Shashi Tharoor
Biography
Shashi Tharoor (born 1956) is an acclaimed Indian politician, writer, and former international diplomat. He has served as a Member of Parliament for Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, since 2009, and previously as Minister of State for External Affairs and Minister of State for Human Resource Development in the Indian government. Before his political career, Tharoor enjoyed a distinguished tenure at the United Nations for nearly three decades, rising to the position of Under-Secretary-General for Communications and Public Information. He was a prominent candidate for UN Secretary-General in 2006. A prolific author, Tharoor has penned over twenty books, encompassing fiction, non-fiction, and essays, often focusing on India's history, politics, culture, and the complexities of post-colonialism. He is widely recognized for his eloquent prose, sharp intellect, and extensive vocabulary.
Selected Thoughts
«India is not, as people keep calling it, an underdeveloped country, but rather, in the context of its history and cultural heritage, a highly developed one in an advanced state of decay.»
«What we want is not an Indian version of English, but an English version of India.»
«India is not just a landmass; it is an idea, a philosophy, a way of life.»
Writing Style
Shashi Tharoor's writing style is characterized by its erudition, eloquence, and intellectual rigor. He employs a sophisticated vocabulary and nuanced argumentation, crafting prose that is both analytical and engaging. His works seamlessly blend historical narrative with contemporary political commentary, often imbued with wit, satire, and a deeply persuasive tone. Whether tackling complex geopolitical issues or fictionalizing historical events, Tharoor's style maintains a distinctive scholarly yet accessible quality, reflecting his background as a diplomat and a public intellectual.