Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday visited the residence of veteran Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and former Deputy Prime Minister Lal Krishna Advani to extend birthday greetings as the senior leader turned 99 and entered his 100th year.
Advani, a recipient of the Bharat Ratna, is regarded as one of the key architects of the BJP’s rise as a major political force in the country.
During the meeting, PM Modi conveyed his wishes for Advani’s good health and longevity and recalled his significant contributions to nation-building, the growth of the BJP and decades of public service.
In a post on X, the Prime Minister described November 8 as a landmark occasion, marking Advani’s entry into his hundredth year.
“Today, November 8, is a landmark day. Respected L.K. Advani Ji enters his hundredth year. On this special occasion, my greetings to him. I’ve written an article in which I’ve highlighted his everlasting contribution to India,” PM Modi said.
The Prime Minister also recalled Advani’s journey, from experiencing the horrors of Partition and rebuilding his life to strengthening the Bharatiya Jana Sangh and building the BJP. He highlighted the veteran leader’s role in opposing the Emergency, leading the Somnath-to-Ayodhya Rath Yatra and serving in various government positions.
PM Modi also referred to Advani’s interests beyond politics, describing him as an avid reader, a prolific writer and someone with a deep appreciation for culture and cinema.
Tracing Advani’s political journey from his early association with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) to his decades-long parliamentary career, the Prime Minister praised his resilience, ideological commitment and adherence to the principle of ‘Nation First’.
He credited Advani’s leadership with strengthening the BJP’s organisational structure and nurturing generations of party workers across the country.
PM Modi also recalled Advani’s long-standing association with former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, describing their partnership as an example of leadership and cooperation that helped shape Indian politics.
Political leaders, Union ministers and BJP workers also extended greetings to Advani on the milestone occasion, acknowledging his contributions to public life and the party’s development.
(IANS Inputs)
