ADDRESS BY THE HON’BLE PRESIDENT OF INDIA SMT. DROUPADI MURMU AT UNVEILING CEREMONY OF THE BUST OF LATE SHRI K R NARAYANAN, FORMER PRESIDENT OF INDIA

I am happy to be present here among you all today to pay tribute to the former President of India, Late Shri K R Narayanan. Shri Narayanan was an eminent statesman, diplomat, and scholar. I consider it an honour to unveil the bust of Late Shri K R Narayanan here at Raj Bhavan today. I would like to thank Shri Ram Nath Kovind ji, Former President of India under whose guidance this initiative has been taken. I am sure that his memory will inspire people to uphold the values of equality, integrity and public service that he stood for. Late Shri K R Narayanan’s life is a story of courage, perseverance, and self-belief. Through immense dedication and the power of education, he went on to occupy the highest constitutional office of our nation. His academic excellence was a symbol of what determination and opportunity can accomplish when guided by purpose.

Before entering politics, Shri K R Narayanan built a distinguished career in the Indian Foreign Service. Shri Narayanan upheld India’s values of peace, justice, and cooperation with utmost sincerity. After his diplomatic career, he was elected to Parliament and went on to serve as Union Minister. He was always steadfast to the principles of fairness and inclusion.

Shri Narayanan was also the Vice-President of India. His journey reached its peak when he became the President of India. He carried into the Rashtrapati Bhavan not only his experience as a statesman but also wisdom and humility of his personality.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Shri Narayanan was deeply rooted in his connection to Kerala, his home state. He drew inspiration from its social progress and emphasis on education and inclusivity. Even after reaching the highest office, Shri Narayanan remained connected to his roots. Throughout his life, Shri Narayanan emphasised the role of education in human and national development. For him, education was not a privilege for the few, but a right for all. Shri Narayanan believed that human values are essential for the growth of a civilisation and are fundamental to the development of a society.

As our nation moves ahead to achieve the goal of Viksit Bharat, it is essential to ensure that all citizens, especially the weakest and most marginalised, get equal opportunities to realise their dreams. Shri K R Narayanan has left behind a rich legacy of morality, integrity, compassion, and democratic spirit. As we remember him today, let us draw inspiration from his life which was dedicated to nation-building, to create a more inclusive, just, and compassionate India.

Thank you!
Jai Hind!
Jai Bharat!