NEW DELHI: President Pranab Mukherjee today received the first copy of a book ‘President Pranab Mukherjee – A Statesman’ from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who formally released it at a function held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. Speaking on the occasion, the Prime Minister expressed his deep admiration for the outgoing President. Mr Modi said Mr Mukherjee cared for him like a father would for his son. ‘I’m saying this from the depth of my heart. Like a father caring for his son…,’ the Prime Minister said, turning emotional. Mr Modi also said that during the recent Uttar Pradesh polls, Mr Mukherjee would frequently tell him not to exert himself so much and take care of his body. The President also expressed his deep gratitude for the Prime Minister. He said there has been differences of views, but it never affected their relationship. Mr Mukherjee said that he could claim with confidence that the functioning of the government was never disturbed and never delayed. Earlier, the President expressed his gratitude to news daily ‘The Statesman’ for bringing out a photo essay on the 13th Presidency. Mr Mukherjee said he had agreed to a request for such a book as this would help keep things in record for posterity. He said that he has had a long association with the newspaper, according to a statement from the Rashtrapati Bhavan. The President said that art and creative abilities transcend the boundaries of time and geographical borders. Their appeal is universal. He appreciated the wonderful photos taken by Varun Joshi from ‘The Statesman’ that feature in the photo essay. Mr Mukherjee also expressed his gratitude and deep appreciation to the Prime Minister, who was present on the occasion to release the book. Mr Modi said the photo essay was important from the historical prospective. The photographs in the book immortalise history and also show the humane side of the President – who is an “inspiration” to many, he added. The book covers Mr Mukherjee’s Presidency and documents related to his various roles, including those as a humane first citizen, a thinking leader, a patron of educational institutions and also as the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, the statement added. (UNI)
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