'Source of Strength': Piyush Goyal Hails LK Advani's Legacy on 99th Birthday
Union Minister Piyush Goyal hails LK Advani as a source of strength for the BJP and the nation during celebrations for his 99th birthday.
Union Minister Piyush Goyal has described the illustrious career of veteran BJP leader and former Deputy Prime Minister LK Advani as a beacon of inspiration and a fundamental source of strength for both the Bharatiya Janata Party and the nation. Speaking on Sunday, Goyal paid a glowing tribute to Advani as the leader celebrates his 99th birthday, marking his entry into his 100th year.
Celebrations at BJP Headquarters
The tributes took place following a special havan organized at the BJP headquarters to commemorate the occasion. The event, which ran from 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM, was followed by a 20-minute video presentation that chronicled Advani's life journey and highlighted some of his most significant speeches over the decades.
A Standard of Exemplary Conduct
Reflecting on Advani's diverse roles in Indian politics, Piyush Goyal emphasized that the former leader's conduct remained impeccable regardless of his position. Whether serving in the opposition or holding high-ranking government offices—including his tenure as the Minister of Information and Broadcasting in 1977, Home Minister, and Deputy Prime Minister—Advani's approach to leadership served as a masterclass for others.
Goyal specifically pointed out the way Advani treated party workers, stating that his behavior set an exemplary standard that continues to provide profound lessons for current party members.
Nation First, Self Last
The Union Minister highlighted Advani's selfless nature, noting that he never sought personal gain or competed with others for prominence. Instead, his focus remained steadfastly on the progress of the country and the growth of the party.
"The natural and effortless way he interacted with everyone, sitting and mingling with people with a spirit of friendship, never once competing or thinking about how he could get ahead. In every matter, his concern was always how the country could move forward, how the party could move forward," Goyal remarked.
Goyal further asserted that the core philosophy of a BJP worker—putting the nation first, the party second, and oneself last—is deeply inspired by the firm resolve and the path shown by LK Advani.
Building a Global Political Giant
Speaking with reporters after the event, Goyal credited Advani with the monumental task of transforming the Bharatiya Jan Sangh into the Bharatiya Janata Party, which has now grown into one of the largest political organizations in the world. He noted that Advani's love for every single party worker was a driving force behind this expansion.
Concluding his tribute, the Union Minister prayed for the former Deputy Prime Minister's continued good health and long life, expressing the party's hope that Advani will continue to guide and inspire them in the years to come.