Atal ji will live in hearts, minds of every Indian: Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday paid an emotional tribute to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, describing him as an “extraordinary personality” whose contribution to India would remain deeply etched in the nation’s history.

In a message posted on Twitter, Modi said Vajpayee would continue to live in the hearts and minds of Indians and that words could never fully capture his contribution to the country.

“Atal ji, you will live on in the hearts and minds of every Indian. No words can ever do justice to your rich contribution towards the making of our country,” Modi wrote.

Modi also highlighted the overwhelming public response to Vajpayee’s passing, noting that people from different parts of the country and across social groups had travelled to Delhi to pay their respects to the former Prime Minister.

He described the huge gathering as a reflection of the deep affection and respect Vajpayee had earned during his long public life.

Vajpayee, one of India’s most prominent political figures, was cremated with full state honours at Rashtriya Smriti Sthal at around 4 p.m. on Friday.

President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Modi, BJP President Amit Shah and Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman were among the dignitaries present at the final rites. Several Indian leaders and foreign representatives also attended the ceremony to pay their respects.

Vajpayee’s political career spanned several decades, during which he emerged as one of the country’s most respected parliamentary leaders. Known for his oratory, consensus-building approach and ability to connect with people across political lines, he served as Prime Minister three times and played a central role in shaping modern Indian politics.

His passing prompted tributes from across the political spectrum, reflecting the stature he had built beyond party lines.

The massive turnout for his final journey underscored the enduring public impact of a leader whose political legacy remains closely associated with both India’s democratic traditions and its evolving national identity.