Film composer Ilaiyaraaja, legendary athlete PT Usha and film maker V Vijayendra Prasad were nominated to the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday. Philanthropist Veerendra Heggade was also named as a new member of the Upper House of Parliament.
Soon after, Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued congratulatory tweets for the eminent citizens, calling them an inspiration for every Indian.
He said that while Usha's accomplishments in sports are widely known, her work to mentor budding athletes over the last several years is equally commendable.
“The remarkable PT Usha Ji is an inspiration for every Indian. Her accomplishments in sports are widely known but equally commendable is her work to mentor budding athletes over the last several years. Congratulations to her on being nominated to the Rajya Sabha,” Modi wrote on Twitter.
Usha, who spoke to HT from her home in north Kerala, said she was humbled by the government's move and thanked the PM and President for the same. "I dedicate this to sports lovers of the country,” the athlete said over phone from her house in north Kerala.
For Ilaiyaraaja, the PM said his creative genius has enthralled people across generations. “His works beautifully reflect many emotions. What is equally inspiring is his life journey- he rose from a humble background and achieved so much. Glad that he has been nominated to the Rajya Sabha,” Modi wrote.
{{/usCountry}}For Ilaiyaraaja, the PM said his creative genius has enthralled people across generations. “His works beautifully reflect many emotions. What is equally inspiring is his life journey- he rose from a humble background and achieved so much. Glad that he has been nominated to the Rajya Sabha,” Modi wrote.
{{/usCountry}}The PM said Prasad has been associated with the creative world for decades. “His works showcase India's glorious culture and have made a mark globally. Congratulations to him for being nominated to the Rajya Sabha,” he said.
“Shri Veerendra Heggade Ji is at the forefront of outstanding community service. I have had the opportunity to pray at the Dharmasthala Temple and also witness the great work he is doing in health, education and culture. He will certainly enrich Parliamentary proceedings,” he further wrote.