PM Modi calls on LK Advani to greet him on his 98th birthday, says BJP patriarch’s service to India is monumental

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday called on former deputy prime minister and veteran BJP leader LK Advani to greet him on his 98th birthday, here.

Modi extended his warm wishes to Bharat Ratna awardee L K Advani on the occasion.

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“Went to Shri LK Advani Ji’s residence and greeted him on the occasion of his birthday. His service to our nation is monumental and greatly motivates us all,” Modi wrote in a post on X after meeting the veteran BJP leader.

The prime minister shared a photograph of his meeting with the BJP patriarch along with the post.

Earlier in the day, extending his greetings to the former deputy prime minister, Modi termed Advani as a leader blessed with a towering vision and intellect, stating that his life has been dedicated to strengthening India’s progress.

PM Modi prayed for his long life and health, mentioning his spirit of selfless duty and steadfast principles.

“Greetings to Shri LK Advani Ji on his birthday. A statesman blessed with towering vision and intellect, Advani Ji’s life has been dedicated to strengthening India’s progress. He has always embodied the spirit of selfless duty and steadfast principles. His contributions have left an indelible mark on India’s democratic and cultural landscape. May he be blessed with good health and a long life,” PM Modi wrote on ‘X’.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also extended wishes to Advani, calling him the “inspiration for millions of BJP workers.”

In his message on X, the Union Home Minister said, “As a founder member and former national president of the BJP, ‘Bharat Ratna’ LK Advani Ji has dedicated his entire life to the nation with utmost selflessness. From strengthening the party at the grassroots to enhancing the country’s internal security as Home Minister, his contribution remains unparalleled. His leadership during the Ram Janmabhoomi movement awakened national consciousness across India.”

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also extended birthday greetings to the veteran BJP leader on X, stating, “Heartfelt birthday greetings to L. K. Advani ji. His distinguished leadership, vision and lifelong dedication to the nation continue to inspire us all. Prayers for his good health and long life.”

Born on November 8, 1927, in Karachi (present-day Pakistan), Advani joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) as a Swayamsevak in 1942. He played a pivotal role in Indian politics, serving as BJP National President for three separate terms, from 1986 to 1990, 1993 to 1998, and 2004 to 2005, making him the longest-serving president in the party’s history since its inception in 1980.

LK Advani first served as the Home Minister from 1999 to 2004 and later served as Deputy Prime Minister in the NDA government led by Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee from 2002 to 2004.

In recognition of his exceptional contribution to the nation, Advani was conferred with the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, by President Droupadi Murmu in March this year.

Over a parliamentary career spanning nearly three decades, Advani has been widely acknowledged for his steadfast principles, visionary leadership, and lifelong dedication to strengthening India’s democratic and cultural framework.