Shashi Tharoor, Indian politician, Indian Minister of External Affairs

Shashi Tharoor (IPA: [ʃɐʃi t̪ɐɾuːr]; pronounced shuh-SHEE thǝ-ROOR), born on March 9, 1956, is a name synonymous with sharp intellect, eloquent communication, and a multifaceted career that spans international diplomacy, Indian politics, and prolific authorship. An acclaimed public intellectual, Tharoor has carved a unique niche, currently serving as a Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha, representing Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, a position he has held with distinction since 2009. His journey is a testament to an extraordinary blend of global experience and a deep commitment to India, marked by significant contributions across various prestigious platforms.

A Journey of Early Brilliance and Global Diplomacy

Early Life and Academic Achievements

Born in London, UK, Shashi Tharoor spent his formative years in India, cultivating a strong connection to his homeland even as his academic path began to take him across the world. His intellect shone brightly from an early age, culminating in his graduation from St. Stephen's College, Delhi, in 1975. Tharoor then embarked on an international academic pursuit, earning his doctorate in International Relations and Affairs from the prestigious Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, Tufts University, in 1978. Remarkably, at just 22 years old, he achieved the distinction of being the youngest person at that time to receive such an honor from the Fletcher School, foreshadowing a career defined by rapid ascent and significant impact.

A Distinguished Career at the United Nations

Following his academic triumphs, Tharoor embarked on a nearly three-decade-long career with the United Nations, a period from 1978 to 2007 that saw him rise through the ranks to become a highly respected international official. His dedication and diplomatic acumen led to his appointment as the Under-Secretary General for Communications and Public Information in 2001, a pivotal role in shaping the UN's global message. His extensive experience across various UN postings provided him with an unparalleled understanding of international relations, global challenges, and multilateral diplomacy. The pinnacle of his UN career arrived in 2006 when he emerged as a leading candidate for the post of Secretary-General of the United Nations. Although he ultimately finished second to Ban Ki-moon, his impressive campaign and the respect he garnered globally underscored his profound capabilities as a world-class diplomat. He announced his retirement from the UN shortly after this significant bid.

From International Diplomat to Indian Politician

Entering the Fray of Indian Politics

After a distinguished international career, Shashi Tharoor returned to India and transitioned seamlessly into the dynamic world of national politics. In 2009, he joined the Indian National Congress, bringing his global perspective and articulate voice to the domestic arena. His political debut was marked by immediate success, as he successfully contested and won the Lok Sabha (the lower house of India's Parliament) elections from the constituency of Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. This victory not only marked the beginning of his parliamentary career but also showcased his ability to connect with the Indian electorate, proving that his international stature resonated deeply at home.

Ministerial Roles and Parliamentary Leadership

During the tenure of the Congress-led UPA Government (2004–2014), Tharoor served in key ministerial capacities, further solidifying his role as a significant political figure. He held the portfolio of Minister of State for External Affairs from 2009 to 2010, leveraging his diplomatic background to represent India on the global stage. Later, from 2012 to 2014, he served as Minister of Human Resource Development, contributing to policy-making in education and skill development. Beyond his ministerial duties, Tharoor has also played crucial roles in parliamentary oversight. He currently serves as the Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Information Technology and heads the All India Professionals Congress. Prior to this, from 2014 to 2019, he chaired the influential Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs, a natural fit for his expertise, where he played a vital role in shaping India's foreign policy discourse.

A Prolific Author and Acclaimed Public Intellectual

A Distinguished Literary Voice

Beyond his roles in diplomacy and politics, Shashi Tharoor is equally celebrated as a prolific and insightful author. Since 1981, he has penned an impressive 23 works, spanning both fiction and non-fiction. His literary output primarily revolves around India, exploring its rich history, vibrant culture, diverse cinema, complex politics, evolving society, and intricate foreign policy, among other related themes. His unique perspective, combining a deep understanding of India with an international outlook, has made his books essential reading for anyone seeking to understand the subcontinent. His ability to articulate complex ideas with clarity and engaging prose has earned him a prominent place in contemporary Indian literature.

The Impact of "An Era of Darkness" and Other Works

One of his most impactful works, "An Era of Darkness: The British Empire in India" (published as "Inglorious Empire: What the British Did to India" in the UK), gained widespread acclaim for its incisive and compelling critique of British colonial rule. This powerful non-fiction work earned him the prestigious Sahitya Academy Award in 2019, one of India's highest literary honors, in the English language category. His books, known for their meticulous research and provocative arguments, often spark national and international dialogue. In addition to his full-length books, Tharoor has authored hundreds of columns and articles for some of the world's most renowned publications, including The New York Times, The Washington Post, TIME, and Newsweek, where he also served as a contributing editor for two years. He has also been a regular columnist for prominent Indian dailies such as The Times of India, The Indian Express, and The Hindu, and continues to write an internationally syndicated monthly column for Project Syndicate, ensuring his voice resonates across diverse global audiences.

FAQs About Shashi Tharoor

Who is Shashi Tharoor?
Shashi Tharoor is an eminent Indian public figure known for his roles as a former international diplomat with the United Nations, a prominent politician currently serving as a Member of Parliament for Thiruvananthapuram, and an acclaimed writer and public intellectual.
When was Shashi Tharoor born?
Shashi Tharoor was born on March 9, 1956.
What is Shashi Tharoor famous for?
He is famous for his eloquent communication skills, his extensive diplomatic career at the UN where he rose to Under-Secretary General, his active political career in India (serving as MP and Minister), and his prolific writing, including books like "An Era of Darkness" for which he won the Sahitya Academy Award.
What political party does Shashi Tharoor belong to?
Shashi Tharoor is a member of the Indian National Congress party.
Did Shashi Tharoor work for the United Nations?
Yes, he had a distinguished career at the United Nations from 1978 to 2007, serving as Under-Secretary General for Communications and Public Information and running for Secretary-General in 2006.
Which book won Shashi Tharoor an award?
His non-fiction book "An Era of Darkness: The British Empire in India" (also known as "Inglorious Empire") won him the Sahitya Academy Award in 2019.
Where is Shashi Tharoor an MP from?
He is a Member of Parliament (MP) in the Lok Sabha, representing the constituency of Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala, India.