Key Highlights:
- Ashes Immersion Ceremony: The ashes of Dr. Manmohan Singh, India’s 13th Prime Minister, were immersed in the Yamuna near Gurudwara Majnu Ka Tilla, Delhi.
- Legacy Remembered: Singh, widely regarded as the architect of India’s economic reforms, passed away on December 26 at the age of 92 due to age-related medical conditions.
- State Honours and Tributes: The former PM’s last rites were conducted with full state honours, attended by dignitaries including the President, PM Modi, and top officials.
- National Mourning Declared: A seven-day national mourning period has been announced, with the national flag flying at half-mast as a mark of respect.
- Emotional Farewell: A procession from the Congress headquarters to the crematorium saw leaders, family, and supporters chanting tributes to the stalwart leader.
New Delhi: India paid its final respects to former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, whose ashes were immersed in the Yamuna River near Gurudwara Majnu Ka Tilla, Delhi, on Sunday. The solemn ceremony marked the conclusion of the last rites for a leader who redefined the country’s economic landscape.
Dr. Singh’s Passing: A National Loss
Dr. Manmohan Singh passed away on December 26, 2024, at the age of 92. Admitted to AIIMS Delhi following a sudden loss of consciousness at his residence, his death was attributed to age-related medical conditions, as confirmed by the hospital.
The news of his demise left the nation mourning the loss of a statesman who served as Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014 and was instrumental in ushering India into an era of liberalization and globalization.
State Honours and Emotional Tributes
Dr. Singh’s last rites were conducted with full state honours on Saturday.
- High-Profile Attendance: The funeral witnessed the presence of President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Ministers Amit Shah and Rajnath Singh, and top defence and foreign officials.
- Family’s Emotional Farewell: Gursharan Kaur, Singh’s wife, laid a wreath on his body, and his daughter lit the funeral pyre at the crematorium.
- Congress Headquarters Homage: Earlier in the day, Congress leaders gathered at the party headquarters to pay their respects.
A flower-decked vehicle carrying the mortal remains of the former Prime Minister departed amid chants of “Manmohan Singh Amar Rahe,” symbolizing the deep respect he commanded across the nation.
A Seven-Day National Mourning
The Union Home Ministry declared a seven-day national mourning period to honour Dr. Singh.
- During this time, the national flag will fly at half-mast across the country.
- No official celebrations or events will take place, as the nation reflects on the legacy of a leader whose vision transformed India.
A Legacy to Cherish
Dr. Manmohan Singh’s tenure as Prime Minister and his role as the Finance Minister during the 1991 economic crisis are widely regarded as pivotal moments in India’s history.
- Known as the architect of economic reforms, Singh’s policies opened India’s doors to global markets, paving the way for sustained economic growth.
- His humility, intellect, and steadfast commitment to progress earned him admiration worldwide.
Ashes Immersed in Yamuna: A Final Goodbye
The immersion of Dr. Singh’s ashes in the Yamuna River symbolized a respectful farewell to a leader who dedicated his life to the service of the nation. The quiet ceremony near Gurudwara Majnu Ka Tilla was attended by family members and close associates.
India’s Gratitude and Reflection
As the nation observes the mourning period, citizens and leaders alike reflect on the indelible mark Dr. Manmohan Singh has left on India’s political and economic landscape. His vision, integrity, and contributions will continue to inspire generations to come.
India bids farewell, but the legacy of Dr. Singh lives on a testament to his enduring impact on the country he so passionately served.
