As the world steps into 2025, Indian cinema icon Amitabh Bachchan took a poignant moment to honour the luminaries India lost in 2024.
The megastar shared a heartfelt illustration titled "Our Heroes in Heaven" that depicted Ratan Tata, Shyam Benegal, Zakir Hussain, and Manmohan Singh together, embodying India’s unity in diversity.
Accompanying the powerful artwork, Bachchan wrote, “.. the picture says it all.” His post, which quickly gained traction on social media, served as a reminder of the shared humanity and collective mourning that transcends religious and cultural boundaries.
The illustration highlighted four distinguished figures—a Parsi, a Muslim, a Sikh, and a Hindu—whose contributions to the nation left an indelible mark. Bachchan’s caption read: "A Parsi, a Muslim, a Sikh, and a Hindu passed away in 2024, and the whole nation mourned and remembered them only as Indians!"
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The tribute resonated deeply with fans and netizens, drawing comments such as, “How thoughtful,” and, “One nation, one religion ~ Humanity.”
Among the mourned was former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who passed away on 26 December 2024.
Known as the architect of India’s economic liberalisation, Singh’s tenure as Finance Minister (1991–1996) and later as the 13th Prime Minister (2004–2014) ushered in transformative changes for the nation.
Ratan Tata, revered for his contributions to industry and philanthropy, and Zakir Hussain, celebrated for his exceptional contributions to music, also left a void in their respective fields.
Shyam Benegal, a pioneer of Indian cinema, was remembered for his groundbreaking films that redefined storytelling.
Bachchan’s tribute underscored the essence of India's unity amid diversity. In a nation often defined by its rich mosaic of cultures, his message served as a poignant reminder of the shared values that bind its people together.
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As India remembers its heroes, the sentiment expressed by Amitabh Bachchan resonates profoundly: these individuals, regardless of their backgrounds, will forever be cherished as Indians first.
Source: With inputs from wires