He is one of the very few to remain unsullied in the game of intrigue and power that has come to define the world of politics.
Such is his credibility that when he stands up in Parliament, there is a respectful silence. A respect born out of years of great oratory and incisive logic, put forth with disarming wit.
Business tycoons swear by his economic policies. He is the glue that holds together leaders with diametrically opposite views. World leaders listen to his words carefully. Rival countries look up to him for peace. And militants are willing to listen to his reason.
He is Atal Bihari Vajpayee. rediff.com wishes the Indian prime minister many happy returns of the day.
Design: Rahil Shaikh | Research: Rupali Nimkar