Besides being a revered politician, Atal Bihari Vajpayee was also an accomplished writer.
Atal Bihari Vajpayee served as the Prime Minister of India for three terms, first for 13 days in 1996, then for 13 months from 1998 to 1999, followed by a full term from 1999 to 2004. However, more than a statesman, he was (and still is) known for his unmatched creative mind. His writings - both fiction and non-fiction - reflect the kind of intellect and understanding about life that he had. So, whatever stage of life you're currently at, reading his books will open the door to a whole new world for you.
Today, on Vajpayee's 100th birth anniversary, let's have a look at some of his best books that everyone must read.
Atal Bihari Vajpayee was a poet of exceptional caliber, and 'Meri Ekyavan Kavitayen' proves just that. Published in 1995, the book is a collection of poems, specifically a reflection of his emotions and thoughts. The poems here touch upon various themes such as love, loss, and human values. Thanks to the poet's unparalleled command over language, these speak directly to our hearts, making us laugh, cry, and everything in between.
1988 :: Poem Written by Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ji Before His Kidney Operation In USA .
— indianhistorypics (@IndiaHistorypic) December 25, 2023
ठन गई! मौत से ठन गई!
प्यार इतना परायों से मुझको मिला
ना सगों से रहा कोई बाकी गिला pic.twitter.com/WnYGz4MURq
(Credit: indianhistorypics)
'Meri Sansadiya Yatra' is actually a compilation of Vajpayee's speeches that he delivered at the Indian Parliament throughout his career spanning 4 decades. Published in four volumes, the book provides us insights into Vajpayee's ideas and strategies as a statesman. On the other hand, it also explores the evolution of Indian politics, discussing various aspects of the state during the post-independence era.
One of the best qualities of Vajpayee was that he never shied away from going above his party's lines for the greater good. And this book can be a guide for anyone who wants to step into politics.
Anyone interested in geopolitics or India's approach to foreign affairs must read 'India's Perspectives on ASEAN and the Asia-Pacific Region' at least once. Published in 2003, the book reflects Vajpayee's strategies in foreign affairs during his tenure as India's Prime Minister. It explores everything from democracy to diplomacy to India's relationship with the ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Nations) and the Asia Pacific region. Moreover, it explains ASEAN's significant role in bridging global powers.
The list obviously doesn't end here. Besides these books, it also includes 'National Integration', 'New Dimensions of India's Foreign Policy', 'Kya Khoya Kya Paya: Atal Bihari Vajapeyi, Vyaktitva Aur Kavitaen', 'Chuni Hui Kavitaen', 'Na Dainyam Na Palayanam', and 'Vichar-Bindu'.
In 2013, an English translation of a selection of Vajpayee's Hindi poetry was published.
Vajpayee was conferred with the Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian award by the Government of India, in 1992. And he was honored with India's highest civilian honor, Bharat Ratna, by the then President of India, Pranab Mukherjee, in 2015.
"बाधाएँ आती हैं आएँ
— Vice-President of India (@VPIndia) August 16, 2024
घिरें प्रलय की घोर घटाएँ,
पावों के नीचे अंगारे,
सिर पर बरसें यदि ज्वालाएँ,
निज हाथों में हँसते-हँसते,
आग लगाकर जलना होगा।
क़दम मिलाकर चलना होगा।"
Remembering former Prime Minister Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ji on his Punya Tithi. A visionary statesman,… pic.twitter.com/J8jeZ07PON
(Credit: Vice-President of India)
In 2014, Narendra Modi declared that Vajpayee's birthday, December 25, would be celebrated as Good Governance Day.
Rest in Peace, Vajpayee Ji.
