New Delhi: Veteran BJP leader Murli Manohar Joshi visited the residence of his long-time party colleague LK Advani in Delhi to extend congratulations on Advani being awarded the prestigious Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honor.

Expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside towering leaders like LK Advani, Joshi stated, "I met Lal Krishna Advani ji to congratulate him for being conferred with Bharat Ratna. People across the country are extremely happy with this decision. I am fortunate to get the opportunity to work with Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Nanaji Deshmukh, and Lal Krishna Advani."

LK Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi played pivotal roles in the BJP's growth in the 1990s and in establishing the party's government at the Centre.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Saturday, announced the Bharat Ratna for LK Advani, acknowledging his exemplary parliamentary contributions and rich insights. PM Modi highlighted Advani as one of the most respected statesmen, emphasizing his monumental contribution to India's development. He praised Advani's journey from grassroots work to serving as Deputy Prime Minister.

Responding to the announcement, the 96-year-old LK Advani humbly accepted the Bharat Ratna, considering it an honor for his lifelong ideals. "With utmost humility and gratitude, I accept the Bharat Ratna that has been conferred on me today. It is not only an honor for me as a person but also for the ideals and principles that I strove to serve throughout my life to the best of my ability," he stated.

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