| He served as the UPA-1 and UPA-2 governments' chief troubleshooter. |
| During his political career, he held key ministries like Finance and Defence. |
| Known as the 'other PM' in political circles. |
| Swam across a hilly stream daily to attend school in his childhood. |
| His childhood nickname 'Poltu' was inspired by his marching-like style on the way to school. |
| As a child, he divided kids into 'British' and 'Indians' groups for pretend fight games. |
| His father was a freedom fighter during the Indian Independence Movement. |
| Before politics, he worked as a clerk and taught political science. |
| Mentored Sonia Gandhi as she entered active politics. |
| Considered the de facto number two in the Manmohan Singh government despite not becoming Prime Minister. |
| Was a dedicated worker, often putting in 18-hour workdays. |
| Enthusiastic non-vegetarian who especially enjoyed fish curry. |
| Had a vast collection of over 500 pipes as an avid pipe smoker. |
| Rejected 31 mercy petitions during his presidency, including those of Afzal Guru and Ajmal Kasab. |
| The only Finance Minister to present a budget seven times in the parliament. |
