Birthday tributes poured in for former Congress president Sonia Gandhi as she turned 78 on Monday, with leaders from across the political spectrum lauding her exemplary contributions to public life.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was among the first to extend his warm wishes praying for her long life and good health.
In a post on X, Modi wrote, “Greetings to Smt. Sonia Gandhi Ji on her birthday. I pray for her long life and good health.”
Sonia Gandhi, who turned 78 on Monday, has stepped back from active politics in recent years due to health reasons.
She continues to serve as a Rajya Sabha MP and as the Chairperson of the Congress Parliamentary Party.
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge expressed his warm wishes to the senior Congress leader, calling her "a true champion of the rights of the marginalised."
He highlighted her role in inspiring millions of people with her tireless efforts and immense courage. “Her contribution to public life has inspired millions,” Kharge said, adding, “I wish her a long and healthy life.”
Sonia Gandhi, the longest-serving Congress president, has stepped back from active politics in recent years due to health reasons.
Her son, Rahul Gandhi, and daughter, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, have since taken up key roles in the party. However, Sonia Gandhi remains a Rajya Sabha member and continues to serve as the Chairperson of the Congress Parliamentary Party.
Congress General Secretary (Organisation) K C Venugopal also extended his heartfelt birthday greetings to Sonia Gandhi. He hailed her as “an iconic leader of our times” whose contributions to India’s growth have left an indelible mark.
“Her unparalleled contribution to India, in the face of the immense sacrifices she made, is an inspiration for millions across the world. Her guidance, during the years of good governance under PM Dr. Manmohan Singh ji, played a pivotal part in India's post-independence journey towards growth,” Venugopal said in a post on X.
He also acknowledged her unwavering commitment to public service, despite facing continuous attacks. “Her support and vision continue to be great sources of strength for our party,” Venugopal added.
The Congress party, through its official X handle, praised Gandhi's leadership and her dedication to the founding principles of India and the Congress Party.
“Championing women’s empowerment, social justice, and inclusive growth, her vision led to the upliftment of millions of marginalised people and the strengthening of India’s welfare state,” the Congress said.
The party also highlighted her pivotal role in landmark reforms such as MGNREGA, the Right to Food, the Right to Education, and the Right to Information, which have reshaped India’s political, social, and economic landscape.
“Through personal sacrifice and deep-rooted commitment to India’s democratic values, she has exemplified selflessness, grace and dignity in public life,” the Congress said.
Several other Congress leaders joined in wishing Sonia Gandhi on her special day, praising her contributions to public life.