It was in 1991 when Narendra Modi suggested the 'loh purush' (iron man) L.K. Advani to contest from Gandhinagar in Gujarat after the latter completed his nationwide rath yatra in favour of Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Modi even accompanied Advani when he filed his nomination papers.
Now, the 91-year-old BJP stalwart has been bowed out from the election contest. There was suspense over Advani's candidature as the party wanted to field younger leaders.
BJP chief Amit Shah will now contest from Gandhinagar, which also comprises Naranpura assembly constituency which he had represented as an MLA. Interestingly, only one name was announced in Gujarat thereby sending out a message who will be Modi's political heir at national level.
With Advani being ruled out from first Lok Sabha elections, it would mean an end to his distinguished Lok Sabha career. Seated in the front row, Advani despite his advanced age attended parliament everyday.
According to PRS Legislative, his attendance in the outgoing 16 Lok Sabha was 92 per cent, whereas the national average stood at 80 per cent. However, he participated only in one discussion in the last five years.
During his eight terms in Lok Sabha and four in Rajya Sabha, Advani had represented BJP's point of view, and the original Hindutva poster boy. While, Atal Bihari Vajpayee overshadowed everyone in terms of oratory inside the House, Advani was always strategist at presenting BJP's point of view.
As deputy prime minister and home minister, Advani was instrumental in putting focus on strong action on terror front.
His last big speech was in 2012 when he spoke on the adjournment motion on Assam violence. He termed UPA II as illegitmate which led to huge reactions from treasury benches. He was forced to withdraw his remark as he clarified he reffered to 2008 cash for votes scandal.
Advani had refused to hang up his boots suggesting that he will yet not retire from public life. Whether he will be sent to Rajya Sabha or not, again, Modi and Shah will decide.
