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Pranab Mukherjee, a shining star of Indian politics and a true friend of Bangladesh, passed away. He died on August 31 while receiving treatment at the Army Research and Referral Hospital in New Delhi. The Indian government has declared seven days of state mourning since Monday for his death. The Bangladeshi government also observed a state day of mourning on September 2.
Posting an image of the former Indian President touching his feet and receiving blessings, Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote on Twitter: “India is mourning the death of Bharat Ratna Shri Pranab Mukherjee. He has made an outstanding contribution to the development of the country. Tributes were paid by politicians from all the ruling and opposition parties of India, as well as by eminent people from various fields.
Pranab Mukherjee was a true friend of Bangladesh from birth. Many become friends throughout life and many want to be friends, either on an individual or state level. However, not all friends are genuine and cannot be. He who loves selflessly can be a true friend. That is why caution is needed when choosing friends.
Pranab Mukherjee’s unique contribution as a politician and close friend in the great liberation war of Bangladesh will never be forgotten. At that time, as a young member of Rajya Sabha, he echoed his appreciation from the Government of India and the Government of Bangladesh.
And that is why the then Prime Minister of India, Indira Gandhi, began to give it importance. Pranab writes, after Indira sent him on a tour of different countries to form public opinion in favor of Bangladesh with one responsibility after another. And through this he became involved in a genuine bond with the people of Bangladesh.
He became one of Indira Gandhi’s most loyal allies by playing a role on various issues, including the Bangladesh Liberation War. After the murder of the nation’s father Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman on August 15, 1975, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was always supported by Pranab Mukherjee while in exile in India.
In those difficult times, he kept a record of Bangabandhu’s daughters, Sheikh Hasina and Sheikh Rehana, and stood by their side in any need. In March 2013, Bangladesh honored Pranab Mukherjee with the Liberation War Award for his outstanding contribution to the liberation war.
In his personal life, Pranab Mukherjee was married to Shuvra Mukherjee, who settled in West Bengal with his family from Bhadrabila in Narail on July 13, 1956. He visited Bangladesh in 2013 as President of India and visited his father-in-law’s home for first time.
We are saddened by the death of Pranab Mukherjee. As friends of Bangladesh, we also feel your lack, let us remember your contribution.
Gopal Adhikari: Essay
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