By Upendra Arora
In 2002, we had the privilege of publishing the authorised biography of Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw by Lt Gen Depinder Singh, who served as his Military Assistant during the historic 1971 war that led to the liberation of Bangladesh. The book, titled ‘Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw: Soldiering with Dignity’, remains a proud milestone for us.
Knowing the close bond Field Marshal Manekshaw shared with Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, we invited the Prime Minister to release the book. Our request was graciously accepted and the ceremony was hosted at the Prime Minister’s residence in New Delhi. The author, accompanied by his wife, along with several officers who had participated in the war, attended the memorable event. The occasion came alive with Prime Minister Vajpayee sharing warm anecdotes about the Field Marshal—his charm, wit, and dignified soldiering style. He highlighted the immense significance of India’s victory in 1971 and the long-term geopolitical advantage it brought to the nation. He also shared interesting insights from his engagement with President Pervez Musharraf during the Agra Summit after the Kargil War and recited a few heartfelt lines in praise of India’s brave soldiers.
Bharat Ratna awardee Atal Bihari Vajpayee was a towering statesman, poet, visionary leader, and one of modern India’s most respected Prime Ministers. Serving three terms and becoming the first non-Congress Prime Minister to complete a full term (1999–2004), he strengthened India’s democratic spirit, advanced economic reforms, championed infrastructure projects such as the Golden Quadrilateral, enhanced India’s global standing through diplomacy, and guided the nation through major security milestones including the Pokhran-II nuclear tests. His tenure reflected inclusive growth, consensus-building, and a deep commitment to national pride and unity.
His birthday, 25 December, is celebrated as Good Governance Day, symbolising his dedication to ethical and people-centric governance.
A man of literary depth, Vajpayee was always at ease in the company of books and authors. A gifted poet and accomplished writer, he infused his speeches and poetry with wisdom, emotion, and India’s civilisational ethos. Scholars often note that he blended cultural nationalism with political moderation, shaping a thoughtful and compassionate vision of Indian conservatism rooted in identity, dignity, and dialogue.
On his Birth Anniversary, Natraj Publishers fondly remembers our patron and beloved book loving Prime Minister, Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
