Bhulai Bhai, revered as the oldest BJP worker and a two-time Bharatiya Jana Sangh MLA, passed away at the age of 111 in Uttar Pradesh's Kushinagar district. His passing marks the end of a significant chapter in the BJP’s history, as he embodied a legacy rooted in unwavering dedication to the party and the values espoused by its predecessor, the Jana Sangh. Known for his deep loyalty and integrity, Bhulai Bhai’s political journey began after he was inspired by Jana Sangh stalwart Deendayal Upadhyaya, whose philosophy of *Ekatma Manav Darshan* (Integral Humanism) shaped the course of Bhulai Bhai’s public life.
Elected as MLA from the Naurangia constituency in 1974, Bhulai Bhai served two terms, earning immense respect for his simplicity and incorruptible nature. Even after the founding of the BJP in 1980, he continued to actively work for the party and contributed to its growth and grassroots mobilization, remaining a loyal party worker throughout his long life. His steadfast commitment to the party and his principles made him a beloved figure among BJP members, symbolizing a connection to the party’s early days and the ideals on which it was built.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Bhulai Bhai came into the national spotlight when Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally enquired about his well-being. His dedication was further acknowledged at a BJP workers' conference in Lucknow, where Union Home Minister Amit Shah honored him by coming down from the stage to greet him personally, reflecting the profound respect he held among the BJP leadership.
In 2022, Bhulai Bhai attended the swearing-in ceremony of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath as a special guest, underscoring the strong bond he shared with the party and its leaders. In recent years, CM Yogi Adityanath also checked on his health, reaching out to Bhulai Bhai as a mark of respect for his long-standing service to the party and his principles. Despite age-related health issues, Bhulai Bhai remained actively engaged and interested in the political landscape, even as he received care at home under oxygen support.
His final journey ended after he was rushed to a hospital in Kaptanganj when his health took a turn for the worse. Bhulai Bhai’s passing has left a void among party members and supporters who remember him not only as a party worker but as a figure of loyalty and commitment whose life was dedicated to upholding the values of honesty and service. His contributions to Indian politics, particularly in Uttar Pradesh, and his legacy of service will continue to inspire future generations of political workers and leaders.
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