Remembering Atal Bihari Vajpayee – The Great Statesman And Poet

Atal Bihari Vajpayee was a remarkable personality in independent India, whose life journey is inspiring across every dimension, from politics to literature and ideology to poetry. This divine figure in Indian politics not only brought honor to the nation through his incredible work, but also left an indelible mark on people’s hearts with his eloquent poetry and sweet style of speech. Even after reaching great heights, he remained calm, composed, and sensitive, true to his poet’s heart. Through his poetry, he also advised others that standing alone like a stump is not an option; as he expressed:

जो जितना ऊँचा
उतना ही एकाकी होता है,
हर भार स्वयं ही ढोता है।
चेहरे पर मुस्कानें चिपका
मन ही मन रोता है
जरूरी यह है कि
ऊँचाई के साथ विस्तार भी हो
जिससे मनुष्य
ठूँठ सा खड़ा न रहे,
औरों से घुले मिले
किसी को साथ ले
किसी के संग चले।

On May 31, 1996, just 13 days into his government, he failed to secure the confidence of the house and had to resign. His powerful speech during this time became widely discussed across the country. He stated that the nation is engulfed in crises, though we did not create it, still we have always stood with the government during necessary times. He acknowledged that while the game of power would continue—governments would rise and fall—this country must endure, and its democracy must remain immortal. Although his government fell, his courage remained intact, and he was the one who, after a 13-month hiatus, became Prime Minister again in 1999 as the leader of the National Democratic Alliance, becoming the first non-Congress Prime Minister to complete a full term.

Atal belonged to everyone, and everyone belonged to him. Even his opponents were seen as his own; Jawaharlal Nehru was eager to listen to his speeches, acknowledging his eloquence and wit. Being a poet did not hinder his political journey; instead, it helped him reach the pinnacle of success. He viewed literature as an effective means to curb totalitarianism. When editor Dr. Chandrika Prasad Sharma asked him how much a writer should engage in politics, Atal’s straightforward reply was: “Literature and politics do not exist in separate compartments… When a writer engages in politics, it will be more refined. A political leader with a literary background cannot deny human sentiments. If a poet were to become a dictator, he would not stain his hands with the blood of innocents. The cruelty in tyrants arises from their insensitivity. A writer’s heart is filled with compassion, forgiveness, and kindness; hence, he cannot play the game of bloody slaughter.”

Atal Bihari Vajpayee was often referred to as “Everyone’s Friend” due to his image of being unarmed by adversaries. He maintained respect for political opponents despite ideological differences. His speeches in Parliament exemplify this, often tinged with humor but devoid of bitterness. This rare quality in politics made him popular among all. During his tenure as Prime Minister, he firmly established India on the global stage, strengthening relations with Russia, the United States, and Asian countries, and working towards peaceful coexistence. This is why he was respected not only in India but also in the international community.

His speeches evoked laughter, instilled seriousness, and sometimes even indignation. His charisma was such that people listened to him attentively, even from afar. The last time he came to Lucknow to campaign for Dr. Dinesh Sharma was in 2006, where he held a gathering at Kapurthala Chauraha. I attended with my uncle, and the gathering was so packed that we had to listen to his entire speech from the scooter. People stopped wherever they were to hear him speak, showcasing his immense appeal. During this gathering, he humorously engaged with the audience, asking, “How would I look if I wear only a kurta and no pajamas?” People were bewildered, not knowing his intent. When someone said, “You would look bad,” Atal responded, “By electing me as the MP from Lucknow, you’ve given me a kurta; now you should also elect me in the city corporation mayoral election so that you can give me pajamas as well.” The entire gathering erupted in laughter.

There was also a moment when nuclear tests were conducted at Pokhran, and the United States imposed stringent sanctions on India. Atal remained unperturbed and conveyed a clear message to the world through Parliament that this is a changed India, which wants to engage with the world eye-to-eye and hand-in-hand. It would not bend in the face of sanctions and would utilize nuclear weapons for peace and security. The result is that today, the global power and reputation of India have significantly increased, a foundation laid by Atal. He directed the country towards new heights through initiatives such as social justice, the second communication revolution, the Golden Quadrilateral, the rural road scheme, and the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, along with the victory in the Kargil conflict.

He was not only a great politician and thinker but also an inspiration for millions. His life teaches us that politics is not merely about governance but also about service and ideals. He was a capable statesman, diplomat, thinker, and poet. His life is not just a golden chapter in Indian history, but his poems and contributions continue to keep his memory alive in the hearts of every Indian. Atal’s captivating voice, poetic warmth, and commitment to national interest make him a figure for the ages. He was indeed “Atal” – unique, priceless, and unwavering……………………

The writer of this article is Dr. Ankush Tripathi, an Independent Columnist