Dr Manmohan Singh Death: Comedian Vir Das Urges People To Read Former PM's CV Online; WHY?

India lost one of its most revered leaders on Thursday night as former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh passed away at the age of 92. Admitted to Delhi's AIIMS hospital shortly before his demise, Singh's death marks the end of an era defined by humility, intellect, and transformative leadership. The news has left the nation grieving, with tributes pouring in from leaders, celebrities, and citizens.

Dr Manmohan Singh, who served as India's 14th Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, is best remembered as the architect of the country's economic liberalisation in 1991. His reforms as the Finance Minister under Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao laid the groundwork for India's emergence as a global economic powerhouse. Singh's leadership not only steered the nation through a severe balance-of-payments crisis but also fostered growth, innovation, and globalisation.

A scholar of extraordinary intellect, Dr Singh held a doctorate in Economics from Oxford University and had an academic career that included roles such as Chief Economic Advisor, RBI Governor, and Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission. His eight-page resume, available online highlights his achievements that continue to inspire generations. Actor and comedian Vir Das brought attention to this on Friday, urging his followers to read Singh's resume. "Do yourself a favour and Google Dr Manmohan Singh's resume. Read just the education section, then the whole thing. Awe-inspiring stuff," Das posted on Instagram, calling it a tribute to the man whose intellect reshaped modern India.

A Legacy of Leadership

Dr Singh's tenure as Prime Minister was marked by integrity, humility, and a visionary approach to governance. Known for his soft-spoken demeanour and unwavering focus on development, he was respected across political divides. His leadership during critical times, including the global financial crisis of 2008.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his tribute, recalled his interactions with Singh during their overlapping tenures as PM and Gujarat's Chief Minister. "Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji and I interacted regularly when he was PM, and I was the CM of Gujarat. We would have extensive deliberations on various subjects relating to governance. His wisdom and humility were always visible," Modi shared.

A Nation in Mourning

The central government has declared a seven-day national mourning period to honour the legacy of Dr Singh. Flags will fly at half-mast across the country, and no official entertainment will be held during this time. The decision reflects the deep respect and admiration that the nation holds for its former leader.

Singh's passing has evoked an outpouring of grief from all quarters. Leaders, celebrities, and ordinary citizens have taken to social media to express their condolences and share their memories of a man who epitomised the best of public service.

Stellar Achievements

Dr Singh's academic and professional accomplishments are nothing short of extraordinary. Born on September 26, 1932, in what is now Pakistan, Singh's journey from a small village to the halls of global academia and governance is an inspiring story of determination and brilliance. His resume details a remarkable academic trajectory, including degrees from Panjab University and the University of Cambridge, culminating in his doctoral work at Oxford.

His contributions to India's economic reforms are legendary. As the Governor of the Reserve Bank of India, he laid the groundwork for financial stability. Later, as Finance Minister, his bold reforms opened up the Indian economy to global markets, unleashing a new era of prosperity.

As Prime Minister, Singh introduced policies that targeted inclusive growth, rural development, and technological advancement. His government's flagship programmes, such as the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA).

Dr. Singh is survived by his wife, Gursharan Kaur, and their three daughters. His personal life was as dignified as his public one, marked by humility and a deep commitment to family values.