India bid farewell to one of its most esteemed leaders, the former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who passed away on Thursday at the age of 92. A state funeral was held on Saturday, drawing notable dignitaries and numerous mourners as the country reflected on Singh's contributions to the nation.
Singh, who served as Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, is celebrated as the architect of India's economic liberalization, transforming the country’s economy and improving the lives of millions. Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the funeral, expressing his respect for Singh by stating, "During our interactions, his wisdom and humility were always visible." Singh’s passing prompted seven days of national mourning, underscoring the enormity of his legacy.
The state funeral was marked by various ceremonial honors, including a 21-gun salute as Singh's coffin was carried through the streets of Delhi, flanked by honor guards. International dignitaries were also present, including Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Mauritius Foreign Minister Dhananjay Ramful. Rahul Gandhi, the leader of the Congress Party and Singh's former protégé, attended the service, lamenting, "I have lost a mentor and a guide."
Foreign tributes poured in as well, most significantly from the United States. President Joe Biden remarked, "He was a true statesman. A dedicated public servant. And above all, he was a kind and humble person." Such sentiments reflected Singh's far-reaching influence on both domestic and international fronts.
Manmohan Singh's political career began with his role as Finance Minister during the 1991 economic crisis. He helped unshackle Indian trade and industry, heralding the economic reforms which would set the course for India's rapid growth. Singh was known for his first budget speech, where he proclaimed, "No power on Earth can stop an idea whose time has come." His vision paved the way for India to rise as one of the world's fastest-growing economies, lifting millions out of poverty along the way.
Notably, Singh made history as the first Sikh to hold the office of Prime Minister. He also became the first Indian leader after Jawaharlal Nehru, who led from 1947 to 1964, to be re-elected after serving a full term. An economic reformist at heart, Singh prioritized growth and development, yet he faced challenges during his second term, including allegations of corruption which plagued his administration and eventually contributed to his party's defeat in the 2014 general elections.
Singh’s tenure was also marked by his heartfelt public apologies, such as for the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, where thousands lost their lives. His open acknowledgment of historical wrongs signified his commitment to reconciliation and progress, adding depth to his character as formidable politician.
The state funeral showcased the respects paid to Singh, reflecting how he was viewed not only as a leader but as a person of integrity and vision. Mourners gathered across the capital, paying their respects, as his coffin made its final procession to the cremation ground. This moment served as not only a tribute to his political achievements but to the person who dedicated his life to public service.
Singh's legacy extends beyond his economic policies; he is remembered fondly for his personal traits of humility and kindness. Former colleagues and world leaders alike praised his dedicated service to India, reinforcing the notion of Singh as one of the nation’s distinguished leaders. His influential role will undoubtedly be studied and revered for generations to come as one of the pillars of modern Indian governance.