Our Bureau
Lucknow
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday inaugurated the Rashtra Prerna Sthal in Lucknow, which will serve a tribute to the life, ideals, and enduring legacy of one of India’s most revered statesmen, whose leadership left a profound impact on the nation’s democratic, political, and developmental journey.
Rashtra Prerna Sthal is driven by the vision of PM Modi. It has been developed as a landmark national memorial and inspirational complex of enduring national significance. Constructed at an approximate cost of Rs 230 crore and spread across an expansive area of 65 acres, the complex is envisioned as a permanent national asset dedicated to fostering leadership values, national service, cultural consciousness, and public inspiration.
The complex features 65-feet-high bronze statues of Syama Prasad Mookerjee, Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya, and former Prime Minister Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee, symbolising their seminal contributions to India’s political thought, nation-building, and public life.
It also houses a state-of-the-art museum designed in the form of a lotus-shaped structure, spread over approximately 98,000 square feet. The museum showcases India’s national journey and the contributions of these visionary leaders through advanced digital and immersive technologies, offering visitors an engaging and educational experience.
During the address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended Christmas greetings to the people of India and the world, while also paying tribute to Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Bharat Ratna Madan Mohan Malaviya, and Maharaja Bijli Pasi on their birth anniversaries.
Addressing a gathering in Lucknow, the Prime Minister said the city was witnessing a new source of inspiration on December 25, a day that holds religious and historical significance.
“Today, the land of Lucknow is witnessing a new inspiration. I extend Christmas greetings to the country and the world. Millions of Christian families in India are celebrating the festival today. We all wish that the spirit of Christmas brings happiness into everyone’s life,” PM Modi said.
He stated that December 25 commemorates the birth anniversaries of leaders who played significant roles in India’s nation-building process, recalling how their contributions shaped the nation’s identity and unity.
“December 25th also brings with it the auspicious occasion of the birth anniversaries of two great personalities of the country: Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Bharat Ratna Madan Mohan Malaviya. These two great men protected India’s identity, unity, and pride and left an indelible mark on nation-building,” the Prime Minister said.
Modi also recalled the contribution of Maharaja Bijli Pasi and said the day also marks his birth anniversary.
“December 25th is also the birth anniversary of Maharaja Bijli Pasi… It is also a coincidence that Atal Ji himself issued a postage stamp in honour of Maharaja Bijli Pasi in the year 2000,” he said.
Paying tributes, the Prime Minister added, “On this auspicious day, I respectfully pay my tributes to Malaviya Ji, Atal Ji, and Maharaja Bijli Pasi.”
Earlier, an official release said the inauguration of Rashtra Prerna Sthal marks an important step in preserving and promoting the ideals of selfless leadership and good governance, and is expected to serve as a source of inspiration for present and future generations.
Speaking on the occasion, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said the legacy of the three great men, who gave a new vision to India, is being realized by Prime Minister Modi.
He said Syama Prasad Mookerjee gave the call for ‘ek nishan, ek vidhan, ek pradhan’ in independent India.
He said Pt Deen Dayal Upadhyay wanted to ensure the life of even the last person in line to be transformed.
“We have been seeing that happen in the last 11 years… The legacy of these three great men is being realised by the sculptor of Modern India, the man who saw the dream of ‘Ek Bharat Shresth Bharat’, Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” he said.
