President Droupadi Murmu unveiled a bust of former President K. R. Narayanan at the Kerala Raj Bhavan on Wednesday. The ceremony celebrated Narayanan’s enduring legacy as a symbol of courage, integrity, and democratic values.
Addressing the gathering, President Murmu described Narayanan’s life as “a story of courage, perseverance, and self-belief.” She noted how, through education and determination, he rose from humble beginnings in Kerala to occupy the country’s highest constitutional office — inspiring generations to come.
The President praised Narayanan’s illustrious career in the Indian Foreign Service and his later transition to national politics, where he remained a steadfast advocate for equality, justice, and social inclusion. “He believed that education is not a privilege, but a right for all,” Murmu said, underscoring his lifelong commitment to empowering the marginalized.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including former President Ram Nath Kovind, Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, Bihar Governor Arif Mohammed Khan, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, and other senior officials, who paid homage to Narayanan’s statesmanship and visionary leadership.
Concluding her remarks, President Murmu called upon citizens to draw inspiration from Narayanan’s life of integrity, compassion, and service to humanity, urging the nation to uphold the ideals he championed — fairness, inclusivity, and democratic spirit — as India moves toward a more just and progressive future.
