Telangana BJP leaders on Sunday paid rich tributes to former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his eighth death anniversary, hailing his six-year tenure as a “golden era” that laid a strong foundation for India’s development through landmark reforms in highways, telecom and LPG access.

At the BJP state headquarters, state president N. Ramchander Rao, after offering floral tributes to Vajpayee’s portrait, recalled the former PM’s value-based politics, noting how he chose democratic principles over power even when his government fell by a single vote. Rao said Vajpayee’s selfless patriotism and dedication were rightly honoured with the Bharat Ratna, and urged the youth to study his life and walk the path he showed as the true tribute.

Union minister of state Bandi Sanjay in his tribute described Vajpayee as a visionary leader whose six-decade political career was marked by unmatched integrity, statesmanship and oratory skills. Recalling Vajpayee’s landmark achievements — including the 1998 Pokhran nuclear tests and his historic Lahore bus ride in pursuit of peace — Sanjay said his life of selfless dedication continued to inspire leaders and citizens alike.

Separately, BJP MP Etala Rajender and MLA Aleti Maheshwar Reddy and senior leaders paid homage at different events, describing Vajpayee as a poet-philosopher whose historic decisions—such as the Pokhran nuclear tests and Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan—steered India on a progressive path.

Ramchander Rao later attended a Jain community pravachan at the Exhibition Grounds, emphasising the crucial role of spiritual leaders in guiding the youth.