Early and Personal Life
Lal Krishna Advani, often referred to as L.K. Advani, was born on November 8, 1927, in Karachi, which was then part of British India. He belongs to a Sindhi Hindu Lohana family, with his father, Kishanchand D. Advani, and mother, Gyani Devi. Growing up in Karachi, Advani attended St. Patrick's High School, where he laid the foundations of his education. He later pursued higher studies at D.G. National College in Hyderabad, Sindh. The tumultuous events surrounding the partition of India in 1947 forced his family to migrate to India, where they settled in Bombay. Advani continued his education and graduated with a degree in Law from the prestigious Government Law College at Bombay University, equipping him with the legal knowledge that would later shape his political career.
In February 1965, Advani married Kamla Advani, a significant partner in his life who stood beside him through the early years of his political journey. Together, they welcomed two children: a son, Jayant, and a daughter, Pratibha. Pratibha has taken an active role in the television industry as a producer and has also been supportive of her father’s political endeavors, often participating in various activities and campaigns. The family's bond has remained strong, reflecting their deep-rooted values and commitment to each other. Tragically, Kamla Advani passed away on April 6, 2016, due to complications associated with old age, marking a profound loss in Advani's life. Currently, Advani resides in Delhi, where he continues to engage with political matters and contribute to public life, reflecting his enduring commitment to the country and its democratic processes.
Advani's early years from 1941 to 1951 were marked by significant involvement in the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), an organization deeply rooted in the ideology of Hindu nationalism. At just fourteen, he joined the RSS, demonstrating a commitment that would shape his future political career. His initiation into this organization coincided with a transformative period in India's history, as the country was on the brink of independence and undergoingsocial and political upheaval.
After joining, Advani quickly ascended within the ranks of the RSS, taking on the role of pracharak, or full-time worker. In this capacity, he was responsible for organizing and leading shakhas, which are local branches where cultural and social education is imparted to participants. His dedication to the RSS led to his appointment as the secretary of the Karachi unit in 1947, a position that indicated both his leadership capabilities and the trust placed in him by his peers. The partition of India in the same year presented new challenges, influencing the socio-political landscape of the region and further embedding Advani within the network of nationalist activism.
Following the partition, Advani transitioned to Rajasthan, where he continued his work as a pracharak. From 1947 to 1952, he was actively involved in various districts such as Alwar, Bharatpur, Kota, Bundi, and Jhalawar. During this time, he not only spread the ideology of the RSS but also helped address the concerns of communities fractured by partition, focusing on national integration and the reaffirmation of cultural identity. This period laid the groundwork for Advani's later political endeavors and solidified his position as a prominent figure within the Indian political landscape. Ultimately, these formative years not only shaped Advani's ideology but also provided him with invaluable experience that he would carry into his future roles within Indian politics.
Advani's Early Political Journey in the Jana Sangh
L K Advani embarked on his political career by joining the Bharatiya Jana Sangh (BJS), a party established in 1951 by Syama Prasad Mookerjee, who aimed to promote the values of Hindutva and nationalist sentiments in India. The party emerged as a political wing of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), which had been instrumental in shaping a nationalist ideology. Advani's early involvement included serving as the secretary to S. S. Bhandari, who was then the general secretary of the Jana Sangh in Rajasthan. This position provided him with vital insights into the workings of the party and the grassroots dynamics of Indian politics.
In 1957, Advani's political trajectory took a significant turn when he relocated to Delhi, where he quickly ascended the ranks within the Jana Sangh. He became the general secretary of the Delhi unit, showcasing his organizational skills and dedication to the party's principles. Notably, Advani's leadership capabilities were recognized when he served as the leader of the BJS in the Delhi Metropolitan Council (DMC) from 1966 to 1967. His tenure was marked by active participation in local governance and a commitment to representing the interests of his constituents.
Following the conclusion of the 1967 Delhi Metropolitan Council elections, Advani was elected as the chairman of the council, a role he steadfastly held until 1970. This position not only elevated his political stature but also allowed him to influence local policy-making and governance in the capital. Adjacent to his political duties, Advani was heavily involved in the publication of the Organiser, the weekly newsletter of the RSS, where he worked alongside K. R. Malkani. His engagement with the national executive of the RSS in 1966 further solidified his role in the broader Hindutva movement and provided him with a platform to voice his political ideals.
Through these formative years, Advani laid the foundation for his future as a prominent leader in Indian politics, marking the beginning of a journey that would see him navigating complex political landscapes while championing the values he believed in.
Advani's entry into Parliament marked a significant phase in his political career, beginning in 1970 when he was elected as a member of the Rajya Sabha representing Delhi. The Rajya Sabha, known as the upper house of India's Parliament, plays a crucial role in legislative processes, and Advani's election to this body indicated his rising influence within Indian politics. His tenure started in a dynamic period of Indian history, characterized by social, political, and economic challenges, which would shape his future political endeavors.
By 1973, Advani's leadership qualities were recognized when he was elected as the president of the Bharatiya Janata Sangh (BJS) during the party's working committee meeting held in Kanpur. The BJS later evolved into the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which became one of the two major political parties in India. His presidency was pivotal in strengthening the party's grassroots connections and expanding its influence across the country, especially among supporters of Hindu nationalism. Advani's leadership during this period was characterized by strategic vision and a deep commitment to the party's core ideologies, laying the groundwork for its future electoral successes.
Advani’s rise in the Rajya Sabha and leadership in the BJS further highlighted his dedication to advocating for the interests of Hindus in a secular state. Throughout his tenure, he actively championed issues concerning the rights of Hindus and was instrumental in articulating a vision for India that resonated with a large section of the populace. His tenure as a parliamentarian and party leader was marked by a deep engagement with different socio-cultural movements across India, which helped to solidify the party's identity and expand its electoral base in the years to come.
In summary, L K Advani's election to the Rajya Sabha in 1970 and subsequent presidency of the BJS in 1973 were key milestones that not only defined his political trajectory but also significantly impacted the broader political landscape of India in the decades that followed. His contributions during this period showcased his commitment to political activism and leadership, influencing not just his party but also the socio-political discourse of the time.
Election and Re-election to Rajya Sabha
In 1976, L K Advani was re-elected to the Rajya Sabha from Gujarat, marking his second term in this key legislative body. His re-election came during a turbulent time in Indian politics, particularly following the imposition of the Emergency by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. This period, lasting from 1975 to 1977, was characterized by severe restrictions on civil liberties, suppression of dissent, and the curtailment of political freedoms. As a response to the authoritarian measures taken by the government, Advani's party, the Bharatiya Jana Sangh (BJS), alongside other opposition groups, came together to form the Janata Party. The unification of these parties symbolized a collective resistance against the Emergency and sought to restore democracy in India.
Janata Party's Rise to Power
The Janata Party's emergence coincided with the public's growing discontent with the Emergency. In the 1977 general elections, the coalition enjoyed a remarkable victory, securing a majority that signified the electorate's repudiation of Indira Gandhi’s rule. Morarji Desai was appointed as the Prime Minister, and Advani was designated as the Minister of Information and Broadcasting. During this tenure, Advani aimed to promote transparency and free expression, which were sorely needed in the wake of the previous government's censorship practices. The Janata Party's governance, however, faced challenges, including internal divisions and coalition politics, which ultimately led to its instability.
Dissolution and Shift in Political Landscape
Despite the initial triumphs, the Janata Party government was unable to complete its full five-year term. In 1980, the coalition was dissolved, leading to new elections where the Janata Party faced a significant defeat against the Indian National Congress, which saw Indira Gandhi return to power. Following this electoral setback, Advani transitioned into the role of Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha. This new position did not diminish his influence in Indian politics as he continued to advocate for his party’s values, strategically navigating opposition to the Congress government while also working to strengthen the Janata Party's base for future electoral battles. His experience during this period laid the groundwork for the evolving political dynamics in India and the eventual rise of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the following decade.
Formation of the BJP
On April 6, 1980, L K Advani, along with several members of the Jana Sangh, made a pivotal decision to quit the Janata Party. This move led to the creation of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), with Atal Bihari Vajpayee stepping in as its first president. The late 1970s were a turbulent time for Indian politics, marked by internal discontent and factional strife within the Janata Party. However, the period also witnessed a significant increase in support for the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), which laid the foundational ideological groundwork for the new political entity. The BJP aimed to rekindle the ideals espoused by the Jana Sangh, focusing on nationalism and Hindutva, thereby striving to establish a more unified political narrative.
Electoral Challenges and Ideological Shift
In 1982, Advani solidified his position in Indian politics by being elected to the Rajya Sabha for the third time, representing Madhya Pradesh under the BJP banner. However, the party faced considerable challenges in the 1984 general elections, managing to secure only two seats as the Congress party won decisively. This electoral setback, largely attributed to a sympathy wave following the assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, proved to be a catalyst for change within the BJP. In response, Advani was appointed party president, and the BJP made a strategic pivot towards embracing Hindutva ideology, a cornerstone of the Jana Sangh’s philosophy. This ideological transformation sought to resonate more deeply with a Hindu nationalist sentiment that was increasingly prevalent in the country.
The Ayodhya Dispute and Electoral Success
Under Advani's leadership, the BJP became synonymous with the Ayodhya dispute, a significant flashpoint in Indian politics during the late 1980s. The controversy revolved around the Ram Janmabhoomi site, where the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) launched a campaign for the construction of a temple dedicated to Lord Rama, claiming that a temple had existed at the site before being destroyed by Mughal emperor Babur. Archaeological surveys lent credence to the BJP's claims, bolstering their political stance. The BJP not only supported this campaign but also integrated it into their election manifesto for the 1989 elections. This strategic positioning paid off, resulting in the BJP winning an impressive 86 seats in the Lok Sabha, and Advani ultimately securing a seat as well, marking his first election into the lower house of Parliament.
After the elections, the political landscape shifted once again when the National Front government, led by VP Singh, came to power. As the primary opposition party, Advani became the leader of the opposition in Lok Sabha, setting the stage for further political maneuvering in the years to come and highlighting the BJP's growing prominence in Indian politics. The events of this period were instrumental in establishing the BJP as a viable national party, shaping not only its electoral strategies but also its ideological underpinnings that continue to influence its policies to this day.
Rise of BJP: Rath Yatra and Political Transformations
In 1990, L K Advani initiated the Ram Rath Yatra, a significant political and religious campaign aimed at revitalizing the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, which sought to construct a temple at the disputed site in Ayodhya believed to be the birthplace of Lord Ram. The yatra commenced from Somnath, Gujarat, a site of historical and symbolic importance, and sought to galvanize Hindu volunteers across the nation. The procession not only gained massive public support but also marked a turning point in Indian politics, highlighting the BJP's strategy of intertwining religious sentiments with political mobilization.
The political ramifications of the yatra became evident in the 1991 general elections, where the BJP emerged as the second-largest party in the Lok Sabha, marking a significant rise in their influence compared to their prior standings. Advani secured his position once again as the Member of Parliament from Gandhinagar, which solidified his stature as a key political leader and elevating him to the role of Leader of the Opposition in the parliament. This electoral success was reflective of a broader shift in voter sentiments towards the BJP, which began to resonate with a large segment of the Hindu population.
The events took a dramatic turn in December 1992 when the Babri Masjid was demolished in Ayodhya, an act that led to widespread communal riots across the country. Advani faced several allegations regarding his role in the speech that incited the demolition. He was subsequently charged in the cases related to the riots and the Babri Masjid demolition. However, in a notable verdict on September 30, 2020, a special court under the Central Bureau of Investigation acquitted him, stating that the act was not premeditated and that he was attempting to maintain order rather than inciting violence. This judgment was a significant chapter in the long-standing controversy surrounding the demolition and its consequences.
As the political landscape evolved further, the BJP continued its ascendancy in the 1996 general elections, becoming the largest party in the Lok Sabha. Following this, Advani did not contest the elections due to allegations connected to the Hawala scandal, a significant political controversy at the time. Even though he was acquitted later by the Supreme Court, it was Atal Bihari Vajpayee, a fellow senior leader from the BJP, who took the oath as Prime Minister in May 1996. However, the government faced crucial challenges and was short-lived, collapsing after just thirteen days, marking a tumultuous period in Indian politics that showcased both the aspirations and challenges faced by the nascent BJP-led government.
Political Ascendancy in the Late 1990s
In the general election of 1998, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) emerged victorious, resulting in Atal Bihari Vajpayee assuming the role of Prime Minister in March of the same year. This victory marked a significant political turning point in India as the NDA sought to implement its agenda of economic liberalization and national security. L K Advani, having established a solid political foundation within the party, was elected to the Lok Sabha for his third term and took on the pivotal role of Home Minister. In this capacity, he was tasked with addressing major internal security issues while navigating the complex landscape of Indian politics.
However, Advani's initial stint was relatively short-lived. Just thirteen months into the Vajpayee administration, the government faced a crisis when the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) led by J. Jayalalitha withdrew its support, leading to a collapse of the coalition government. This period of instability necessitated fresh elections, illustrating the challenges of coalition governance in a diverse polity like India. Nevertheless, the resilience of the NDA was evident when it again secured a majority in the 1999 general election. Advani won re-election from his constituency in Gandhinagar, marking his fourth term in the Lok Sabha and reaffirming his significance within the NDA framework.
The Role of Home Minister and Deputy Prime Minister
Upon re-assuming office as Home Minister, Advani's agenda was heavily focused on matters of internal security, particularly in the wake of rising terrorism and communal tensions. His leadership during this period was characterized by a commitment to public safety and law enforcement, alongside significant legislative initiatives aimed at combating terrorism and protecting the rights of the Indian state. Advani's approaches to security were often met with praise from his supporters, who viewed him as a decisive leader capable of handling the nation's challenges.
In 2002, as part of a governmental reshuffle, Advani's political influence and expertise were further recognized with his appointment as Deputy Prime Minister. This elevation not only underscored the trust placed in him by Prime Minister Vajpayee but also reflected his crucial role in shaping national policy during a tumultuous period marked by the Gujarat riots and significant geopolitical challenges. As Deputy Prime Minister, Advani continued to play an instrumental role in shaping the NDA's policies, particularly concerning national security and economic development, thereby further entrenching his legacy within Indian politics during a transformative era. Through these years, Advani not only solidified his position as a senior leader in the BJP but also contributed to laying a foundation for a more robust and proactive governance framework in India.
Leadership and Challenges
In the landscape of Indian politics during the period from 2004 to 2009, L K Advani played a significant role as the Leader of the Opposition following the BJP's setback in the 2004 general elections, where the United Progressive Alliance, led by the Congress Party and spearheaded by Manmohan Singh, secured a majority to form the government. This election marked a pivotal moment for Advani, who won his fifth term in the Lok Sabha amidst the BJP's transition following Atal Bihari Vajpayee's retirement from active politics. With Vajpayee stepping aside after the party's defeat, Advani assumed the mantle of leadership within the BJP, positioning himself as a senior figure determined to navigate the party through challenging times.
Advani's tenure was not without controversies. In June 2005, during a trip to Karachi, he made provocative remarks praising Mohammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan, calling him a "secular" leader. This statement incited considerable backlash within the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the BJP's ideological parent organization, and sparked debates over the definition of secularism in Indian politics. The fallout from this controversy pressured Advani to resign as president of the BJP shortly thereafter, although he managed to retract his resignation within a few days. Concurrently, the comments prompted RSS chief K. S. Sudarshan to suggest that Advani should step down from leadership, reflecting the internal pressures confronting him during that period.
In December 2005, during the silver jubilee celebrations of the BJP in Mumbai, Advani formally stepped down as party president, paving the way for Rajnath Singh to be elected as his successor. This move symbolized a generational shift in leadership as the party sought to revitalize itself in the face of mounting opposition and electoral challenges from the UPA. Advani, ever the strategist, did not shy away from addressing pressing security concerns facing the nation. In March 2006, in the wake of a devastating bomb blast targeting a Hindu shrine in Varanasi, he launched the "Bharat Suraksha Yatra" (Sojourn for National Security). This campaign aimed to draw attention to the perceived inadequacies of the UPA government in addressing the escalating menace of terrorism, reinforcing his commitment to national security and establishing himself as a vigilant guardian of public safety. Through these initiatives, Advani sought to galvanize support for the BJP and reaffirm its stance on significant national issues, even as he contended with internal party dynamics and external criticism.
Advani's Ambitions and Political Journey
In December 2006, L. K. Advani articulated his aspirations to become Prime Minister, identifying himself as the Prime Ministerial candidate for the forthcoming general elections scheduled for May 2009. As the leader of the opposition in a parliamentary democracy, his declaration was significant, marking a pivotal moment in his political career. Although there were varied opinions regarding his candidacy within the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ranks, he received a notable endorsement from former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, which bolstered his position. By May 2007, BJP President Rajnath Singh openly recognized Advani as the party's natural choice for prime minister should they secure victory in the upcoming elections. On December 10, 2007, the BJP’s Parliamentary Board solidified this notion by officially declaring Advani as its prime ministerial candidate for the 2009 general elections.
Despite securing his sixth term in the Lok Sabha, Advani and the BJP faced a disappointing outcome in the 2009 general elections, losing to the Congress party and its coalition partners. This defeat allowed the incumbent Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to retain his position, continuing his government. In the wake of this electoral loss, Advani gracefully transitioned leadership responsibilities by handing over the reins of the opposition to Sushma Swaraj, a move that indicated his commitment to party unity and the next generation of leaders. His political acumen did not waver, as he was subsequently elected as the working chairman of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in 2010, reflecting his enduring influence in Indian politics.
Advani’s political journey took a positive turn in the 2014 general election, where he contested from Gandhinagar and achieved victory for the fifth consecutive time. His continued success underscored his longstanding connection with his constituency and the trust placed in him by the electorate. Following this triumph, he became part of the Marg Darshak Mandal, a vision committee established within the BJP, alongside notable leaders such as Murli Manohar Joshi and Atal Bihari Vajpayee. This committee was meant to provide guidance and strategic direction to the younger generation of BJP leaders, ensuring that the core values and vision of the organization remained intact while navigating the evolving political landscape in India. Through these developments, Advani's legacy as a foundational figure in the BJP continued to shape the party’s trajectory in the years that followed.
Rath Yatras and Their Significance
L K Advani has played a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape of India through a series of Rath Yatras, or processions, that aimed to elevate the visibility of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and promote the Hindutva ideology. Initiated in 1990, these yatras served not only as political rallies but also as crucial instruments for rallying grassroots support and asserting Hindu identity in a diverse country. Advani's first Rath Yatra set the tone for future political mobilization efforts as he embarked on a route that linked historical significance with contemporary political agendas.
The Ram Rath Yatra, which commenced on 25 September 1990 from Somnath in Gujarat and concluded on 30 October 1990 in Ayodhya, became a landmark event in Indian politics. It was intrinsically tied to the contentious Ram Janmabhoomi site, a focal point for Hindu aspirations and political conflict. The yatra garnered massive public support but also faced significant opposition. Advani's arrest in Bihar under orders from the then Prime Minister, V. P. Singh, highlighted the fraught atmosphere surrounding the event and underscored the polarizing effects of his political strategies.
Following the Ram Rath Yatra, Advani organized several additional processions under different themes. The Janadesh Yatra, which began on 11 September 1993, strategically mobilized support against the 80th Amendment and the Representation of People (Amendment) Bill. This yatra saw Advani traverse 14 states and two Union Territories, reinforcing the BJP's message by gathering public support in Bhopal on 25 September. The Swarna Jayanti Rath Yatra between May and July 1997 celebrated India's 50 years of independence while positioning the BJP as a party dedicated to providing good governance in a period of political turbulence.
The political climate continued to change, leading to the Bharat Uday Yatra ahead of the 2004 elections, which aimed to showcase the progress and vision of the BJP. Subsequently, the Bharat Suraksha Yatra from April to May 2006 emphasized urgent issues such as left-wing terrorism, inflation, and corruption, with Advani leading one of the two yatras spanning the country. This campaign underscored the party's commitment to maintaining democracy amid rising challenges.
Culminating the series of yatras, the Jan Chetna Yatra launched on 11 October 2011 addressed public outrage against the UPA government's corruption, promoting a narrative of good governance and clean politics. These yatras, while serving as powerful political tools for the BJP, also reflected wider societal issues and aspirations, ultimately contributing to the party's rise as a dominant force in Indian politics. Through these organized efforts, Advani not only sought to galvanize support for the BJP but also aimed to unify Hindutva ideology across India's diverse electoral landscape.
L K Advani has had a distinguished political career in India, marked by a variety of significant positions over the decades. He began his journey in active politics as the Chairman of the Metropolitan Council in Delhi from 1967 to 1970, showcasing his early commitment to guiding local governance. This role laid the foundation for his subsequent leadership in the Bharatiya Jana Sangh (BJS), where he served as President from 1970 to 1972 and again from 1973 to 1977. Advani's influence in the Rajya Sabha commenced with his first term from 1970 to 1976, highlighting his prominence in the upper house of Parliament. During his critical engagements, he also served as the General Secretary of the Janata Party and a pivotal leader during his time in the Union Cabinet as the Minister of Information and Broadcasting.
Advani's tenure with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) spanned several crucial years, beginning as the General Secretary from 1980 to 1986, during which he solidified the party’s ideological ethos and expanded its influence nationally. His role in the Rajya Sabha continued with multiple terms, affirming his status as a respected figure within Indian politics. Advani was elected as the party president in 1986, a position he held until 1991, which coincided with a significant transformation in Indian political dynamics as the country moved towards economic liberalization.
From 1989 onward, Advani transitioned to the Lok Sabha, serving multiple terms and becoming a key figure as the Leader of the Opposition. His leadership was pivotal during challenging political times, and he was elected to the 10th Lok Sabha in 1991. Carrying a strong presence, Advani continued to shape legislative discourse as the Leader of the Opposition for several terms. His political journey witnessed him being at the helm of the BJP during critical elections, ultimately leading to significant victories in 1998 and 1999, when he took on roles in the Union Cabinet as the Minister of Home Affairs.
Advani's influence culminated in his appointment as the Deputy Prime Minister of India from 2002 to 2004, during which he oversaw key ministries, including Coal and Mines and Personnel, Pensions, and Public Grievances. His strategic political maneuvers marked a transformative era for the BJP, establishing its prominence in national politics. His eventual re-elections to the Lok Sabha, up to the 16th Lok Sabha in 2014, underlined his longevity and resilience in political life. Throughout his illustrious career, Advani has been integral to shaping policies and steering the BJP towards becoming one of the preeminent political forces in India.
State Honours
L. K. Advani, a prominent figure in Indian politics, has received numerous accolades throughout his career that reflect his contributions to the nation. In 2015, he was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, which is recognized as the second-highest civilian honour in India. This prestigious award is indicative of his significant impact on the political landscape of the country and is conferred to individuals in recognition of their exceptional service in various fields, including public service, literature, science, and arts.
In 2024, L. K. Advani was bestowed with the Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian honour in India. This award highlights not only his political achievements but also his role in shaping the ideology and vision of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and his influence in Indian politics. The Bharat Ratna is awarded to individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the nation in any field of human endeavor, and Advani's receipt of this award signifies his enduring legacy in Indian history.
Throughout his political journey, L. K. Advani has held several prominent positions. He served as the Minister of Home Affairs from 1998 to 2004, a period in which he played a vital role in addressing various internal security challenges faced by India. Under his leadership, significant reforms were enacted, focusing on strengthening national security and promoting internal stability. His tenure as Deputy Prime Minister of India from 2002 to 2004 further underscores his influence in governmental operations and policies during a crucial era in Indian politics.
Advani's political career is marked not only by his leadership roles and state honours but also by his commitment to the ideologies of nationalism and cultural identity within India. His vision has inspired many and continues to shape the landscape of Indian politics even after his retirement. As a key architect of the BJP, his legacy remains central to discussions about modern Indian nationalism and governance.