PM Narendra Modi Thanks 'Father Figure' Pranab Mukherjee in Farewell Letter

New Delhi: In a farewell letter for President Pranab Mukherjee on his last day in office, Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised a toast to his“simplicity, high principles and exemplary leadership” among other things.

Referring to the veteran politician as a “father figure”, Modi thanked Mukherjee for being “warm, affectionate and caring” towards him.

President Mukherjee on Wednesday shared images of the letter saying, “On my last day in office as the President, I received a letter from PM @narendramodi that touched my heart! Sharing with you all.”

PM Modi talked about how ‘Pranab Da’ has been a guiding force for him in the hot seat of power. “Three years ago, I came to New Delhi as an outsider. The task before me was huge and challenging. In these times, you have always been a father figure and a mentor to me. Your wisdom, guidance and personal warmth have given me greater confidence and strength.”

Modi shares an instance when Mukherjee called him up to enquire about his health. “You have been so warm, affectionate and caring to me. Your one phone call asking me "I hope you are taking care of your health" was enough to fill me with fresh energy, after a long day at meetings or on a campaign tour,” said the letter.

The PM admired Mukherjee’s vast knowledge base and wrote, “That you are a repository of knowledge is well known. I have always marvelled at your insights on various subjects, ranging from policy to politics, economics to external affairs, and security issues to subjects of national and global importance. Your intellectual prowess has constantly helped my government and me.”

These two seasoned politicians come from two starkly different political backgrounds but they , maintained an extremely cordial relationship for these three years that the NDA government has been at the helm of things.

Modi wrote, “Pranab Da, our political journeys took shape in different political parties. Our ideologies, at times, have been different. Our experiences are also varied. My administrative experience was from my state, whereas you have seen the expanse of our national polity and politics for decades. Yet, such is the strength of your intellect and wisdom that we were able to work together with synergy.”

The PM ended the letter with, “Your legacy will continue to guide us. Rashtrapati ji, it has been an honour to work with you, as your Prime Minister!”