Lal Krishna Advani, a stalwart in the political landscape of India. Has been honored with the Bharat Ratna, the nation’s highest civilian award. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in making the announcement, expressed deep admiration for Advani’s monumental role in India’s development, labeling him as one of the most respected statesmen of our times.
PM Modi acknowledged Advani’s contributions, highlighting his journey from grassroots activism to serving as the Deputy Prime Minister. He commended Advani’s transparency, integrity, and unwavering commitment to political ethics, describing the conferring of Bharat Ratna as a “very emotional moment.”
Born in Karachi and migrating to India after the Partition, Lal Krishna Advani’s early association with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) marked the beginning of a remarkable political journey. Joining the Bharatiya Jana Sangh in 1951, the political precursor to the BJP, Advani’s rise in Indian politics was gradual yet impactful.
Advani’s parliamentary career began in 1970 when he became a member of the Rajya Sabha, serving four terms until 1989. His first ministerial role, as the Minister of Information and Broadcasting and Leader of the House in Rajya Sabha, came in 1977 following the Janata Party’s victory.
A founding member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Advani’s leadership played a pivotal role in shaping the party’s destiny. Serving as the party president thrice, he became a Lok Sabha member in 1989. His influence reached its zenith when he served as the Minister of Home Affairs and Deputy Prime Minister in Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s government in 1999.
In 2015, Lal Krishna Advani was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian honor, recognizing his significant contributions to the nation. However, the recent Bharat Ratna has added another layer of prestige to his illustrious career.
Advani’s most notable moment came in 1990 when he embarked on the historic Ram Rath Yatra. Advocating for the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The Yatra, starting from Somnath in Gujarat and culminating in Ayodhya, garnered widespread support. This movement marked a turning point for the BJP, propelling it from a minor player to the second-largest party in the 1991 general elections.
The political landscape was forever altered by Advani’s Rath Yatra, as the BJP’s demand for the Ram Temple struck a chord with the masses. The resonance of this movement reverberated in the 1991 elections, catapulting the BJP to a prominent position in national politics.
I am very happy to share that Shri LK Advani Ji will be conferred the Bharat Ratna. I also spoke to him and congratulated him on being conferred this honour. One of the most respected statesmen of our times, his contribution to the development of India is monumental. His is a… pic.twitter.com/Ya78qjJbPK
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 3, 2024
The Bharat Ratna announcement for Lal Krishna Advani has prompted varied reactions from political circles. BJP leader Brajesh Pathak extended heartfelt congratulations, acknowledging Advani’s pivotal role in shaping the party’s trajectory. Pathak highlighted the transformative impact of Advani’s leadership, expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Modi for recognizing his contributions.
However, not all reactions were uniformly positive. Some critics pointed out that the recognition for Advani came late, given his instrumental role in laying the foundation of the BJP. Despite differences in opinion, there was a consensus that Advani’s influence on the BJP’s rise was undeniable.
BRS MLC K Kavitha suggested that with the Bharat Ratna conferred upon Advani, the BJP’s agenda. Including the construction of the Ram Temple, seems to be fulfilled. This sentiment captures the broader impact of Advani’s political journey. Where his vision and leadership played a crucial role in shaping the BJP’s narrative.
As we reflect on Lal Krishna Advani’s journey, it is essential to recognize the multi-faceted dimensions of his political career. From grassroots activism to the corridors of power, Advani’s trajectory exemplifies the essence of Indian democracy. His parliamentary interventions, noted for their rich insights, reflect a commitment to public service that spans decades.
The conferring of the Bharat Ratna on Advani is not just a recognition of his individual achievements. But also a celebration of the values he embodies – transparency. Integrity, and a relentless commitment to national unity. The emotional resonance expressed by Prime Minister Modi reflects. The deep impact Advani has had on the political landscape and the personal connections he formed over the years.
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In conclusion, Lal Krishna Advani’s journey from Karachi to the Bharat Ratna. Is a testament to the evolving dynamics of Indian politics. His role in shaping the BJP. Marked by significant milestones like the Ram Rath Yatra. Has left an indelible mark on the nation’s political history. As we celebrate his achievements, it is an opportune moment to reflect on the values. He championed and the enduring legacy he leaves behind. Lal Krishna Advani. The statesman, the leader, and now the Bharat Ratna – a journey etched in the annals of Indian political history.
