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Special on the Birth Centenary Year of Atalji
His speeches carried poetic charm, his thoughts had remarkable depth, and his personality exuded an appeal that made him immortal in the hearts of the people. Atal Ji was a unique blend of determination and humility in the realm of politics. He did not view politics merely as a means to gain power but as a tool for social service.
Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee was not only a towering leader but also a farsighted and sensitive politician who deeply understood the pulse of the people. His speeches carried poetic charm, his thoughts had remarkable depth, and his personality exuded an appeal that made him immortal in the hearts of the people. Atal Ji was a unique blend of determination and humility in the realm of politics.
He did not view politics merely as a means to gain power but as a tool for social service. His speeches had the ability to touch people’s emotions. When he spoke in Parliament, his words resonated with the audience, leaving a lasting impact. He consistently prioritized public welfare, with policies focusing on the poor, farmers, youth, and women empowerment. Atal Ji broke the dominance of the Congress, which had maintained absolute rule post-independence, and provided a strong political alternative to the citizens of the world’s largest democracy. At a time when Congress was dominant across the country, it was a daunting challenge for a new party like the Jana Sangh and a young leader like Atal Ji to make an impact.
When Atal Ji was elected to the Lok Sabha in 1957, the Jana Sangh did not pose a significant numerical challenge to Congress. However, through his visionary ideas and strong leadership, Atal Ji transformed the Jana Sangh into a formidable
When Atal Ji was elected to the Lok Sabha in 1957, the Jana Sangh did not pose a significant numerical challenge to Congress. However, through his visionary ideas and strong leadership, Atal Ji transformed the Jana Sangh into a formidable ideological force, making numbers secondary. His speeches and ideas directly challenged the Congress’s stronghold and shook its foundations
ideological force, making numbers secondary. His speeches and ideas directly challenged the Congress’s stronghold and shook its foundations.
As Prime Minister, Atal Ji made several historic decisions that changed the trajectory of the nation:
• National Highway Development Project (Golden Quadrilateral): This initiative proved to be a milestone in India’s economic and social development.
• India’s Nuclear Tests (Pokhran-2): Under Atal Ji’s leadership, India established itself as a nuclear power in 1998, strengthening its global position.
• Peace Efforts on the Kashmir Issue: He sought to resolve the Kashmir problem with his mantra of Insaniyat, Jamhooriyat, and Kashmiriyat (Humanity, Democracy, and Kashmiri Identity).
• Revolution in the IT and Telecom Sector: His tenure saw remarkable progress in these industries, laying the foundation for India’s future technological advancements.
Atal Ji dedicated his life to national interest, guided by the mantra of Nation First.
He remained committed to the welfare of the poor, farmers, and underprivileged communities. His initiatives, such as the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, were groundbreaking in connecting rural India with urban centers. Atal Ji was a politician who placed ethics and values at the forefront of politics. His vision, policies, and actions will always serve as a source of inspiration for India’s future generations. His patriotism, foresight, and poetic soul made him one of the greatest leaders in Indian politics
His leadership had the vision and ability to steer the country in a new direction. He broke away from conventional political traditions, establishing new ideals of purity and ethics in public life. Every word he spoke resonated with the common people. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has written about Atal Ji, stating that he deeply understood when to speak, how much to say, and when to remain silent—a skill he had mastered. As someone aptly said, “Which words are spoken where—if you have this art, then everything is heard.” Atal Ji exemplified this wisdom.
Atal Ji believed, “We should not live only for ourselves but also for others. Sacrifice as much as possible for the nation. If India remains weak and struggling, the world will not respect us. But if we are strong and prosperous in every way, the whole world will acknowledge us.” His principles and way of life continue to teach us that true success and respect come from dedication and selfless service to the nation.
Atal Ji’s poetic heart was reflected in his politics as well. His poetry expressed the emotions of the common man and his deep patriotism. His lines, such as “Haar Nahi Manunga, Raar Nahi Thanunga” (I will not accept defeat, nor will I engage in futile conflict), continue to inspire those facing struggles.
Despite political differences, Atal Ji’s personality transcended party lines. Even his opponents could not help but admire him. His speeches in Parliament blended logic with humor, captivating audiences. Due to his decency and gentleness, he was respected even by opposition leaders.
He remained committed to the welfare of the poor, farmers, and underprivileged communities. His initiatives, such as the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, were groundbreaking in connecting rural India with urban centers. Atal Ji was a politician who placed ethics and values at the forefront of politics. His vision, policies, and actions will always serve as a source of inspiration for India’s future generations. His patriotism, foresight, and poetic soul made him one of the greatest leaders in Indian politics.
Atal Ji was not just a person; he was an era. His life exemplifies how a politician can shape politics through public service, vision, and human sensitivity. His legacy will continue to inspire us forever:
“Main jee bhar jiya, main mann se maroon, lautkar aaunga, kuch se kyun daroon.” (I have lived fully, I will depart content, but I shall return—why should I fear anything?).
(The author is a former national secretary of BJP and currently in charge of Assam)