“We believe the world is one. We don’t just wish for our own prosperity, but also wish for everyone’s prosperity.”
– Sushma Swaraj at the UNO
One of the few BJP leaders that I truly admired and respected is no more – Sushma Swaraj!
I have always admired, and respected her for a no-nonsense, hard-working, result-oriented, and humanistic approach to her work. Late Smt. Sushma Swaraj was an astounding politician. She was Prime Minister material for me. My vote would have surely gone to her.
One of the BJP’s most efficient leaders, her professionalism, combined with a sense of duty towards people, won many hearts. She served on an impressive list of portfolios and roles during her political career. Sushma Swaraj was the first and only woman to get the ‘Outstanding Parliamentarian’ award.
She was also the BJP’s first female Chief Minister, spokesperson, leader of the opposition, general secretary and Minister for External Affairs (a post also held previously by the Indira Gandhi).
Apart from her professionalism, Ms Swaraj earned the reputation of being a Good Samaritan. Her good-heartedness towards anyone who approached her for help was known to all. Be it rescuing a woman in Africa, or the woman who lost her passport in Germany, or the 168 Indians held hostage in Iraq, or her rescue operation during the Yemen crisis, or responding promptly during the Nepal Earthquake relief operations, Ms Swaraj always considered her good deeds as her duty and not as a favour done to anyone.
Not only was she liked immensely by the people, but also praised for her quick response and supreme work ethics by the Opposition as well.
Great leaders who inspire by their example are rare. Sushma Swaraj, truly has been an inspiration to one and all by example. Us Indians are fortunate to have been blessed with an exemplary leader and woman icon in Sushma Swaraj.
A woman of exceptional intelligence, depth, grace, and class, it’s rare to come across politicians like her.
While she was a warm, charming, and approachable person with a perennial smile on her face, Sushma Swaraj had a captivating air of mystery and intrigue around her. Elegantly draped in a saree, she was an autonomous and independent woman.
“As a woman and an elected Member of Parliament, it has been my firm conviction that there is a shortcut to real social change — empowering the girl child.”
As I write this post, I am shocked that she is no more. Gone way too soon, but will live in our hearts forever!
RIP Sushma Swaraj!
Note: This article was first published here.