New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday extended birthday wishes to Congress leader and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, praying for his good health and long life.

The gesture came as Congress leaders and party workers across the country celebrated Gandhi's 56th birthday with greetings and messages highlighting his political journey and leadership.

PM Modi extends birthday greetings

In a post on X, Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his wishes to Rahul Gandhi on his birthday.

"Best wishes to the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Shri Rahul Gandhi Ji on his birthday. Praying for his good health and long life," PM Modi wrote.

The message drew attention as it came amid ongoing political differences between the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress, reflecting a moment of political courtesy between leaders from rival parties.

Congress workers marked the occasion with celebrations at party offices and public events across several states.

In New Delhi, posters carrying birthday wishes for Rahul Gandhi were displayed outside the Congress headquarters, Indira Bhawan. Party workers gathered to celebrate the occasion and extend their greetings to the senior Congress leader.

The celebrations highlighted Gandhi's continued prominence within the party and his role as one of the leading opposition voices in national politics.

Leaders across Congress send wishes

Several Congress leaders took to social media to congratulate Rahul Gandhi on his birthday.

Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy praised Gandhi's commitment to democratic values and social justice.

"Warm birthday wishes to our ever-inspiring leader Shri Rahul Gandhi Ji. His steadfast commitment to democratic values, social justice, and the welfare of the people continues to inspire many. Wishing him good health, happiness and strength as he continues his service to the nation and its people," Revanth Reddy wrote.

The Indian National Congress also posted an extensive message describing Gandhi as a leader who continues to speak against injustice and inequality.

"In a world where most choose to stay silent, you have consistently chosen to speak up for what you believe is right. Your relentless fight against injustice, inequality and the misuse of power has inspired millions," the party said in its message.

The post further described Gandhi as "Gen Z's voice" and praised his emphasis on compassion, empathy and inclusive politics.

Rahul Gandhi's political journey

Born on June 19, 1970, at Holy Family Hospital in New Delhi, Rahul Gandhi is the son of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and former Congress president Sonia Gandhi.

He entered active politics in 2004 and represented Uttar Pradesh's Amethi constituency in the Lok Sabha for 15 years. He later represented Kerala's Wayanad constituency between 2019 and 2024.

Following the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Gandhi was elected from Rae Bareli in Uttar Pradesh and currently serves as the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha.

He also served as president of the Indian National Congress from December 2017 to July 2019.

Opposition's key voice in Parliament

As Leader of Opposition, Rahul Gandhi has emerged as one of the most prominent critics of the BJP-led government, frequently raising issues related to unemployment, social justice, economic policy and democratic institutions.

His Bharat Jodo Yatra and Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra campaigns helped strengthen his public outreach and played a significant role in shaping the Congress party's political messaging in recent years.

As he turns 56, birthday greetings from political allies, party workers and even political opponents reflected his continued relevance in India's evolving political landscape.

(With ANI inputs)