Watch: PM Narendra Modi in tears while praising Ghulam Nabi Azad

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday heaped praised upon Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad for his contributions and became emotional while recollecting a moment from when both of them were chief ministers.

"My worry is that after Ghulam Nabi Azad, whoever will assume his post will not be able to match up to his stature," Prime Minister said during his farewell remarks for the Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha.

Sharing anecdotes about Azad, Prime Minister Modi said, "We stay in government bungalows. While many of us think of bungalows walls and furniture, Ghulam Nabi Azad made a garden in his bungalow which reminds one of the Kashmir Valley. He takes time out to nurture the garden."

The Prime Minister teared up as he recalled an incident from the time when they were both chief ministers.

"Once Gujarati tourists came under attack from terrorists in Kashmir. Eight people lost their lives. Ghulam Nabi Azad called me first. He didn't call me just to inform," said the prime minister as he broke down. 

Fighting his tears, PM Modi said, "He (Azad) too had tears in his eyes. He called me again in the night from the airport and like anyone would express concern for a family member, he expressed that kind of concern." 

Saluting Azad, Prime Minister Modi said, "As a friend, I respect Ghulam Nabi Azad based on incidents like this."