New Delhi:
Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will unveil the portraits of Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Bharat Ratna Madan Mohan Malaviya at the Delhi Legislative Assembly on January 3, 2026. The announcement was made by Delhi Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta, who described the event as a historic tribute to two towering figures in India’s democracy, education, culture, and public life. The portraits will be permanently installed in the Assembly Hall, symbolizing deep respect and lasting homage to their unparalleled contributions.
The unveiling ceremony will also mark the release of a special coffee table book titled *“Bharat Mata”*, published to commemorate 150 years of the composition of the national song *Vande Mataram*. The publication presents Indian nationalism through art, architecture, and literature, reflecting the nation’s cultural and ideological heritage. Ahead of the event, the Speaker chaired a high-level meeting with senior officials from Delhi Police and various government departments to ensure comprehensive preparations.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will attend the ceremony as the Chief Guest. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and Padma Bhushan awardee Ram Bahadur Rai, Chairman of the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts, will be present as distinguished guests. The programme will also see the presence of Parvesh Sahib Singh, Minister for Legislative Affairs, and Deputy Speaker Mohan Singh Bisht, while Speaker Vijender Gupta will preside over the event. Artists from the Sahitya Kala Parishad will present a cultural programme focused on patriotism, reflecting India’s rich artistic and national heritage.
The high-level preparation meeting included senior officials from Delhi Police, Public Works Department, Horticulture Department, Fire Services, Health Department, and Delhi Assembly Secretariat. The Speaker directed all officials to ensure the event is conducted smoothly, safely, and with dignity, emphasizing security arrangements, crowd management, traffic control, ambulance availability, and adequate parking. Approximately 1,000 participants are expected, and all departments were instructed to coordinate closely.
Atal Bihari Vajpayee, a three-time Prime Minister of India, was a statesman, poet, and celebrated orator whose visionary leadership strengthened national security, advanced economic reforms, and elevated India’s global stature. Madan Mohan Malaviya, revered as Mahamana, was a prominent freedom fighter, educationist, and parliamentarian who dedicated his life to India’s independence and social upliftment. He strongly opposed the repressive Rowlatt Act, delivering five historic speeches, one lasting six and a half hours. Malaviya served in the Imperial Legislative Council from 1910 to 1920 and in the Central Legislative Assembly from 1924 to 1930, delivering a total of 440 influential speeches that established a remarkable parliamentary legacy.
Speaker Vijender Gupta said that installing the portraits is a meaningful tribute to the leaders’ lifelong dedication to public service and democratic values. He added that their ideals of patriotism, courage, and civic service continue to inspire legislators and citizens alike. Speaking about *“Bharat Mata”*, the Speaker highlighted that the book captures the evolution of India’s national consciousness through art and literature, offering readers a deeper understanding of the nation’s cultural identity.
The coffee table book presents Indian nationalism through diverse artistic and cultural expressions, compiling selected paintings, architectural works, and literary pieces that reinforce India’s unity, cultural pride, and national identity across generations.
The Delhi Legislative Assembly expressed pride in dedicating this special programme to two of India’s greatest leaders. Their enduring legacy serves as a reminder of their unwavering commitment to the nation, democratic principles, and public welfare, offering guidance and inspiration for future generations and illuminating the path of India’s progress.
