Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday, 3 October extended birthday greetings to Union Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, commending his work in promoting Indian culture and boosting the country's tourism sector. Modi's warm words were echoed by a string of senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders across the political spectrum.

Modi's Birthday Message

Taking to social media platform X, Prime Minister Modi wrote: 'Best wishes to Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat Ji on his birthday. His work towards making Indian culture popular and ensuring the tourism sector grows is commendable. May he be blessed with a long and healthy life.'

The message underscores the Centre's emphasis on cultural diplomacy and tourism as twin pillars of soft power, an agenda Shekhawat has championed since assuming the portfolio in 2024.

Who Is Gajendra Singh Shekhawat

Gajendra Singh Shekhawat was born on 3 October 1967 in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. He currently serves as Union Minister of Culture and Tourism and represents the Jodhpur constituency as a Member of Parliament in the Lok Sabha. His tenure at the ministry has focused on expanding India's tourism infrastructure and international cultural outreach.

Senior Leaders Join the Wishes

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla extended his congratulations, saying: 'May God bless you with good health, happiness, and a long life.' Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also posted on X: 'Greetings and warm wishes to Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on his birthday. His dedicated efforts towards promoting India's rich cultural heritage and strengthening the country's tourism sector are commendable. May he be blessed with a long and healthy life in service of society.'

Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma offered his wishes as well, posting: 'Heartiest birthday wishes to Union Minister of Culture and Tourism and Member of Parliament from Jodhpur Lok Sabha constituency, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat! I pray to Lord Shrinathji for your good health and long life!'

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath added: 'May you have a healthy, long, and successful life and may you continue to work for public service and national upliftment. This is my prayer to Lord Shri Ram.'

Cultural and Tourism Agenda

Shekhawat's stewardship of the Culture and Tourism ministry has aligned closely with the government's broader push to position India as a global cultural and heritage destination. The ministry has, under his watch, reportedly accelerated initiatives around heritage site conservation, religious tourism circuits, and international cultural exchanges. The outpouring of greetings from the Prime Minister downwards reflects Shekhawat's standing within the ruling establishment as he enters a new year in office.