A memorial dedicated to India’s nationalist legacy
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Rashtra Prerna Sthal in Lucknow on Thursday to mark the 101st birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee , a Bharat Ratna awardee and one of India’s most respected statesmen. The memorial has been conceived as a national space to preserve, reflect upon and inspire citizens through the life, ideals and contributions of Vajpayee and other key figures of Indian nationalism.
A landmark in Lucknow
Located in the Vasant Kunj area of Lucknow , the Rashtra Prerna Sthal spreads across nearly 65 acres . The central attraction is a set of towering bronze statues , each rising 65 feet , depicting Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Syama Prasad Mookerjee and Deendayal Upadhyaya. The statues symbolise leadership rooted in nationalism, public service and ideological commitment, and are intended to serve as enduring reminders of their role in shaping modern India’s political thought.
Leadership presence and tributes
Prime Minister Modi paid floral tributes to the three leaders at the memorial. He was joined by Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh , Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel , Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath , deputy chief ministers and several senior leaders. The gathering underscored a collective tribute to values such as selfless service, democratic ideals and nation-building.
Lotus-shaped museum and national journey
Adjacent to the memorial is a lotus-shaped museum , covering around 98,000 square feet . Equipped with immersive digital installations, audio-visual narratives and interactive displays, the museum traces India’s national journey and highlights the contributions of Vajpayee, Mookerjee and Deendayal Upadhyaya. It aims to function as an educational space for students, researchers and visitors.
Vajpayee’s enduring legacy
Earlier, Prime Minister Modi described Atal Bihari Vajpayee as an eloquent parliamentarian, poet and statesman whose ideals of good governance, consensus-building and national unity continue to guide India’s development path.
Important Facts for Exams
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Rashtra Prerna Sthal is located in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
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It features 65-foot-tall bronze statues of three national leaders
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Atal Bihari Vajpayee received the Bharat Ratna in 2015
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The memorial includes a lotus-shaped digital museum
Month: Current Affairs - December 26, 2025
Category: Art & Culture, Modern Indian History