New Delhi: PM Narendra Modi on Sunday congratulated senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Murali Manohar Joshi on his 86th birthday, calling him the 'master of perseverance' on subjects of national interest. PM Modi tweeted from his official Twitter handle, writing, "Greetings to Dr Murli Manohar Joshi Ji on his birthday. Joshi Ji has made an indelible contribution to our country during his long years in politics, Parliament and as a Minister. He is unwavering when it comes to safeguarding national interests and furthering national progress,"

In another tweet, PM Modi has written that "I consider myself fortunate to have got the opportunity to work with Dr Joshi for many years. Like me, several 'karyakartas' learnt so much from him. His role in strengthening the party is extremely valuable. I pray for Dr Joshi's long and healthy life." Born on January 5, 1934 in Uttarakhand's Nainital, Joshi has also served as the BJP's national president till 1991-93.

In his youth, Dr. Joshi joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and participated in cow protection related movements. In 1980, Dr. Joshi supported the establishment of the Bharatiya Janata Party and became its President. Politician and physicist Joshi has also been a professor of Physics at the University of Allahabad in Uttar Pradesh in the past.

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