Lal Krishna Advani, the stalwart of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has been honored with the Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian award bestowed by the Indian government. This prestigious recognition marks his immense contributions to the nation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally conveyed the news to Advani on Saturday, expressing his delight and extending his heartfelt congratulations. In a series of tweets, PM Modi lauded Advani's remarkable role in shaping India's development, referring to him as one of the most respected statesmen of our times.

Advani's journey in public service began at the grassroots level, and his dedication to the nation saw him rise to the position of Deputy Prime Minister. His tenure as Home Minister and Minister of Information and Broadcasting further solidified his reputation as a distinguished leader. Throughout his career, Advani's parliamentary interventions have been exemplary, characterized by profound insights and a deep understanding of governance.

Beyond his political achievements, Prime Minister Modi highlighted Advani's unwavering commitment to transparency and integrity, setting an exemplary standard in political ethics. His tireless efforts in fostering national unity and cultural resurgence have been unparalleled.

The conferment of the Bharat Ratna on Advani holds immense emotional significance for PM Modi, who considers it a privilege to have learned from and interacted with Advani on numerous occasions.

Advani's life has been a testament to his unwavering commitment to India. Born in Karachi, he migrated to India after the Partition and settled in Bombay. His association with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) began in 1941, and in 1951, he joined the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, the predecessor to the BJP.

Advani's political career saw him serve four terms in the Rajya Sabha from 1970 to 1989. In 1977, following the Janata Party's victory in the general elections, he became the Minister for Information and Broadcasting and the Leader of the House in the Rajya Sabha.

Advani's leadership and vision for a resurgent India were pivotal in the BJP's rise to power in 1998, when he served as the Home Minister in the coalition government. His subsequent election as the Prime Minister in 1999 further solidified his position as a prominent figure in Indian politics.

Advani's contributions to India extend far beyond his political achievements. He has been a vocal advocate for cultural preservation and national integration, playing a pivotal role in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement. His efforts in promoting India's heritage and strengthening its cultural identity have earned him widespread recognition.

The Bharat Ratna is a fitting tribute to Lal Krishna Advani's extraordinary life and his unwavering dedication to the nation. His vision, leadership, and commitment to India's progress have left an indelible mark on the country's political landscape and its cultural fabric.