In a ceremony steeped in historical significance, the Delhi Legislative Assembly witnessed the unveiling of portraits of two iconic Bharat Ratna awardees on Wednesday. Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh formally revealed the portraits of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and educationist-freedom fighter Mahamana Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya within the hallowed halls of the House.
A Gathering of Dignitaries for a Historic Moment
The event was graced by the presence of Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta, and the Chairman of the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts, Padma Bhushan Shri Ram Bahadur Rai. Also in attendance were Deputy Speaker Mohan Singh Bisht, Delhi cabinet minister Pravesh Sahib Singh, and several other public representatives, marking the occasion as one of collective reverence.
Commemorating National Heritage with 'Bharat Mata'
Coinciding with the portrait unveiling, a commemorative coffee table book titled 'Bharat Mata' was released. This publication holds special importance as it marks the completion of 150 years since the composition of the national song 'Vande Mataram'. The book is dedicated to the creative and artistic expressions of Indian national consciousness.
CM Rekha Gupta Hails the Legacy of the Luminaries
Addressing the assembly, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta described the dual unveiling as a historic and inspiring moment for the Delhi Legislative Assembly. She emphasized that both personalities epitomize the ideals of 'nation first', integrity, farsightedness, and public welfare.
Reflecting on Malaviya's contributions, Gupta highlighted his pivotal role in the freedom movement, national consciousness, and especially education. She noted that institutions like the Banaras Hindu University stand as a lasting testament to his visionary and value-based approach to learning.
Paying tribute to Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the Chief Minister referred to him as a statesman of an era. She stated that the foundation of development and national unity laid by Vajpayee now forms the bedrock of India's rapid progress.
A Source of Inspiration and a Vision for the Future
CM Gupta expressed confidence that the 'Bharat Mata' book would serve as a valuable source of inspiration for students, researchers, and policy-makers. Concluding her address, she extended gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. She affirmed that, in alignment with the PM's vision, the Delhi government is working with unwavering commitment towards the national goal of achieving a 'Viksit Bharat 2047' (Developed India 2047).
The ceremony successfully intertwined the remembrance of India's glorious past with aspirations for its future, reinforcing constitutional values and national pride within the legislative forum.
