Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and other leaders on Thursday condoled the demise of A. Balakrishnan, recalling his decades-long service to society and his contribution to education and nation-building, particularly in the Northeast.
In a post on X, PM Modi said, “Deeply saddened by the passing of Shri A. Balakrishnan Ji, who served as the All India President of Vivekananda Kendra. Balakrishnan Ji devoted more than five decades of his life to the ideals of Swami Vivekananda and to the service of society. As one of the early Jeevanvratis of Vivekananda Kendra, he worked tirelessly across the country. He had a particularly deep association with the Northeast. He played an important role in educational, social and nation-building activities.”
“My heartfelt condolences to the entire Vivekananda Kendra family and his admirers. Om Shanti,” the Prime Minister added.
HM Shah also expressed grief over Balakrishnan’s passing, describing him as a dedicated follower of Swami Vivekananda’s philosophy who worked to realise the sage’s ideals through Vivekananda Kendra.
He said Balakrishnan expanded the vision of the Kendra across India and helped nurture the nation through its civilisational wisdom. He said Balakrishnan’s life would remain an inspiration for generations.
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju recalled Balakrishnan’s contribution as a Jeevanvrati Karyakarta and president of the Vivekananda Rock Memorial and Vivekananda Kendra.
Rijiju particularly highlighted his pioneering contribution to education in Arunachal Pradesh, saying his selfless service would always be remembered by the people of the state and the country.
“A true Karmayogi whose life embodied the spirit of service,” Rijiju said while offering condolences to Balakrishnan’s family and admirers.
BJP president Nitin Nabin also mourned Balakrishnan’s death, recalling his dedication to the ideals of Swami Vivekananda and national service.
Nabin said Balakrishnan’s contributions to education and nation-building, particularly in the Northeast, would continue to inspire generations. He conveyed his condolences to the Vivekananda Kendra fraternity and all those who drew inspiration from his life and work.
