Manmohan Singh, the visionary leader hailed as the architect of modern India's economy, was synonymous with his signature blue turban. The late Prime Minister, who passed away at the age of 92 on Thursday night, had once shared the heartfelt story behind his choice of this iconic color during a 2006 ceremony at the University of Cambridge, his alma mater.

Receiving an honorary Doctorate of Law at Cambridge, Singh revealed that the light blue turban was a tribute to his cherished days at the university. "Blue is one of my favorite colors and is often seen on my head," Singh remarked with a warm smile. He explained that the color reminded him of the formative years he spent at Cambridge, where he was affectionately nicknamed "blue turban" by his peers.

The moment gained special attention when Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, pointed out Singh?s distinctive blue turban, eliciting applause from the audience. ?Look at the color of his turban,? the Duke said, sparking a personal revelation from Singh about the deep connection between the hue and his university days.

Singh credited his time at Cambridge for shaping his intellectual and personal values. He fondly remembered the influence of renowned economists such as Nicholas Kaldor, Joan Robinson, and Amartya Sen, who instilled in him principles of open-mindedness, fearlessness, and curiosity.

His affinity for blue, which became his trademark, reflected not only a fondness for the color but also a tribute to the institution that had significantly shaped his journey.

The life of the former Prime Minister, marked by quiet dignity and groundbreaking contributions, came to an end at AIIMS, New Delhi, after he reportedly lost consciousness at home. India mourns the loss of one of its most revered statesmen, while the legacy of his iconic blue turban lives on as a symbol of his academic and personal journey.