OpenAI CEO Expresses Discomfort Over Narendra Modi Amid Global Tech Discussions

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman described feeling confused and uneasy during an onstage interaction with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi. In an interview with Moneycontrol, Altman recalled the moment, explaining that he was unsure how to respond when Modi grabbed his hand, leaving him uncertain about what was expected.

The India AI Impact Summit 2026 gathered some of the world’s leading figures in artificial intelligence to discuss emerging AI models, regulatory frameworks, and the broader societal impact of AI technologies. Despite the summit’s focus on innovation and policy, the most widely shared moment was a staged photo opportunity where senior AI leaders were arranged in a 14-person hand-holding formation on stage.

Intended to symbolize unity and collaboration, the staged pose quickly drew attention online for appearing awkward and forced. The clip went viral, sparking criticism that the moment prioritized optics over the substantive discussions of the summit. Observers worldwide expressed discomfort, with many questioning the appropriateness of turning an international AI event into a choreographed display.

Indian social media users also shared mixed reactions, with some describing the scene as a politically managed spectacle that distracted from the summit’s content. The viral footage included Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei standing alongside Altman. Both leaders appeared hesitant to fully participate in the hand-holding formation, instead raising a fist as a compromise, which disrupted the intended pose.

The hesitation drew attention because OpenAI and Anthropic are considered two of the most prominent companies in artificial intelligence. Anthropic, co-founded by Amodei after his tenure at OpenAI, is often seen as a direct competitor, highlighting the tension in orchestrating staged displays involving rival AI executives.