New Delhi [India], October 27 (ANI): Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday paid tribute to former President K R Narayanan on his birth anniversary, hailing him as a 'visionary statesman' who rose from humble beginnings to break social barriers and champion the cause of the underprivileged.

In a post on X, Kharge said Narayanan was a distinguished scholar and diplomat who inspired generations through perseverance and intellect.

'Remembering the contribution of Former President of India, K. R. Narayanan, on his birth anniversary. A visionary statesman, distinguished scholar, and diplomat, he transcended humble beginnings, breaking social barriers and inspiring generations through his perseverance and intellect. A staunch advocate for equality, he championed the cause of the underprivileged, tirelessly working to uphold justice and empower marginalised communities,' he posted on X.

The Congress leader further said Narayanan was a staunch advocate for equality who tirelessly worked to uphold justice and empower marginalised communities.

'As President, he exercised his Constitutional discretion with integrity and foresight, reinforcing accountability and safeguarding the Democratic spirit enshrined in the Constitution,' he added in X post.

Narayanan, born on October 27, 1920, was the tenth President of India and had served as ambassador to Japan, the United Kingdom, Thailand, Turkey, the People's Republic of China, and the United States of America.

Narayanan's academic prowess was evident from an early age, culminating in his receiving an Honours degree in English Literature from the University of Travancore. This was a precursor to a scholarship-funded study period at the prestigious University of London, followed by a stint at the London School of Economics, where he studied political science, as stated on the website of the President of India.

Elected as the ninth Vice President in 1992, Narayanan went on to become the President in 1997.

He became the first person from Kerala to hold the post and the first Dalit to ascend to this high office. His presidency is remembered for his meticulous adherence to constitutional proprieties and his maintenance of the dignity and independence of the office, according to the website of the President of India.

Narayanan died on November 9, 2005, at the age of 85. (ANI)