But whole of Pakistan is wanted in dowry… When Defense Minister Rajnath Singh narrated the story of former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s witty reply

Lucknow: Former Prime Minister Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee was not only a skilled and visionary politician, but he was also known for his sharp intelligence, easy humor and outspoken style. On the occasion of his 101st birth anniversary, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh shared some memorable incidents related to him, which highlight Vajpayee’s unique sense of humor and political tact.

smile with seriousness in politics

Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s personality was such that he used to say big things in a light manner even in the most difficult political situations. Rajnath Singh said that this quality of Vajpayee made him different from other leaders. With his words, he not only lightened the atmosphere but also forced the person in front of him to think.

Unique offer during your visit to Lahore

The historic Lahore bus journey of February 1999 was an important chapter of Vajpayee’s tenure. The purpose of this visit was to reduce the increased tension between India and Pakistan after the nuclear tests. The Lahore Declaration was signed during this visit.

Rajnath Singh shared an interesting anecdote related to this visit. He told that impressed by Vajpayee’s speech, an unmarried Pakistani woman proposed marriage to him. The woman said in a joking tone that she wanted Kashmir in exchange for marriage.

The wit with which Vajpayee responded to this still forces people to smile. He said that he is ready for marriage, but wants the whole of Pakistan in dowry. Along with humor, this answer also reflects India’s clear and firm stand regarding Kashmir.

Didn’t stop joking even during emergency

Rajnath Singh mentioned another incident during the Emergency. He told that while in custody, Vajpayee had complained of severe back pain, after which he was taken to AIIMS. When the doctors asked whether the pain was due to bending, Vajpayee said smilingly, “Doctor Saheb, I do not know how to bend in my life, perhaps I might have bent somewhere by mistake.” This answer not only reflects his self-esteem, but also brings out the firmness and humor of his nature.

sarcastic answers to political questions

Rajnath Singh shared another incident from the year 2006, when during the UPA government, there was a controversy regarding the Iraq oil-for-food scam and the then Foreign Minister Natwar Singh had to resign. Journalists asked Vajpayee whether Natwar Singh was made a scapegoat to save the Congress. On this Vajpayee said smilingly, “I am a vegetarian.” In this short answer, he told the whole thing without directly accusing anyone.

A legacy that will live forever

Atal Bihari Vajpayee, awarded Bharat Ratna, died on 16 August 2018 at the age of 93. His poems, thoughts, politics and humorous sayings are still alive in the hearts of people. These memories shared by Rajnath Singh prove that Vajpayee was not only a great leader but also a person who knew how to maintain humanity and smile even in serious politics.