Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s decision to honour the late President Pranab Mukherjee with a memorial in the national capital is a gesture that deserves wholehearted appreciation. Pranab Da’s immense contributions to the nation, both as a politician and a statesman, earned him respect across political lines. This recognition is not just a tribute to an individual but a testament to the Prime Minister’s commitment to celebrating the achievements of India’s leaders, regardless of their political affiliations. India is fortunate to have a leader like Narendra Modi, whose approach to governance and politics transcends narrow partisanship. Modi Ji’s actions reflect a rare statesmanship that places the nation above party politics. This is especially significant when one considers the unfortunate reality that Pranab Mukherjee, despite his towering credentials, was denied the Prime Minister’s office in favour of Dr. Manmohan Singh, owing to his perceived independence. Modi Ji’s magnanimity was evident in 2015 when his government promptly honoured late P.V. Narasimha Rao, by establishing a memorial in his name in the national capital. This act corrected a historical injustice, ensuring that Rao Garu’s transformative contributions—particularly his leadership during India’s economic liberalization—were given their rightful place in history.
Many express immense gratitude for the Prime Minister’s ability to rise above partisan divides and recognize the true architects of modern India. It is this spirit of magnanimity and inclusivity that sets Narendra Modi apart as one of the tallest leaders in Indian politics today. Despite his towering achievements, PV Narasimha Rao faced neglect from his own party, which chose to sideline his legacy. Rao’s refusal to act as a puppet for the Gandhi family and his independent leadership made him a target of disdain. Even in death, his body was denied entry into the Congress headquarters—a reprehensible act that will forever stain the party’s history and remain as untreated wound among Telugus per se in both the states of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. Modi Ji’s recognition of Rao Garu’s contributions, along with his decision to honour Pranab Mukherjee, reflects a political culture of inclusivity and respect for merit. These actions underline the fact that greatness in leadership lies in acknowledging the contributions of those who built the nation, irrespective of their political loyalties. It is also worth recalling the example set by Narasimha Rao Garu during his tenure as Prime Minister. His decision to entrust BJP leader Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ji with representing India at the United Nations showcased a rare political maturity that placed the nation above partisan divides. This kind of magnanimity is a hallmark of true statesmanship. As India moves forward, we must hope that this spirit of recognizing greatness beyond political boundaries continues. Narendra Modi’s actions in this regard serve as a reminder that the nation’s progress is built on the collective contributions of its leaders. It is this inclusive vision that ensures the legacy of great leaders like P.V. Narasimha Rao and Pranab Mukherjee remains enshrined in our history.