Today, November 8, 2024, marks the 97th birthday of Lal Krishna Advani, one of Bharat’s most influential political leaders and a prominent figure in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Born in Karachi (then part of undivided India) in 1927, Advani has journeyed through momentous periods in India’s history, standing as a pillar of the country’s democratic, cultural, and political evolution. His career, spanning nearly seven decades, has been defined by his dedication to Bharat’s progress, national unity, and integrity.
In a heartfelt message on social media, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his best wishes to Advani, celebrating his extraordinary legacy. PM Modi wrote: “Wishing Lal Krishna Advani ji a very happy birthday. This year is even more special because he was awarded the Bharat Ratna for his outstanding service to the nation. Advani ji has always been respected for his wisdom and rich insight. I am fortunate to have had his guidance for many years. I pray for his long and healthy life.”
Best wishes to Shri LK Advani Ji on his birthday. This year is even more special because he was conferred the Bharat Ratna for his outstanding service to our nation. Among India's most admired statesmen, he has devoted himself to furthering India's development. He has always been…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 8, 2024
PM Modi’s tribute highlighted the mentorship and support Advani has offered over the years, especially as the BJP gained significant ground in national politics. Awarded the Padma Vibhushan in 2015, Advani was bestowed with the Bharat Ratna in March this year, recognising his monumental contributions to Indian politics and society.
A life dedicated to national service
L K Advani began his political journey as a teenager in Karachi, joining the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) at age 14. His early life was marked by the impact of India’s Partition, which displaced millions and divided his homeland. Nevertheless, Advani’s patriotism and commitment to building a stronger, united Bharat remained unshaken. After relocating to Rajasthan, he continued his work as an RSS pracharak, advocating for India’s unity.
Throughout his career, Advani has held some of the highest positions in the Indian government, including serving as Home Minister and later as Deputy Prime Minister in Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s cabinet from 1999 to 2004. His tenure in these roles was characterised by efforts to strengthen internal security, promote social unity, and drive development across the nation.
One of Advani’s most defining contributions was his role in shaping the BJP into a national political force. After the party’s founding in 1980, he led it through challenging years, laying the foundation for its future success. Under his leadership, the BJP emerged as a formidable political entity. Starting with just two seats in the 1984 general elections, the party rose to win 86 seats in 1989 and 161 by 1996. The 1996 general elections marked a turning point as the BJP became the single largest party in the Lok Sabha, challenging the Congress Party’s longstanding dominance.
The Historic Ram Rath Yatra
In 1990, as caste-based tensions and communal politics threatened to fragment Indian society, Advani led the now-famous Ram Rath Yatra to unify the people under the symbol of Sri Ram. This yatra, which traveled across India, was more than just a political procession; it became a journey to the heart of Bharat, rekindling a sense of cultural pride, national identity, and unity.
The journey’s impact resonated deeply across the country, setting the stage for a movement that brought the BJP’s message directly to the people. It symbolised Advani’s vision of a “Rashtra Mandir,” a nation built on patriotism and nationalist fervor. His ability to connect with citizens and inspire unity remains one of the defining legacies of his leadership.
Celebrating the Nation’s Progress: Swarna Jayanti Rath Yatra
Marking fifty years of independence, Advani undertook another yatra — the Swarna Jayanti Rath Yatra — to celebrate Bharat’s progress and honor the sacrifices of its freedom fighters. This yatra was not only a celebration but also an effort to reignite the flame of patriotism and unity across the nation.
Throughout his illustrious career, LK Advani has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to his principles and a strong belief in the power of nationalism to transform Bharat. His journey from Karachi to Delhi, from an RSS Karyakarta to Deputy Prime Minister, reflects a life of service dedicated to strengthening the nation.
An individual with deep family ties and personal integrity, Advani once reflected on his life’s journey: “Nature dangles happiness and meaning before us all, insisting only that we choose between them, but I have had the good fortune of experiencing both, and in abundance.”
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