PM Modi pays tribute to Atal Bihari Vajpayee on death anniversary

Story by PTI | Posted by Aasha Khosa | Date 16-08-2026

Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee

New Delhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid tribute to former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his death anniversary and said he was as extraordinary statesman blessed with remarkable vision and dedicated his life to the service of the nation.

Vajpayee, the first BJP leader to become prime minister, was born December 25, 1924, in Gwalior and died August 16, 2018, in New Delhi.

"Remembering Atal Ji on his 'Punya Tithi'. An extraordinary statesman blessed with remarkable vision, he dedicated his life to the service of our nation," Modi said in a post on X.

Remembering Atal Ji on his Punya Tithi. An extraordinary statesman blessed with remarkable vision, he dedicated his life to the service of our nation. His words and efforts inspired generations and his leadership strengthened our nation. His focus on good governance and public…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 16, 2026

The prime minister said Vajpayee's words and efforts inspired generations, and his leadership strengthened the country. "His focus on good governance and public welfare will always continue to guide us."

President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President CP Radhakrishnan, BJP National President Nitin Nabin and other senior leaders also attended the prayer meeting at 'Sadaiv Atal', the memorial of former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee, on his death anniversary

Vajpayee, one of India's most prominent political leaders, served as Prime Minister for three terms. He was first sworn in as Prime Minister for a brief period in 1996 and later served from 1998 to 1999 and from 1999 to 2004.

Known for his oratory skills, parliamentary contribution and statesmanship, Vajpayee was a founding leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party and played a key role in shaping the party's political journey.

During his tenure as Prime Minister, India witnessed several significant developments in areas including infrastructure, diplomacy, economic policy and national security.

Vajpayee was also a noted Hindi poet and remained widely respected across political lines for his parliamentary career and public life.

He was conferred the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award, in 2015 in recognition of his contribution to the nation.

ALSO READ: 10 Muslim women in boardrooms of Indian businesses

Vajpayee passed away on August 16, 2018, at the age of 93. His death anniversary is observed every year as an occasion to remember his life, political contribution and legacy.