PM Modi Pays Tribute to Atal Bihari Vajpayee on His Birth Anniversary: “Excellence Comes from Conduct, Not Position”

New Delhi: On the occasion of the 101st birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid heartfelt tribute to the late leader, calling his life a source of inspiration for all.

In a special post on X (formerly Twitter), PM Modi said, “Honourable Atal Ji’s birth anniversary is a unique opportunity for all of us to draw inspiration from his life. His conduct, grace, ideological steadfastness, and unwavering commitment to the nation set an ideal benchmark in Indian politics. He proved through his life that excellence is established through conduct, not position, and it is conduct that guides society.”

Timeless Wisdom

Sharing one of Vajpayee’s favorite Sanskrit maxims, PM Modi wrote:

“Yadyadacharati shresthastatadevetero janah, sa yatpramanam kurute lokastadanuvartate”

This highlights that the world follows those whose actions are exemplary.

Remembering a Voice of the Nation

PM Modi also shared a video of his past speeches, emphasizing Vajpayee’s ability to express the hopes and aspirations of the common citizen. “When Atal Ji spoke, the nation spoke. His words were not just the voice of the BJP but the voice of India itself,” the Prime Minister said.

Legacy and Achievements

PM Modi noted that India can never forget Vajpayee’s contributions, particularly in strengthening the nation’s nuclear capability. Whether as a party leader, parliamentarian, minister, or Prime Minister, Vajpayee set high standards of leadership and integrity in every role he undertook.

Nationwide Commemorations

Across India, the BJP is organizing events to honor Vajpayee’s legacy. As part of these celebrations, PM Modi will inaugurate the “Rashtra Prerna Sthal” in Lucknow, featuring bronze statues of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee, and Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay, along with a modern museum highlighting their contributions to nation-building.

Remembering the Prime Minister

Born on 25 December 1924 in Gwalior, Atal Bihari Vajpayee served as India’s Prime Minister three times between 1996 and 2004. Known for his eloquence, statesmanship, and vision for good governance, his birth anniversary is also observed by the government as Good Governance Day (Sushasan Diwas).