Prez remembers Giani Zail Singh on his 100th birth anniversary

President Pranab Mukherjee today paid rich tributes to former President Giani Zail Singh on his 100th birth anniversary.
Mukherjee described the former President as a true 'Giani' (one who is full of knowledge). The President also recalled Giani Zail Singh's deep understanding of Indian history, culture and civilisation, a press release issued today by Rashtarapati Bhavan said.
He said Giani Zail Singh was a great soul and his rise is an evidence of the opportunities Indian democracy provides to every citizen irrespective of the status.
"The great heights that Giani Zail Singh rose to, from a humble and poor background bears testimony to this great feature of Indian democracy," Mukherjee said.

The President remembered his services to the nation as a freedom fighter, Chief Minister of Punjab, Home Minister of the Union of India and President of India. He also recalled his role as a Parliamentarian.
A documentary on the life of Giani Zail Singh and a book 'Fragrant Recollections' (Collection of memoirs and tributes on Giani Zail Singh) were released by Vice President Hamid Ansari and Gurdeep Kaur, daughter of Giani Zail Singh respectively and their first copies were presented to the President.