PM Modi's Tribute to Munawwar Rana Testament to A Culture of Respect And Unity

For lovers of Urdu literature, the demise of Munawwar Rana marks a sad moment. A prolific poet, Rana’s life and work resonate far and wide. Rana (71) had been suffering from throat cancer and breathed his last at the Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences in Lucknow on Sunday.

Born in 1952 in Raebareli, Rana was awarded the Jnanpith Award in 2014. His poems are highly popular among the common people. Whether addressing issues of social injustice, political turbulence, or the broader human condition, Rana’s work has acted as a conduit for fostering dialogue and challenging prevailing narratives.

A vocal critic of the BJP, Rana’s unique ability to intertwine his art with socio-political commentary set him apart in the literary landscape. His words were not just an artistic expression but a powerful tool to question authority and provoke thought. In the wake of his passing, his literary contributions stand as a testament to the enduring power of art to touch the collective soul of a nation.

In a world where political ideologies clash and rhetoric often overshadows reason, Prime Minister Modi’s tribute to Rana’s poetic legacy serves as a reminder that art transcends the confines of partisanship.

The Prime Minister’s gesture, beyond the routine political courtesy, exemplifies a statesmanlike approach that rises above party lines. It underscores the recognition of a shared cultural heritage that binds the diverse tapestry of India.

The ability to extend condolences to a vocal critic reflects a nuanced understanding of the role of art and the intrinsic value of differing perspectives. It echoes sentiments expressed in previous instances where Modi displayed empathy irrespective of political affiliations.

When Sonia Gandhi was admitted to AIIMS back in 2013, Modi, then the Gujarat chief minister, took the lead in expressing his wishes for her speedy recovery. He extended the same courtesy when she was recovering from Covid in 2022.

Similarly, in bidding goodbye to then Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad on his retirement from the Rajya Sabha, Modi’s teary-eyed farewell is remembered for the personal touch that transcended political differences. The emotional send-off highlighted the statesmanlike trait that has endeared him to the masses.

Beyond political rivalries, Modi’s respect for leaders from across the spectrum is evident. His homage to former President Pranab Mukherjee on his birth anniversary acknowledged the late leader’s “intellectual depth” that profoundly shaped India.

Greeting former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on his 91st birthday in 2023, he exemplified a recognition of the contributions of his predecessors irrespective of party lines.

Another instance was when veteran actress Shabana Azmi met with a serious accident. Modi, known for his active social media presence, posted his concern for her well-being. This act of transcending political boundaries to convey empathy was notable and received acknowledgment even from those ideologically opposed to him.

Modi recently penned a handwritten letter to the daughter of late veteran journalist Vinod Dua, another critic, conveying a sense of compassion that goes beyond the obligations of political leadership.

On a lighter note, Modi showcased his ability to engage in banter and lightheartedness when discussing Twinkle Khanna’s critiques of his policies on X during an interview with actor Akshay Kumar. The Prime Minister’s humour in acknowledging social media dynamics demonstrates a side of leadership that can engage beyond the seriousness of politics.

Through these instances, Modi emerges not just as a political figure but as a leader who recognises the shared human experience that unites us all. In an era marked by acrimonious politics and personal attacks, Modi’s actions stand out.

As the nation mourns the departure of Munnawar Rana, Modi has taken the lead in showing that leadership and politics need not be devoid of compassion. His ability to extend condolences to both friends and critics sets a precedent for a more compassionate and united political discourse. The essence of statesmanship lies not just in political victories but in the empathetic acknowledgment of the human condition.