Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh came together in Lucknow on Wednesday to pay rich tributes to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on the eve of his 101st birth anniversary. The leaders highlighted Vajpayee's enduring legacy of inclusive politics and principled governance.
Good Governance Day Celebrations in Lucknow
The event, an 'Atal Geet Ganga' programme held on December 24, 2025, saw the release of a commemorative booklet titled 'Atal Mahanayak'. Chief Minister Adityanath, addressing the gathering alongside Lucknow MP Rajnath Singh, stated that Vajpayee's birth anniversary, celebrated as Good Governance Day, serves as a permanent reminder of his administrative reforms and his commitment to corruption-free governance.
A Legacy of Dialogue and Democratic Values
Emphasising Vajpayee's unique political style, the Chief Minister noted that the late BJP stalwart always maintained a dialogue with the Opposition. "By successfully running a coalition government, he proved that in a strong democracy, dissent too deserves respect," Adityanath said. He added that Vajpayee was instrumental in preserving the independence of key democratic institutions like the judiciary, the Election Commission, and the media.
Adityanath described Vajpayee as an unparalleled figure who elevated Indian politics for six decades, seamlessly blending it with core values and ideals. "Irrespective of political affiliation, leaders can leave their mark while upholding their integrity," he remarked, pointing to Vajpayee's life as a prime example.
The Poet-Statesman Who Inspired a Nation
The CM also reflected on the multifaceted personality of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, celebrating him as a poet, writer, journalist, and visionary statesman. "Atal Ji's inspiration, determination and vision were reflected not only in his political work but also in his poetry," he said. Reciting Vajpayee's famous poem 'Haar Nahi Manunga' (I Will Not Accept Defeat), Adityanath stated that its message continues to inspire citizens facing challenges across the country.
"While he had a poet's heart, he worked with unwavering determination for the nation," Adityanath observed. He credited Vajpayee's visionary leadership for bringing about transformative changes in rural development, urban connectivity, and public welfare systems, a legacy that continues to shape policy discussions today. The event underscored the lasting impact of a leader respected across India and admired worldwide.
