They were joined by other dignitaries, including Union ministers, and leaders from different parties in paying homage to Vajpayee at his memorial `Sadaiv Atal` in Delhi

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, JP Nadda, Lok Sabha speaker Om Birla along with other members of the Cabinet also attended the prayer meeting at `Sadaiv Atal`, the memorial of the former prime minister

In his tribute, Modi said on X, "He is remembered by countless people for his unparalleled contribution to nation-building. He devoted his entire life towards ensuring that our fellow citizens lead a better quality of life. We will keep working to fulfil his vision for India"

A widely-respected politician acknowledged as among the finest orators, Vajpayee played a crucial role in drawing allies for his party in the coalition era of the `90s and became the first prime minister from the BJP

His stewardship of the country between 1998-2004 is known for reforms and boost to infrastructure sectors. He passed away in 2018 at the age of 93 years

Born in Gwalior in 1924, Vajpayee was the face of the BJP for decades and was the first non-Congress prime minister to have served a full term in office

Vajpayee served as the Prime Minister of India from May 16, 1996, to June 1, 1996, and again from 19 March 1998 to 22 May 2004

He also served as India`s External Affairs Minister in the cabinet of Prime Minister Moraji Desai from 1977 to 1979

He passed away at AIIMS Hospital in Delhi on August 16, 2018