PM Modi pays tribute to ‘organisational genius’ Ashok Singhal on his birth centenary

On his birth centenary, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to former Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) international working president Ashok Singhal on September 28, 2026. Modi described Singhal as an "organisational genius" and recalled his pivotal role in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement. Born on September 27, 1926, Singhal passed away on November 17, 2015.

Modi, who had numerous interactions with Singhal, wrote in an OpEd that he considered it a privilege to have met him and received his affection. One of the earliest moments was when Modi received a handwritten letter from Singhal in 1981, during Modi's time as a young Karyakarta. Modi also noted Singhal's dedication to various projects that often required long and difficult travels to remote areas. His mind was constantly focused on how to serve those on the margins of society.

Singhal hailed from a prosperous family; his father, Shri Mahavir Ji, was a distinguished administrator, and his brothers included a police officer, a Member of Parliament, and the Chief Secretary of Tripura. However, Singhal's calling was the revival of Bharat and bringing glory to Maa Bharti's children. Growing up in Prayagraj, Singhal would sit by the Sangam river, studying its people and cultivating an understanding of India's cultural ethos.

Two instances highlighted Singhal's organisational genius: hosting the Vishwa Hindu Parishad's 100th anniversary conference in the U.S. in 1993 and the World Hindu Conference in Trinidad and Tobago in 2000. Singhal's role in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement was also emphasized, particularly his address at the Boat Club Rally in 1991 and his determination to ensure the Ram Mandir's construction in Ayodhya.