New Delhi, Nov 8 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday sent heartfelt birthday wishes to veteran BJP leader Lal Krishna Advani, commending him as a statesman endowed with exceptional vision and intellect. Other leaders from the BJP also took the opportunity to celebrate the party stalwart on his birthday.

In an emotional message shared on X, PM Modi praised Advani’s unwavering commitment to the nation and his significant impact on India's political and cultural framework.

The Prime Minister expressed, “Warm wishes to Shri LK Advani Ji on his birthday. A statesman endowed with exceptional vision and intellect, Advani Ji’s life has been devoted to enhancing India’s development. He has consistently represented the essence of selfless service and unwavering values. His contributions have profoundly influenced India’s democratic and cultural fabric. May he enjoy robust health and a long life.”

This esteemed leader, who played a pivotal role in the evolution of the Bharatiya Janata Party over the years, celebrated his 98th birthday today. Greetings flowed in from all corners of the political arena as prominent leaders, Union ministers, and party members reminisced about his remarkable legacy and statesmanship.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari also conveyed his birthday greetings on X, stating, “Sincere birthday wishes to the senior leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party, our inspiration, Bharat Ratna, the esteemed Shri Lal Krishna Advani Ji. I pray for his excellent health, longevity, and a fulfilling life.”

Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan referred to Advani as “the embodiment of integrity and service in politics,” acknowledging his role in transforming the BJP into a national entity.

He remarked, “Wishing a very happy birthday and endless best wishes to the distinguished Shri Lal Krishna Advani Ji, the embodiment of integrity and service in politics, who nurtured the roots of the Bharatiya Janata Party, allowing it to flourish like a grand banyan tree, and who remains our guide and source of inspiration! May the blessings of Lord Shri Ram continually shine upon you; may you always enjoy good health, a long life, and may your blessings and affection persistently reach us — this is my prayer.”

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also joined in offering his wishes, recognizing Advani as a guiding light for the BJP family.

He shared, “Warm birthday wishes to the esteemed member of the BJP family and our guide, former Deputy Prime Minister, 'Bharat Ratna' revered Shri Lal Krishna Advani Ji, who has devoted his life to the nation in the spirit of 'Nation First'! Your life of service to the people and organizational prowess serves as an unmatched ideal for countless workers. We pray to Lord Shri Ram for your excellent health and longevity.”

Advani, awarded the Bharat Ratna in March 2024 by President Droupadi Murmu, served as the Deputy Prime Minister in the NDA government led by Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee from 2002 to 2004.

Born in Karachi (now in Pakistan) on November 8, 1927, he began his political journey with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in 1942 and has held the position of BJP National President multiple times.