequent state assembly elections across India. The government launched various initiatives aimed at boosting manufacturing, digital infrastructure, and cleanliness. Notable among these were the Make in India, Digital India, and Swachh Bharat Mission campaigns. These initiatives reflect the Modi government's focus on modernization, economic development, and infrastructure enhancement, contributing to its popularity and political strength in the country.