Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday met veteran Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and Bharat Ratna awardee Lal Krishna Advani at his residence in New Delhi to extend birthday greetings, wishing him good health and a long life.
In a post on X, PM Modi said, “Greetings to Shri LK Advani Ji on his birthday. A statesman blessed with towering vision and intellect, Advani Ji’s life has been dedicated to strengthening India’s progress. He has always embodied the spirit of selfless duty and steadfast principles. His contributions have left an indelible mark on India’s democratic and cultural landscape. May he be blessed with good health and a long life.”
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also conveyed his wishes, calling Advani “an inspiration for millions of BJP workers.” In his message on X, he said, “As a founder member and former national president of the BJP, ‘Bharat Ratna’ LK Advani Ji has dedicated his entire life to the nation with utmost selflessness. From strengthening the party at the grassroots to enhancing the country’s internal security as Home Minister, his contribution remains unparalleled. His leadership during the Ram Janmabhoomi movement awakened national consciousness across India.”
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar extended his greetings as well, noting that Advani’s “distinguished leadership, vision and lifelong dedication to the nation continue to inspire us all.” Former Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu personally visited Advani at his residence to convey best wishes, describing him as a “towering figure in Indian politics” and “a father figure” to him.
Born on November 8, 1927, in Karachi (present-day Pakistan), Advani joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) as a Swayamsevak in 1942. Educated at St. Patrick’s School, Karachi, and Bombay Law College, he began his career in journalism before entering politics, emerging as one of India’s most influential leaders and thinkers.
Advani served as BJP National President for three terms – from 1986 to 1990, 1993 to 1998, and 2004 to 2005 – making him the longest-serving president in the party’s history. He held key positions in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led government, serving as Home Minister from 1999 to 2004 and as Deputy Prime Minister from 2002 to 2004.
In recognition of his exceptional contributions to Indian politics and public life, Advani was conferred with the Bharat Ratna, the country’s highest civilian award, by President Droupadi Murmu in March 2024.
Over a parliamentary career spanning nearly three decades, LK Advani has been widely admired for his integrity, ideological commitment, and lifelong dedication to strengthening India’s democratic and cultural foundations.
(With agency inputs)