Tribute to Pranab Da

Many see the Queen of England as a witness to world history in the past few decades. We have our own Indian version in Pranab Mukherjee. With over a 5-decade stint in politics, he has donned every role possible in the public office, except for the Prime Minister post (Although he came close to clinch in more than a single occasion)

From Indira Gandhi’s Cabinet to Raisina Hill, the man has seen it all. A troubleshooter through and through, I wouldn’t mind to call out that he was one of the core strengths for UPA’s relatively smooth functioning. His command on parliamentary procedures, uncanny political analysis, and the ability to make friends across party lines is absolutely commendable. He is fondly called as ‘Pranab Da’. Even though he started his career in the upper house, he did prove his mettle by winning the Lok Sabha elections, demonstrating his credentials as a mass leader.

In the Rashtrapati Bhavan he once pointed his finger to a blue book and said that no matter what he or others might think of their exalted position, it was this book that governed India. It was the Constitution and the President claimed that it was his habit to carry it everywhere. No wonder he had such an encyclopaedic knowledge of the world’s longest Constitution.

His autobiography is a reveal to the world he was a witness for. Such a man would turn up once in a lifetime. I wish I got an opportunity to interact with him. He has served his country to the best of his capabilities. May he rest in peace!