India Bids Final Farewell to Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who passed away at 92, was honored with a state funeral in Delhi, highlighting his legacy as a key figure in India's economic transformation.

India mourned the loss of one of its most influential leaders, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, with a full state funeral held in the capital, Delhi. Singh, who passed away on Thursday at the age of 92, served as prime minister from 2004 to 2014 and is celebrated for his pivotal role in liberalizing India's economy.

The ceremony took place on Saturday, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi attending to pay his respects. Modi praised Singh as one of the nation's "most distinguished leaders" and acknowledged his substantial contributions to improving the lives of citizens. As Singh's coffin, draped in flowers and the Indian flag, made its way through the streets, thousands of mourners lined the route, paying homage to the former prime minister.

Singh's eldest daughter lit the funeral pyre at the cremation grounds, which was witnessed by Modi, President Droupadi Murmu, Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar, and members of Singh's Congress Party. Dignitaries from around the world, including the King of Bhutan and Mauritius's foreign minister, also attended to honor Singh.

Following his passing, a week of national mourning was declared, reflecting the profound impact Singh had on India's political and economic landscape. Modi recalled the wisdom and humility of Singh and extended his condolences to the bereaved family. Rahul Gandhi, leader of the Opposition Congress party and present at the service, expressed his deep loss, calling Singh a mentor and guide.

International tributes poured in, including a heartfelt message from U.S. President Joe Biden, who highlighted Singh's role in fostering unprecedented cooperation between the two nations. “He was a true statesman,” Biden stated, reflecting on Singh's strategic insight and kindness.

As prime minister and finance minister, Singh dramatically altered India's economic trajectory, famously stating during his first budget that "no power on Earth can stop an idea whose time has come." His policies led to improved living standards for millions, propelling India towards becoming one of the world's fastest-growing economies.

Singh made history as the first Sikh Prime Minister of India and was renowned for apologizing for the 1984 riots that claimed thousands of Sikh lives. Despite facing corruption allegations during his second term, Singh's legacy endures as a transformative leader in Indian history.