New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid tribute to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his death anniversary and stated how extraordinary statesman the leader was, blessed with remarkable vision who dedicated his life to the service of the nation.

Vajpayee, the first BJP leader to become prime minister, was born on December 25, 1924, in Gwalior and died August 16, 2018, in New Delhi.

"Remembering Atal Ji on his 'Punya Tithi'. An extraordinary statesman blessed with remarkable vision, he dedicated his life to the service of our nation," Modi said in a post on X.

The prime minister said Vajpayee's words and efforts inspired generations, and his leadership strengthened the country. "His focus on good governance and public welfare will always continue to guide us."

Many other senior politicians and BJP leaders including Home Minister Amit Shah, former Vice President President M Venkaiah Naidu also paid their tributes to the legendary leader.