Asked by a magazine in an interview whether Modi was "standing above the other leaders of the second generation in the BJP" and if he was "heir apparent", Advani replied, "no, I would not say so. Specially when we have string of Chief Ministers who have been performing so well."
To a question as to whether the Gujarat Chief Minister was the most popular leader after him, Advani replied,"why after me? He may be the most popular leader right now."
82-year-old Advani also sought to downplay the "youth card" saying, "I do not attach much importance to the so-called youth card. I don’t think age is a handicap (to being in politics) as long as one is fit. There is experience you bring with age."
