On Thursday, June 19, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended birthday greetings to Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, as he celebrated his 55th birthday. The Prime Minister's message, shared via a post on social media platform X, wished Gandhi a long and healthy life. The gesture reflects a sense of political courtesy, even amidst ideological differences.
Rahul Gandhi, born on June 19, 1970, is a prominent figure in Indian politics, hailing from a lineage deeply rooted in the country's history. He is the son of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi, a current Member of Parliament. His Grandfather Feroze Gandhi, came from a Gujarati Parsi family. Rahul Gandhi's political career carries the weight of his family's legacy, which includes his grandmother, Indira Gandhi, and great-grandfather, Jawaharlal Nehru, both of whom also served as Prime Ministers of India.
Wishes for Rahul Gandhi's birthday poured in from across the political spectrum. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also conveyed his greetings, wishing him good health and a long life. Nitin Gadkari, Minister for Road Transport and Highways, extended heartfelt wishes for a joyful day and a year filled with health and prosperity. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin described his bond with Rahul Gandhi as one "not by blood, but by thought, vision, and purpose," wishing him the strength to lead with courage.
Senior Congress leader Ashok Gehlot lauded Rahul Gandhi's commitment to fighting for the rights of marginalized communities and expressed hope that his efforts to protect the Constitution and promote peace would succeed.
The Indian Youth Congress (IYC) organized a job fair in New Delhi to commemorate Rahul Gandhi's birthday. The event at Talkatora Stadium aimed to connect young job seekers with over 100 companies and multinational corporations, offering more than 5,000 job opportunities across various sectors. The IYC framed the initiative as a means to empower youth and provide them with employment prospects.
Meanwhile, the National Students' Union of India (NSUI) Telangana unit organized a special screening of the film "Phule" in Hyderabad, celebrating Rahul Gandhi's birthday and honoring the values of social justice and equality championed by Mahatma Jyotirao Phule and Kranti Jyoti Savitribai Phule.
Political observers note the significance of leaders across party lines extending birthday wishes, underscoring the importance of civility in political discourse. Despite holding differing ideologies, such gestures contribute to a healthy democracy.