Dr. Shashi Tharoor, a well-known author, intellectual, former UN diplomat, and Member of Parliament from Thiruvananthapuram in India, recently attended The South Asian Literature and Art Festival (SALA 2024) as a keynote speaker. He engaged with the media, answering various questions on different topics.
When asked about his most inspiring book to write, Tharoor mentioned “The Great Indian Novel,” which continues to be popular even after 35 years. He also addressed the issue of sexism and predatory behavior towards women, emphasizing the need for institutional and attitudinal reforms to create a safer environment for women in workplaces.
During the keynote session at SALA 2024, Tharoor discussed his extensive body of work with Dr. Sumit Ganguly, reflecting on his journey as a writer. They touched upon his early fiction works like “The Great Indian Novel” and “Show Business,” as well as his more recent nonfiction books. Tharoor recommended Salman Rushdie’s “Victory City” as a must-read.
In response to a question about improving Indo-Pak relations, Tharoor expressed his initial optimism, which has now been overshadowed by the harsh realities. He emphasized the importance of people-to-people connections in fostering better ties between the two nations.
Discussing threats to secularism and freedom of speech, Tharoor highlighted the role of digital media in providing honest reporting. He also praised the diversity of the current Indian government, noting the importance of maintaining a secular society.
Tharoor shared his views on AI tools like ChatGPT, acknowledging their efficiency in research but emphasizing the irreplaceable creativity of human writers. He also reminisced about the historic 1983 Cricket World Cup finals between India and West Indies, showcasing his passion for sports.
After a lively Q&A session and book signing event, SALA 2024 concluded with Tharoor captivating the audience with his insights and eloquence. His presence at the festival added a thoughtful and compelling dimension to the literary discussions, leaving a lasting impact on attendees.
