Shah Rukh Khan pens tribute to Atal Bihari Vajpayee, says he has lost a part of his childhood

In an emotional tribute to Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Shah Rukh Khan wrote that he had a chance to meet the former PM where they discussed poetry, films, politics and their ailing knees.

Actor Shah Rukh penned a moving tribute to former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee who died on Thursday. He passed away after a prolonged illness at the age of 93 and his death was announced by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) hospital where he was admitted on June 11. His funeral will take place on Friday evening and lakhs are expected to attend.

Shah Rukh Khan penned an emotional tribute for former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

Taking to Twitter, Shah Rukh revealed how Vajpayee influenced his childhood. “My father use to take me for every speech that Mr. Vajpayee made in Delhi when I was growing up. Years on I had the opportunity to meet him and spend lots of time discussing poetry, films, politics and our ailing knees. I also had the privilege of enacting one of his poems for screen. He was fondly addressed as ‘Baapji’ at home. Today the country has lost a Father Figure and a great leader,” he wrote.

He also wrote that he has lost a part of his childhood with the former PM’s death. “Personally I have lost a part of my childhood and growing up memories of learning smiling and of course poetry. I consider myself the luckiest to have had his influence on my life during my formative years. May his soul rest in peace. My deepest condolences to his family and friends. Will miss your smiling face Baapji,” the superstar added.

Personalities from the world of films paid tributes to Vajpayee, including actors Amitabh Bachchan, Priyanka Chopra, Rajinikanth, Vivek Oberoi and Dhanush. Others who sent their condolences include singer Lata Mangeshkar, actors Boman Irani and Randeep Hooda. “I’m saddened to hear the demise of a great statesman Shri.Vajpayee ji. May his soul rest in peace,” wrote Rajinikanth. Amitabh said in a tweet, “An admirer of my Father’s works and vice versa ; gentle nature, strong fiery in his speeches”.

“The nation will always remember (his visionary ideas and contributions),” wrote Priyanka, while Randeep Hooda tweeted a poem. Boman Irani called him “rarest of them all” for finding love and respect across the entire politcal spectrum.

Rang De Basanti actor Siddharth said Vajpayee's integrity was unmatched for. "A gentleman statesman, the greatest, most admirable BJP leader in history. Atal Bihari Vajpayee will be remembered for his love of poetry, his respect for politics and above all for being a terrific prime minister with integrity and grace. I will always be a fan. RIP Sir," Siddharth tweeted.

Quoting the opening lines of Vajpayee's famous poem 'Maut Se Than Gayi' (A tussle with death), filmmaker Hansal Mehta remembered the former political leader as "a fine orator, statesman and a gentle heavyweight". Dia Mirza paid tributes to the BJP stalwart by quoting his thoughts on India's secular fabric. She said Vajpayee was a great role model for her growing up in 1980s and '90s India.