Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited senior BJP leader LK Advani at his residence on Monday to greet him on his 94th birthday.

He was accompanied by Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Home Minister Amit Shah.

Modi posted his greetings on Twitter, saying: "Birthday greetings to respected Advani Ji. Praying for his long and healthy life. The nation remains indebted to him for his numerous efforts towards empowering people and enhancing our cultural pride. He is also widely respected for his scholarly pursuits and rich intellect".

As a senior BJP leader, Advani has been the force behind the party's rise in national politics and giving the BJP its nationalistic identity. He was also the country's deputy prime minister under prime minister Atal Bihari Vajyapee from 2002 till 2004.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also tweeted, saying: "Advani is counted among the most respected leaders of India, whose scholarship, foresight, intellectual ability and diplomacy are acknowledged by all. May God keep them healthy and live long".

Modi posted photographs of his meeting with Advani in another tweet.

Called on Advani Ji and wished him on his birthday. pic.twitter.com/LBKY9tdyOx

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 8, 2021

BJP President JP Nadda also lauded Advani for his role in building the party and also the country. He said: "Advani Ji took BJP to the masses and played an important role in the development of the country. Advani Ji is an inspiration to crores of party workers. I pray to God for your long life and healthy life".

Advani was born in Karachi, Pakistan, and began his political career as a volunteer with the RSS. He was awarded the Padma Vibhushan in 2015.