Manmohan Singh, who served as Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, was honored in a poignant state funeral, drawing dignitaries and citizens alike to pay homage to his legacy.
India Pays Final Respects to Former PM Manmohan Singh with State Funeral
India Pays Final Respects to Former PM Manmohan Singh with State Funeral
Nation mourns a visionary leader as tributes pour in for the architect of India's economic reform.
India has recently paid its final respects to former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who passed away on Thursday at the age of 92. His state funeral was held on Saturday in the heart of Delhi, where he was remembered not only as a political leader but as an architect of transformative economic reforms that propelled India onto the global stage.
The ceremony attracted significant attention, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi leading the tributes, describing Singh as one of the country's "most distinguished leaders." As Singh's coffin, adorned in garlands and draped in the national flag, made its way through the streets, thousands of mourners lined the route to participate in the solemn farewell.
The funeral service was attended by key political figures including President Droupadi Murmu and Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar, alongside senior members of Singh's Congress Party. Emotional tributes were also paid by Singh's eldest daughter, who lit the funeral pyre, surrounded by prominent leaders reflecting on his impact.
Foreign dignitaries, including Bhutan's King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and the Mauritius Foreign Minister Dhananjay Ramful, were present, further underscoring the international respect Singh commanded. The ceremony featured a 21-gun salute, following which the country declared seven days of national mourning.
Former Prime Minister Modi expressed his sorrow, reflecting on Singh's wisdom and humility, while opposition leader Rahul Gandhi shared how he felt he had lost a "mentor and a guide." U.S. President Joe Biden also provided a tribute, acknowledging Singh's instrumental role in fostering unprecedented cooperation between India and the United States, emphasizing his strategic vision and dedication to public service.
Singh's legacy is marked by his role in sparking India's economic reform in the early 90s, and he was renowned for lifting millions out of poverty during his tenure. Despite facing challenges, including corruption scandals that overshadowed his second term, Singh remains a respected figure, noted for his first term successes, his unique position as India's first Sikh Prime Minister, and his public apologies for historical injustices. His story serves as an enduring narrative of resilience and impact in Indian politics.
