Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed warm birthday greetings to BJP leader Lal Krishna Advani on his 97th birthday.

PM Modi lauded Advani as one of “India’s most admired statesmen,” acknowledging his dedication to India’s progress and expressing gratitude for the guidance he has offered over the years.

“Best wishes to Shri LK Advani Ji on his birthday. This year is even more special as he was conferred the Bharat Ratna for his service to the nation. Among India’s most admired statesmen, he has devoted himself to furthering India’s development. I am fortunate to have received his guidance for many years,” Modi shared on social media.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also joined in the celebrations, highlighting Advani’s role in strengthening the BJP. Shah praised Advani for transforming the BJP into “a symbol of public welfare,” citing his unique blend of public service and organizational expertise. He said, “Under his leadership, the BJP became strong and widespread. His contributions as the former Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister are highly inspiring.”

In a social media post on X, Amit Shah wrote, “Heartiest birthday wishes to Bharat Ratna respected Lal Krishna Advani ji. Advani ji played an important role in making BJP a symbol of public welfare by displaying his unique public service and organisational skills.

Advani, a key figure in the BJP’s rise, served as Deputy Prime Minister under PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee from 2002 to 2004. In March, President Droupadi Murmu conferred him with the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, in recognition of his decades of service.

Born in Karachi on November 8, 1927, Advani joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in 1942 and later became a founding member of the BJP. His tenure as the BJP National President from 1986 to 1990, 1993 to 1998, and 2004 to 2005 marked him as the party’s longest-serving president since its inception in 1980.

(ANI)