Shashi Tharoor, the acclaimed writer, politician, and orator, is well known for his eloquent speeches and sharp takes on colonial history, particularly the British Empire’s legacy in India. However, when he’s not engaging in political debate or writing compelling essays on diplomacy, nationalism, and India’s global role, Tharoor immerses himself in books across a wide range of genres.
A self-professed bibliophile, Tharoor’s reading habits reveal a man who values knowledge, diverse perspectives, and storytelling. His personal library spans thousands of volumes, including works on international relations, biographies, history, and literature. It’s not surprising, considering that before his career in politics, Tharoor served in the United Nations and authored several books, both fiction and non-fiction.
Among the books that find a special place on his shelf are classics of Indian and world literature. He has spoken admiringly of authors like R.K. Narayan and Salman Rushdie for their narrative mastery and ability to capture Indian society’s nuances. Tharoor’s literary appreciation also extends to global writers such as George Orwell, Gabriel García Márquez, and Kazuo Ishiguro. These authors, known for their exploration of identity, conflict, and human psychology, align with the intellectual curiosity Tharoor often brings to his public work.
In recent interviews and social media posts, Tharoor has mentioned enjoying books on philosophy and global affairs, including the works of Amartya Sen, Yuval Noah Harari, and Fareed Zakaria. These choices underscore his interest in understanding the world’s changing geopolitical dynamics and the philosophical underpinnings of governance, freedom, and justice.
He is also known to keep up with contemporary Indian non-fiction. Works on Indian politics, society, and development regularly feature in his reading list, reflecting his role as a public thinker deeply engaged with current affairs. This habit allows him to maintain a nuanced, informed stance on national issues beyond mere political rhetoric.
Fiction is another realm Tharoor enjoys, especially historical novels and literary fiction that weave complex characters with real-world contexts. His own fiction, such as The Great Indian Novel, showcases his flair for reimagining epics through a political lens. It’s only natural that his reading interests would include similarly layered narratives.
Reading, for Tharoor, is not just a pastime but a continuous journey of reflection and learning. He often shares book recommendations and reviews through his social media channels, encouraging followers to read critically and widely. He also uses literature as a tool for cultural diplomacy and dialogue, often referencing books in his speeches to add depth and texture.
In a fast-paced world dominated by soundbites and short attention spans, Shashi Tharoor’s deep engagement with books is a reminder of the value of thoughtful reading. Whether he’s dissecting colonialism or attending Parliament, the ideas from his reading often echo in his speeches and writings, enriching public discourse with substance and nuance.
