New Delhi, March 17: Manohar Parrikar, the former Chief Minister of Goa and India’s Defence Minister, was known for his remarkable simplicity. Despite holding a high office, he never abandoned his love for riding a scooter or enjoying tea by the roadside. His down-to-earth persona often left even the most senior officials unable to recognize him.
Born on December 13, 1955, in Mapusa, Goa, Parrikar was an active member of the RSS. He was introduced to politics by the prominent BJP leader Pramod Mahajan. Starting his journey with a loss, Parrikar eventually became a pivotal figure in establishing the BJP in Goa. His integrity, simplicity, and dedication have inspired many leaders and the younger generation today.
Even as a VIP, Parrikar lived like an ordinary citizen. He often donned half-sleeve shirts and sandals while riding his scooter through the streets of Goa. On several occasions, when he faced traffic, he would hop onto someone else’s vehicle to continue his journey. The people of Goa affectionately referred to him as the “Scooter CM.”
For Parrikar, drinking tea by the roadside was a way to connect with the realities of the nation and state. In an interview, he stated, “Drinking tea by the roadside is the most important task, and all politicians should do it, as you gather all the information about the state at a tea stall.”
His simplicity sometimes led to amusing situations. Once, while visiting a five-star hotel in Delhi, he was stopped by the doorman who failed to recognize him. This was not an isolated incident. When he first became Chief Minister and visited Bengaluru, he left his hotel with his bag, unnoticed by anyone, despite the heavy security arrangements. He recounted, “As a new Chief Minister, people did not recognize me by face. When I arrived in Bengaluru, officials were looking for me, and someone informed them that the Chief Minister had already left.”
Parrikar’s legacy was not just his simplicity. He was also credited with significant contributions to Goa’s development, earning him the title of the architect of modern Goa.
During his tenure in central politics, he traveled in economy class and carried his own bag. As Defence Minister, Parrikar enhanced India’s security capabilities and prioritized indigenous defense products. His decisions also positively impacted the lives of veterans.
Parrikar served as Defence Minister from November 9, 2014, until March 13, 2017. He took the oath as Chief Minister of Goa again on March 14, 2017, and passed away on March 17, 2019.
Leave a Comment