BJP all India General Secretary & Former Union Minister Shri Vijay Goel today presented a set of photographs to Former Prime Minister of India Hon’ble Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The highlight of these photographs was a picture of Atalji which was captured by Mr. Goel on the occasion of Holi on 22nd March, 2008.

It may be recalled that in the month of March an exhibition of photographs shot by Mr. Goel was inaugurated by Vice President of India Shri Hamid Ansari. This particular photograph of Atalji was also displayed in the exhibition and received widespread appreciation. The exhibition of Mr. Goel’s photographs was viewed by the hundreds of people.

A keen photographer, Vijay Goel is fascinated by India’s architectural heritage, especially its havelis and forts.

Following his passion, he’s been taking up such projects from time to time. From the restoration of Gahlib’s house in Ballimaran, a coffee-table book on the havelis of Chandni Chowk and now conservation of his 300-years old ancestral house (Haveli) at his village – Anandpur it’s been a continuing journey and a labour of love.

For his latest project of restoration of haveli, he sought help from the students of Delhi Heritage institute, who took it as a challenge and went about their task with a professional zeal.

Goel’s supervision of the job had an interesting spin-off. As the Heritage students got busy with their job, he decided to utilize this break to explore his village and its old-world charm. He sauntered out with his camera and began clicking the images of the rural life.

What emerged is a fine collection of snapshots, distinctive and refreshing in their subject matter and aesthetic appeal.

He then used these photographs on covers of the Diwali greetings he had sent to his friends and relatives who not only appreciated the effort but also encouraged him to continue the newly developed hobby. Photography, Mr. Geol felt, is the best way to express one’s feelings. “I am continuing this hobby as much as I can spare time from the hectic political life, “he added.

Mr. Goel is a Former Minister in Prime Minister Office and a three-time MP from Delhi. His other prominent social work is banning the lottery, development of Red Fort Lawns, Village museum at Haryana and Toy Bank (Collection of old Toys).