The funeral procession of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh reached Nigambodh Ghat in New Delhi’s Kashmere Gate on Saturday. The nation bid farewell to one of its most respected statesmen, with full state honors accorded to the departed leader. The last rites are set to be performed in the presence of government dignitaries and officials, including President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah was among the early arrivals at Nigambodh Ghat to pay his respects, followed by Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, along with Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, will also attend the ceremony at the VIP Ghat, where the cremation rituals will be conducted. Acharya Yogesh Kumar Sharma, overseeing the proceedings, stated that the rites would follow Sikh traditions and utilize sandalwood sticks.
“The rituals will be performed using sandalwood sticks as per Sikh traditions. Homage will be offered once all dignitaries, including the President, Vice President, and Prime Minister, arrive at the location,” Acharya Yogesh Kumar Sharma said.
Congress leaders and dignitaries paid heartfelt tributes to Dr. Manmohan Singh, reflecting on his immense contributions to the nation. Congress leader Madhusudan Mistry highlighted Dr. Manmohan Singh’s legacy of enacting laws that benefited millions, describing his demise as “a loss for everyone.” Mumtaz Patel, another Congress leader, remembered him as a kind and strong leader, rejecting the notion of his perceived weakness. “He always worked for the betterment of the country and was a great human being,” Mumtaz Patel remarked.
Congress Member of Parliament Manish Tewari described Dr. Manmohan Singh as “a fine person, a renowned economist, and a world statesman,” emphasizing the simplicity and nobility of his life. “It is a sad day not only for India but for the world. May his soul rest in peace,” Manish Tewari added.
Earlier in the day, Dr. Manmohan Singh’s mortal remains were kept at the All India Congress Committee headquarters, allowing party workers and citizens to pay their final respects. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge spoke to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, requesting a dedicated memorial site for Dr. Manmohan Singh. Amit Shah later conveyed that the government would allocate space for the memorial after forming the required trust.
As the nation mourns the loss of a visionary leader, Dr. Manmohan Singh’s legacy remains a beacon of humility, intellect, and service to India.
