Lucknow, Dec 24: On Tuesday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh attended the inaugural ceremony of the ‘Atal Yuva Mahakumbh’ and praised the lasting legacy of former Prime Minister and Bharat Ratna recipient Atal Bihari Vajpayee as a source of inspiration for the nation.
In his address at the event held in honor of Vajpayee’s birth centenary, Singh reminisced about the former prime minister’s remarkable character and shared personal anecdotes from his time with him.
“The sun that rose on the political horizon of India on December 25, 1924, continues to shine today,” he stated. “Atalji’s name and deeds are well-known not just in India but across the globe,” he remarked.
Singh recalled an amusing incident from Vajpayee’s visit to Pakistan, where a female journalist joked that she would marry him if he gave her Kashmir as a dowry. Vajpayee, with his characteristic wit, replied, “I’m ready if you bring all of Pakistan as dowry.” His response showcased his sharp intellect and humor.
“Atalji’s extraordinary personality commanded global admiration for his leadership style and decisions. Lucknow held a special place in his heart, and the connection with its people was profound,” he added.
Reflecting on his own experiences with Vajpayee, Singh shared, “I was fortunate to gain his guidance while serving alongside him in the Cabinet. When his government fell by a single vote, Atalji’s poignant speech redefined notions of patriotism and democracy. He famously said, ‘Governments will come and go, parties will form and disband, but this nation and its democracy must remain eternal.’ His words highlighted his vision and steadfast principles.” The defence minister also lauded the cultural displays and performances by children during the event at KD Singh Babu Stadium, which celebrated Vajpayee’s life.
“These performances were incredibly moving,” he remarked. “Atalji’s contributions and ideals remain guiding lights for our youth.” Singh further commended Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s leadership, asserting, “Today, Uttar Pradesh outpaces many other states in various development aspects. Under CM Adityanath’s dynamic leadership, UP is progressively moving towards realizing Atalji’s vision of a prosperous and advanced state.” (PTI)
Lucknow, Dec 24: On Tuesday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh attended the inaugural ceremony of the ‘Atal Yuva Mahakumbh’ and praised the lasting legacy of former Prime Minister and Bharat Ratna recipient Atal Bihari Vajpayee as a source of inspiration for the nation.
In his address at the event held in honor of Vajpayee’s birth centenary, Singh reminisced about the former prime minister’s remarkable character and shared personal anecdotes from his time with him.
“The sun that rose on the political horizon of India on December 25, 1924, continues to shine today,” he stated. “Atalji’s name and deeds are well-known not just in India but across the globe,” he remarked.
Singh recalled an amusing incident from Vajpayee’s visit to Pakistan, where a female journalist joked that she would marry him if he gave her Kashmir as a dowry. Vajpayee, with his characteristic wit, replied, “I’m ready if you bring all of Pakistan as dowry.” His response showcased his sharp intellect and humor.
“Atalji’s extraordinary personality commanded global admiration for his leadership style and decisions. Lucknow held a special place in his heart, and the connection with its people was profound,” he added.
Reflecting on his own experiences with Vajpayee, Singh shared, “I was fortunate to gain his guidance while serving alongside him in the Cabinet. When his government fell by a single vote, Atalji’s poignant speech redefined notions of patriotism and democracy. He famously said, ‘Governments will come and go, parties will form and disband, but this nation and its democracy must remain eternal.’ His words highlighted his vision and steadfast principles.” The defence minister also lauded the cultural displays and performances by children during the event at KD Singh Babu Stadium, which celebrated Vajpayee’s life.
“These performances were incredibly moving,” he remarked. “Atalji’s contributions and ideals remain guiding lights for our youth.” Singh further commended Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s leadership, asserting, “Today, Uttar Pradesh outpaces many other states in various development aspects. Under CM Adityanath’s dynamic leadership, UP is progressively moving towards realizing Atalji’s vision of a prosperous and advanced state.” (PTI)
