Nation : Remembers Lala Lajpat Rai as Leaders Mark His Birth Anniversary
Nation: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday led tributes across the country to veteran freedom fighter Lala Lajpat Rai on his birth anniversary, remembering him as a national icon whose courage and sacrifice continue to shape India’s collective memory. Leaders from across the political spectrum reflected on his enduring influence on the freedom movement and his role in strengthening the foundations of modern India.
Prime Minister Highlights Lifelong Commitment to Freedom
In a message shared on social media platform X, Prime Minister Modi described Lala Lajpat Rai as an everlasting symbol of patriotism. He noted that Rai devoted his entire life to freeing the country from colonial rule and gave everything he had in service of the nation. According to the Prime Minister, his dedication and selflessness remain a guiding force for generations of Indians.
A Visionary Beyond the Freedom Struggle
In a separate video address, the Prime Minister said Lala Lajpat Rai’s contribution went far beyond protests and political resistance. He portrayed Rai as a thinker with far-reaching vision, whose ideas extended into social reform and national development. Modi emphasised that Rai believed true independence required not only political freedom but also a strong social and economic foundation.
Role in Building National Institutions
The Prime Minister also drew attention to Lala Lajpat Rai’s involvement in creating key institutions that supported India’s economic self-reliance. Among these was his contribution to the establishment of Punjab National Bank and other organisations aimed at empowering Indians financially. Modi said this focus on economic strength was central to Rai’s philosophy and reflected his belief in a self-sustaining nation.
Amit Shah Recalls Sacrifice and Revolutionary Influence
Union Home Minister Amit Shah paid homage by highlighting Rai’s ultimate sacrifice for independence. In his post on X, Shah said Rai helped unify diverse strands of the freedom struggle into a single, powerful movement. He also credited Rai with inspiring future revolutionaries, including Bhagat Singh, and acknowledged his role in energising resistance against British rule.
Tributes from Union Ministers
Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari also shared his respects, offering salutations to the freedom fighter on his birth anniversary. His message focused on acknowledging Rai’s contribution to the nation and honouring his legacy as one of the leading figures of the independence movement.
Union Minister and BJP President J.P. Nadda echoed similar sentiments, stating that Lala Lajpat Rai’s nationalist ideas stirred a deep sense of purpose among India’s youth. He noted that Rai’s leadership gave fresh direction to the freedom struggle and that his sacrifices continue to motivate citizens across the country.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Emphasises Ideals
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also marked the occasion, describing Lala Lajpat Rai as a committed social reformer and a strong advocate of Swadeshi principles. He said Rai’s fearlessness, discipline, and devotion to the nation remain a priceless legacy of India’s independence movement, encouraging people to uphold the spirit of national interest.
Enduring Legacy of the ‘Lion of Punjab’
Widely known as Punjab Kesari, or the Lion of Punjab, Lala Lajpat Rai remains one of the most influential leaders of the freedom struggle. His resistance to colonial authority, combined with his vision for a strong and self-reliant India, has secured him a lasting place in the nation’s history. As leaders and citizens remember him, his life continues to stand as a reminder of sacrifice, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the country.