Manmohan Singh, the former Prime Minister of India and an architect of the country’s economic reforms, was a figure of unparalleled simplicity, as remembered by UP minister Asim Arun, who once served as his bodyguard.
In a heartfelt tribute shared on X (formerly Twitter), Arun, a former IPS officer and chief of the Special Protection Group (SPG), reflected on Singh’s deep attachment to his humble Maruti 800, even as the official convoy included high-security BMWs. Singh passed away on Thursday night at the age of 92 at AIIMS Delhi.
“I served as Dr. Manmohan Singh’s bodyguard for nearly three years starting in 2004,” Arun wrote. “As part of the SPG, I was his closest security detail and shadow. Despite being the Prime Minister, he often expressed a longing for his Maruti 800, parked modestly behind the sleek BMWs in the PM House.” Singh would often tell Arun, “This Maruti is my car. These luxury vehicles are not mine.”
Arun recalled how Singh embodied the ethos of a middle-class Indian, committed to simplicity and authenticity. Even as the nation’s leader, Singh’s attachment to his Maruti 800 reflected his humility and connection to his roots.
Singh, known for his calm demeanor and intellect, first rose to prominence as the architect of India’s economic liberalization in 1991. Later, he served as Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, earning respect for his quiet dedication to governance and reforms.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tribute, describing Singh’s passing as a “great loss to the nation.” In a video message, Modi highlighted Singh’s journey from displacement during Partition to becoming one of India’s most respected scholars and leaders.
Manmohan Singh’s life and legacy continue to serve as an inspiration, demonstrating how humility, intellect, and dedication can elevate an individual to remarkable heights.
