VP Radhakrishnan Releases ‘Atal Bihari Vajpayee: The Eternal Statesman’ Book
Recalls Personal Memories, Calls Vajpayee a Beacon of Unity and Democracy
- Book authored by Vijay Goel released in New Delhi
- Vice-President reflects on serving in Lok Sabha during Vajpayee’s tenure
- Pokhran tests, infrastructure push cited as defining milestones
- Youth urged to uphold ideals of democracy and national unity
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 21st Feb: The Vice-President of India, C. P. Radhakrishnan, on Saturday released the coffee table book “Atal Bihari Vajpayee: The Eternal Statesman” authored by Vijay Goel at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi.
Describing the moment as both an honour and deeply emotional, the Vice-President said the publication stands as a fitting tribute to Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee, whom he called one of India’s tallest leaders. He observed that the book goes beyond photographs, capturing the spirit and legacy of a statesman whose influence continues to guide the nation.
Recalling his association with Vajpayee, Shri Radhakrishnan said he had the privilege of serving as a Member of the 12th and 13th Lok Sabha during Vajpayee’s tenure as Prime Minister. He also shared memories of organising a public meeting addressed by Vajpayee in Coimbatore in 1974, describing the experience as formative in his political journey.
He noted that Vajpayee’s rise from parliamentarian to Prime Minister symbolised the strength of Indian democracy. Even amid sharp political differences, he commanded respect across party lines for his integrity, inclusive outlook and dignified conduct.
Highlighting key milestones, the Vice-President referred to the Pokhran nuclear tests and landmark infrastructure initiatives such as the Delhi Metro, stating that Vajpayee demonstrated how strength and sensitivity can coexist in leadership. He added that dialogue, democracy and development remained the cornerstone of Vajpayee’s governance philosophy.
Calling him a poet, visionary and parliamentarian par excellence, Shri Radhakrishnan said Vajpayee possessed the rare ability to disagree without being disagreeable — a quality vital for public life.
Appreciating Vijay Goel’s effort in compiling rare photographs, archival material and personal anecdotes, the Vice-President expressed hope that the book would inspire young citizens to carry forward Vajpayee’s ideals of unity, democracy and social harmony.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including the Governors of Bihar, Haryana and Rajasthan, former Union Minister Dr. Murli Manohar Joshi, and other distinguished guests.
