Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s demise has left the entire nation in sorrow.

A journalist, poet and a shrewd statesman, his contribution for all-round development of the country can never be forgotten.

In spite of his tall stature, he was humble and down-to-earth. He ensured that India finds its right place in the world, thanks to his tireless work.

Atal in Hindi means unshakable and he lived up to the name. He was firm, tenacious yet friendly. An amiable smile was never lost from his face.

Even when his government was brought down in less than two weeks from office, Vajpayee was not shaken. He know he would bounce back.

As it happened he remained in the top job until 2004 after that. His refusal to budge in the face of fierce Western pressure after India conducted five nuclear tests, less than two months after his second term in May 1998, speaks volumes of his courage and vision.

He will be remembered for his outreach to Pakistan. In February 1999, India and Pakistan launched the New Delhi-Lahore bus service thanks to his efforts.

But at the same time, in May 1999, when Pakistan launched an attack in Kargil, without hesitation he gave them back what they deserved. It took the Indian Army and Air Force two months, sacrificing some 500 lives, to evict intruders.

Running a coalition government with parties of varied interests was no easy task. But Vajpayee made the impossible possible.

He was a perfect captain who steered the ship called India to safety. His Golden Quadilateral increased India’s GDP and his aggressive science and research polices brought glory to the nation.

A versatile poet, who had passion a great passion for art and culture, his death has left a void. Atal ji Amar Rahe!