Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday extended Christmas greetings to the people of India and the world, while paying tribute to Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Bharat Ratna Madan Mohan Malaviya on their birth anniversaries.

Speaking in Lucknow, the Prime Minister said December 25 holds special importance in India's history and recalled the contribution of leaders who played a key role in shaping the nation's identity and unity.

"The spirit of Christmas brings happiness to millions of Christian families in India today. It is a day of celebration, and we wish that its spirit spreads joy and peace across the country," PM Modi said.

"Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Madan Mohan Malaviya were pillars who contributed immensely to the nation's development. Their efforts in nation-building will forever be remembered," he noted, adding that December 25 also marks the birth anniversary of Maharaja Bijli Pasi.

The Prime Minister further recalled that Vajpayee himself issued a postage stamp in honour of Maharaja Bijli Pasi in the year 2000, underscoring the historical relevance of this date.

In his speech, Modi also highlighted the inauguration of the Rashtra Prerna Sthal, a symbol of the ideals of self-respect, unity, and service.

The site, which was once a garbage dump covering over 30 acres, has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past three years.

"This project was made possible by the tireless work of planners, artisans, and workers, as well as the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and his team," he said, extending heartfelt congratulations to all those involved in the endeavour.

Earlier today, PM Modi inaugurated the Rashtra Prerna Sthal in Lucknow, which will serve as a tribute to the life, ideals, and enduring legacy of one of India's most revered statesmen, whose leadership left a profound impact on the nation's democratic, political, and developmental journey.

Rashtra Prerna Sthal is driven by the vision of PM Modi. It has been developed as a landmark national memorial and inspirational complex of enduring national significance. Constructed at an approximate cost of Rs 230 crore and spread across an expansive area of 65 acres, the complex is envisioned as a permanent national asset dedicated to fostering leadership values, national service, cultural consciousness, and public inspiration.

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The complex features 65-feet-high bronze statues of Syama Prasad Mookerjee, Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya, and former Prime Minister Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee, symbolising their seminal contributions to India's political thought, nation-building, and public life.

It also houses a state-of-the-art museum designed in the form of a lotus-shaped structure, spread over approximately 98,000 square feet. The museum showcases India's national journey and the contributions of these visionary leaders through advanced digital and immersive technologies, offering visitors an engaging and educational experience.