As 96-year-old Lal Krishna Advani, one of India’s most influential political figures, rests under observation at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi, the nation reflects on the indelible mark he has left on its political landscape.
A Lifetime of Service
Born on November 8, 1927, in Karachi (now in Pakistan), Advani’s journey in public service began at the tender age of 14 when he joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in 1942. This early commitment to nationalism would shape his entire career and the future of Indian politics.
Founding Father of the BJP
Advani’s most significant contribution came with the formation of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 1980. As one of its founding members, he played a crucial role in shaping the party’s ideology and strategy. His leadership as BJP National President for multiple terms (1986-1990, 1993-1998, and 2004-2005) was instrumental in transforming the party from a marginal player to a major national force.
Architect of the Ram Janmabhoomi Movement
Perhaps Advani’s most controversial yet impactful role was as the leader of the Ram Janmabhoomi movement in the late 1980s and early 1990s. His famous “Ram Rath Yatra” in 1990 galvanized support for the construction of a Ram temple in Ayodhya, significantly altering India’s political and social landscape.
Governmental Roles and Leadership
Advani’s political acumen led him to key governmental positions. He served as the Minister of Home Affairs from 1998 to 2004 and later as the Deputy Prime Minister under Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s government. His tenure was marked by significant reforms in internal security and efforts to improve Centre-State relations.
Leader of the Opposition and Prime Ministerial Candidate
Following the BJP’s defeat in 2004, Advani took on the role of Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha. He was also the party’s prime ministerial candidate for the 2009 general elections, showcasing his enduring influence within the party.
Literary Contributions
Beyond politics, Advani has been a prolific writer. His autobiographical work, “My Country My Life” (2008), provides valuable insights into his political journey and the evolution of Indian democracy.
Awards and Recognition
Advani’s contributions to Indian public life were recently honored with the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, conferred upon him by President Draupadi Murmu on March 30, 2024. This recognition caps a lifetime of service to the nation.
Legacy and Influence
As Advani receives medical care, his legacy as a key architect of modern Indian politics remains undisputed. His role in shaping the BJP’s ideology, his advocacy for Hindutva, and his contributions to Indian governance have left an indelible mark on the country’s political discourse.
While his health now demands the nation’s attention, L.K. Advani’s life story serves as a testament to the power of conviction, perseverance, and adaptability in public life. As India watches over one of its most significant political figures, it also reflects on the complex tapestry of its democratic journey, of which Advani has been an integral part.