Shashi Tharoor is making headlines once again, sparking a significant ideological debate within his own party. Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, who always remains in the news for his sour-sweet relationship with his own party, has made another comment on social media, becoming a topic of discussion. This time again, it started with a post on X by a user, and he commented with his views.
In fact, a user on social media X wrote a long thread, mentioning two streams in the Congress and comparing Tharoor with the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi.
These comments describe Tharoor as belonging to the 1990s wave of P.B. Narasimha Rao and Dr Manmohan Singh, who emphasised urban, institutional, and reform. On the other end. Rahul is said to be trying to reinvent the Congress as a rural, grievance-based mass party. Although Rahul himself is one of the most elite and isolated figures in Indian politics. Born into a thriving family and without any experience or organisational depth, he has no credibility in symbolic rural politics.
Interestingly, Tharoor commented on this comparison and analysis, writing, “Thank you for this thoughtful analysis. There has always been more than one trend within the party. Your point is correct and reflects a particular perspective on the current reality.” This discussion is going viral on social media.
Shashi Tharoor: A Portrait of the Quintessential Public Intellectual
Dr Shashi Tharoor stands as a remarkable figure in India’s public life, effortlessly blending the worlds of international diplomacy, domestic politics, and literary excellence. Born in 1956, his journey is characterised by extraordinary intellectual rigour and a fluency in both Indian and global narratives.
He is more than just a Member of Parliament; he is a communicator whose style—marked by an expansive vocabulary and compelling argumentation—has made him a unique force in contemporary discourse. His life trajectory, from an early start at the United Nations to a celebrated second act in politics and authorship, provides a rich tapestry of professional dedication and cultural contribution.
The Foundation of Excellence: Shashi Tharoor Education and Age
The intellectual groundwork for Shashi Tharoor was laid early and decisively. His academic record is a testament to his sharp intellect, beginning with his graduation from St. Stephen’s College in Delhi. However, it was his commitment to higher studies in the United States that truly distinguished him.
The cornerstone of his professional life is the education he obtained at the prestigious Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University. He secured his M.A., a Master of Arts in Law and Diplomacy, and most notably, his PhD in International Relations and Affairs from this institution. What makes this accomplishment particularly remarkable is the timeline. He completed his doctorate requirements at the young age of 22. As a result, he established a lasting record at that time. This achievement showcases his dedication and talent. This rapid academic ascension prepared him for a high-flying career on the global stage. Ultimately leading him into the senior echelons of the United Nations.
At this point, considering his birth year of 1956, Shashi Tharoor’s age is 69 years, placing him in the senior league of political and literary commentators.
Weaving History and Insight: The Books of Shashi Tharoor
The written word is arguably the arena where Shashi Tharoor has left his most indelible mark. His role as an author is not ancillary to his political career. Rather, it is a vital expression of his political and historical consciousness. The sheer diversity and volume of the books of Shashi Tharoor—encompassing over twenty-three published works—underscore his prolific output.
In the realm of fiction, works like The Great Indian Novel offer a clever, post-modern reimagining of the ancient epic Mahabharata through the lens of modern Indian political history.
His non-fiction, however, has often generated the most spirited public debate. His influential book, *An Era of Darkness: The British Empire in India* (also known as *Inglorious Empire*), provides a compelling critique. Furthermore, it is based on evidence that highlights the detrimental effects of British rule. Specifically, the book addresses the negative economic, social, and cultural impacts on India. Thus, it serves as an important resource for understanding this historical period. This book, stemming from a viral speech, successfully galvanised a global conversation about colonial reparations and historical accountability, earning him the Sahitya Akademi Award in 2019.
Further works, including Why I Am a Hindu and Pax Indica, demonstrate his skill in expressing complex ideas about religion, culture, and India’s role in global politics. These contributions firmly establish him as a literary bridge between the East and West. Additionally, they connect the past and present. Overall, his mastery in articulating these themes showcases his significant impact on literature and thought.
Additionally, they connect the past and present. Overall, his mastery in articulating these themes showcases his significant impact on literature and thought.
Personal Life: Family, Wife, and Son
Behind the diplomat and the politician is a family man whose personal life has unfolded under the public gaze. Shashi Tharoor has been married three times, each relationship contributing to his personal journey.
His first marriage to Tilottama Mukherji resulted in his two sons, Ishaan Tharoor and Kanishk Tharoor. Both young men have inherited their father’s literary flair. Ishaan Tharoor is a globally recognised journalist focusing on international affairs. Whereas Kanishk Tharoor is an acclaimed writer of fiction and non-fiction. This continuity of intellectual pursuit across generations is noteworthy.
His final marriage was to Sunanda Pushkar in 2010. Tragically, it ended with her death in 2014. This event became a significant part of his public narrative. He has consistently upheld his professional commitments throughout his personal life. He balances his roles as a father and a public figure. Moreover, he manages to meet the demands of his high-profile career.