With the demise of Chandra Shekharji, one of the tallest figures in our public life is no more. We fondly remember him as a Young Turk and the courageous stands he used to take. In fact, he was known for his courage of conviction and frank talk. He always had a charisma about him and had his own stamp and identity. His Bharat Yatra had a big impact on all of us who belonged to that generation. He was someone who knew how to connect with people and take up their causes.

As a Parliamentarian, his merit was recognised by all: he was one of the best parliamentarians. There was a certain warmth about his personality — one felt comforted when you were around him and, therefore, he had a large circle of friends. He was always loyal to his friends and stood up for them whenever the occasion came — inside and outside Parliament.

Many a time, he had been alone in Parliament and outside, but he didn’t care — numbers didn’t make an impression on him. There was always a legend about him, even though he is no more with us.

I had very close personal contact with him since University. He was senior to me and was a friend of my elder brother. Since those days I have had a very high regard towards him as I felt towards my elder brother.

I had differences with him, but for several years now, had come close to him. I also consulted him. He fought his disease valiantly, as valiantly as he faced life.

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