Nagpur, April 6: At the BJP’s foundation day celebration in Nagpur, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari reflected on the party’s journey over the past 40 years. He emphasized that the Bharatiya Janata Party was not established merely to elevate one individual to the position of Prime Minister.
Gadkari recalled that the party was founded 40 years ago in the presence of leaders like Ram Jethmalani and Shanti Bhushan. During that time, various leaders gathered in 20 locations to discuss the party’s ideologies, constitution, and objectives in detail.
He also reminisced about a meeting at Bandra Reclamation in Mumbai, where MC Chagla was the chief guest. Chagla had stated that he was present with the party that would lead the nation and take on its responsibilities.
Gadkari mentioned that Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who later became Prime Minister, was also present at that meeting. Vajpayee had famously said, “The darkness will lift, the sun will rise, and the lotus will bloom.” Gadkari asserted that this prediction has now come true. He reiterated that the party’s goal is to shape the future of the nation, not just to make someone Prime Minister.
He further noted that when people suggested that the next Prime Minister should be like Atal, Vajpayee would respond that it is not about who the Prime Minister is, but rather about what the country will become. Over the past 40 years, the BJP has worked towards this vision and has realized many dreams.
Addressing criticisms from opposition parties, Gadkari stated that they have attempted to spread as much poison as possible. He stressed that the BJP is neither casteist nor communal and is not against any religion. He highlighted the diversity of worship practices in Indian culture, where some visit temples, others mosques, and some gurdwaras, yet all are united as Indians. Our culture, heritage, and history are one.
Gadkari also shared his experiences from a visit to Iran, where he traveled to develop the Chabahar port while serving as Shipping Minister. He learned that the Persian language is derived from Sanskrit, which he regards as our root language. He noted that Tehran University has a department for Sanskrit studies.
He emphasized that whether it’s Kashmir or Guwahati, the land, heritage, and history of the country are unified. He underscored the importance of unity in diversity. The party’s goal has always been to serve the nation, promote social harmony, and protect cultural heritage. He urged party workers to work with this spirit for the unity and development of the country. He described the 40-year journey as inspiring and called for continued dedication and commitment to the nation and society.
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