Humble Wheels, Great Vision: Dr. Manmohan Singh’s Bodyguard Shares a Story

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, known for his simplicity and integrity, passed away on Thursday at AIIMS Delhi. Tributes from around the world highlight his leadership, humility, and unique personality. Among the stories going viral about his life is his deep affection for his Maruti 800, a car he preferred over luxury vehicles.

Asim Arun, who served as Dr. Singh’s bodyguard for three years starting in 2004, shared a heartwarming story on social media. Arun explained that as a part of the Special Protection Group (SPG), his role was to ensure the Prime Minister’s security as part of the Close Protection Team, which never left the PM's side.

In his post, Arun wrote, “Dr. Manmohan Singh was deeply attached to his Maruti 800. Despite having a shiny black BMW at the Prime Minister’s residence, he would often tell me, ‘Asim, I don’t like traveling in this car; my car is the Maruti.’”

Arun recalled how he had to explain to the former PM that the BMW was chosen for its advanced security features. However, Singh would always glance fondly at the Maruti 800 whenever it appeared in the convoy, as if reaffirming his commitment to middle-class values and the common man.

Dr. Manmohan Singh’s life was a testament to simplicity and duty. He remained detached from materialism and personal comfort, focusing instead on his responsibilities to the nation. His humility, tenacity, and dedication to the common man will always be remembered.