Bangabandhu in league of Mahatma Gandhi, Indira Gandhi

DHAKA, Aug 29 (BSS)- Siddhartha Shankar Ray, grandson of Deshbandhu Chitta Ranajan (CR) Das and one of the prominent politicians of the subcontinent, termed Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman as one of the greatest leaders of the subcontinent in the league of Mahatma Gandhi and Indira Gandhi.

"He always put the interests of the people above all," said Ray, a former chief minister of West Bengal (1972-1977) and a cabinet member of Indira Gandhi's government.

The elderly politician, who was in his late 80s when he recollected his memories of Sheikh Mujib, said he always used to give priority to the legitimate rights of the common masses. "He is a leader who loved his people most."

In return, the people reposed great faith and trust in him which was a rare instance in world history, he said.

Terming Bangabandhu as a farsighted person, Ray said Sheikh Mujib believed in a democratic socialist society for ensuring economic emancipation of his people.

"I respect him for his ideals and principles," he said, adding, "I felt so proud as a Bengali when Sheikh Mujib used to deliver his speeches in Bengali at international forums."

Siddhartha also recalled the memories of Bangabandhu's addresses and said "He (Bangabandhu) had a wonderful voice that could mesmerize everyone."

Ray died in 2010 but his memories of Bangabandhu are archived by the Bangladesh Foundation for Development Research (BFDR).