"Without Your Unrelenting Efforts...": JFK's Thank You Note For SM Krishna
NDTV
Before his deep dive into domestic politics, SM Krishna played a key role in a US election as a law student there
Padma Vibhushan SM Krishna served in several top positions at the Centre and the state level, including Governor, External Affairs Minister and Chief Minister, in a political career that spanned half a century. But before his deep dive into domestic politics, he played a key role in a US election as a law student there. And was appreciated by none other than charismatic US President John F Kennedy.
In 1960, Democratic leader Kennedy was running for President. Mr Krishna, then a 28-year-old law student in the US, wrote to Mr Kennedy and offered to campaign for him in areas dominated by Indian Americans. The next year, Mr Kennedy was elected President and did not forget the contribution of the young Indian student.
In a letter dated January 19, 1961, Mr Kennedy wrote to Mr Krishna, "I hope that these few lines will convey my warm appreciation for your efforts during the campaign. I am most grateful for the splendid enthusiasm of my associates. I am only sorry I have not been able to personally thank you for the excellent work which you performed in behalf of the Democratic ticket.
