President Draupadi Murmu presented Lal Krishna Advani, the stalwart of Indian politics, with the prestigious Bharat Ratna at his residence. Vice President Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Defense Minister Shri Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, and Advani’s family members were among those present at the ceremony.
In her address, President Murmu hailed Lal Krishna Advani as a doyen of Indian politics, recognizing his unwavering dedication and exceptional leadership spanning over seven decades. Born in Karachi in 1927, Advani migrated to India in 1947 amidst the partition. Throughout his career, he championed the cause of cultural nationalism, leaving an indelible mark on the socio-political fabric of the nation.
President Murmu lauded Lal Krishna Advani’s role during the Emergency, highlighting his steadfast commitment to preserving India’s democracy in the face of authoritarian threats. As a parliamentarian, Advani’s belief in dialogue enriched the traditions of the Indian Parliament. His tenure as Home Minister and Deputy Prime Minister was marked by a steadfast commitment to the national interest, earning him admiration across party lines.
One of Lal Krishna Advani’s most significant contributions, President Murmu noted, was his tireless advocacy for the cultural revival of India, culminating in the historic reconstruction of the Shri Ram Temple in Ayodhya in 2024. This landmark achievement stands as a testament to Advani’s vision and perseverance in shaping national priorities.
President Murmu emphasized that Advani’s legacy extends beyond political leadership, as he played a pivotal role in reshaping India’s trajectory toward development while upholding its inclusive traditions. His achievements, she added, epitomize India’s innate talent and ethos of inclusivity.
The conferment of the Bharat Ratna upon Lal Krishna Advani not only honors his remarkable contributions to Indian politics but also serves as a recognition of his enduring legacy as a statesman and visionary leader.
