Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday celebrated his 54th birthday at the party headquarters, cutting his cake holding national president Mallikarjun Kharge’s hand and sharing the first bite with him. His sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, party general secretary KC Venugopal and treasurer Ajay Maken were also present.
The Congress posted a video of the celebrations at the party office, where Gandhi also interacted with party workers who wished him on his birthday. The MP has instructed all workers to avoid any grand celebrations and, instead, celebrate this occasion by engaging in humanitarian efforts and charity. Honouring his wishes, Indian Youth Congress workers distributed air coolers to shelter home dwellers in Delhi.
In a post on X, the Congress said, “Happy birthday to a leader who taught us to ‘Choose Love’. Choose love when hate is hurled at you. Choose love when kindness appears impossible. Choose love when the going gets tough. Choose love when compassion depletes.”
“One leader who stood against anger, hatred and tears. One leader who led from the front to reclaim our democracy. One leader who ushered in light and rekindled hope. Thank you for being you Rahul Gandhi ji,” the party said, also sharing a number of videos calling Gandhi ‘Jannayak’.
About Rahul, Kharge said his qualities of unwavering commitment to the values espoused in the Constitution and his emphatic compassion for the millions of unheard voices set him apart. In a post on X earlier, he extended his birthday greetings.
“Your unwavering commitment to the values espoused in the Constitution of India and your emphatic compassion for the millions of unheard voices, are the qualities which sets you apart,” Kharge said.
He added: “Congress party’s ethos of unity in diversity, harmony and compassion, is visible in all your actions, as you continue in your mission to wipe off the tear from the last person standing, by showing the mirror of truth to power.”
Kharge wished Rahul a long, healthy and happy life ahead. Responding to this post, the former Congress president said, “Congress President Kharge ji, thank you very much for your kind wishes. Your leadership and guidance inspires us all to continue fighting for an equitable and just India.”
He also thanked Congress leaders, workers and others for wishing him on his birthday.
Priyanka posted a heartfelt message for her brother on social media and said he was her “friend, argumentative guide, philosopher and leader”. “Happy Birthday to my sweet brother whose unique perspective on life, the universe and everything lights up the path. Always my friend, my fellow traveller, argumentative guide, philosopher and leader. Keep shining (star emojis), love you the most!” the Congress general secretary said.
Venugopal said on X, “I join crores of Indians in wishing our beloved leader Sh. Rahul Gandhi ji a very happy birthday! Rahul ji is the undisputed leader of India’s poor, marginalised and backward citizens. The voice of the voiceless, the pillar of strength for the weak, the guardian of our Constitution, the quintessential Nyay Yoddha, and India’s brightest hope for a glorious future!”
Telangana CM A Revanth Reddy also wished Gandhi and said his persona is to fight against all odds. “His outlook is to stand by the underprivileged. Sacrifice is inheritance and fighting is his philosophy. He is sagacious and the only leader to fulfil India’s aspirations for tomorrow,” Reddy said.
INDIA Bloc leaders extend birthday wishes
Birthday wishes from INDIA bloc leaders also poured in for the Congress leader. Tamil Nadu chief minister and DMK chief MK Stalin hailed him on his birthday.
“Happy Birthday, dear brother Rahul Gandhi! Your dedication to the people of our country will take you to great heights. Wishing you a year of continued progress and success,” Stalin said on X.
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav and NCP (SCP) chief Sharad Pawar also wished Gandhi on his birthday. “Warm Birthday Greetings Rahul Gandhi. Wishing you healthy, long and successful life ahead,” Pawar said on X.
Pawar’s daughter and Lok Sabha MP Supriya Sule wished Gandhi a healthy year ahead. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray also wished Gandhi on his birthday.
RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav said: “Happiest returns of the day brother Rahul Gandhi! You have exhibited remarkable vision and leadership. Wishing you a long, happy, healthy and successful life ahead!”
(With PTI inputs)