He no doubt had a versatile personality, a trade unionist, a freedom fighter, a Minister, a Governor, the Vice-President and above all the President … - V. V. Giri

I am conscious of my shortcomings, but I have always tried as an honest worker to a do a job to the best of my ability and judgment.

It is the power to combine that labour has the most effective safeguard against exploitation and the only lasting security against inhuman conditions.

India has been more than fortunate in her sons and daughters. You will always be associated with your great warmth and humanity, your heartiness and winning informality, and your habit of zestful dedication –qualities which have endured you to one and all and won for you universal regard and goodwill. You will be remembered always as People’s President. So, indeed were you hailed, signifying thereby your life-long closeness to the common man and particularly your association with the working class in our country, when in an unprecedented and mist keenly-fought election you romped home to victory. And, in the midst of all the pomp and regalia associated with your office, you have remained a great comer at heart.