Pride Prejudice & Punditry: THE ESSENTIAL by Shashi Tharoor is an impressive collection of his best writings, both fiction and non-fiction. This book brings together the best works of one of India’s greatest living authors, featuring several pieces that have never been published before. The book is divided into ten sections, each focusing on a different subject, such as Indian politics, poetry, cricket, religion, diplomacy, humour, and personal reflections. It also includes some of his most famous speeches, essays on the art of writing, and even unpublished works written specially for this collection. In Pride Prejudice & Punditry, by Shashi Tharoor takes readers on a journey through India’s history, culture, and politics. His essays on figures like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and Rabindranath Tagore stand out. While some essays are critical yet balanced, others, like the one on Tagore, are filled with admiration and deep appreciation. Personal anecdotes, such as how Tharoor read Tagore’s love poems to his late wife, add an emotional touch to the narrative.
The book Pride Prejudice & Punditry also explores Tharoor’s love for cricket, humour, and his experiences as a writer. His essays on Indian cricket are filled with enthusiasm and passion, while his humorous pieces provide a light-hearted break from serious topics. His reflections on the Hindu faith are insightful and thought-provoking, offering readers a new perspective on religion and spirituality.
Tharoor’s writing in Pride Prejudice & Punditry is engaging and full of depth. His mastery of language introduces readers to new vocabulary while keeping the pace fast and the content captivating. Each section offers a unique theme, making the book diverse and dynamic. Whether it is his take on Indian politics, international relations, or personal memories, Tharoor brings his signature wit and intellect to every page.
Pride Prejudice & Punditry is a fascinating read that blends fiction, non-fiction, and poetry effortlessly. For those new to Tharoor’s work, it serves as a great introduction to his writing. For his longtime readers, it offers fresh material along with timeless classics. This well-researched, vibrant collection is a must-read for anyone who enjoys exploring a variety of topics with an expert guide.
Availability & Details of Pride Prejudice & Punditry
Pride Prejudice & Punditry: The Essential by Shashi Tharoor, published by Aleph Book Company on November 1, 2021, in English language, is a comprehensive hardcover spanning 600 pages. The book is available in both Kindle and hardcover formats, priced at ₹663 and ₹697 respectively. Opting for the Kindle edition offers convenience, allowing readers to carry this extensive collection anywhere digitally. The hardcover version, on the other hand, makes for a valuable addition to your bookshelf, perfect for those who love to own physical copies of insightful works. You can purchase the book from leading online retailers like Amazon, Goodreads and Flipkart, as well as at major bookstores across India.
Themes Explored in Pride Prejudice & Punditry
- A Collection Beyond History: Shashi Tharoor’s Pride Prejudice & Punditry is a compilation of 75 articles, stories, poems, columns, and excerpts from his previous works, both fiction and non-fiction. Most of these pieces have been expanded or updated to give readers a fresh perspective. These are not just snippets of Indian history or random reflections; they are powerful narratives that combine storytelling with sharp analysis. Tharoor’s ability to examine multiple sides of an issue and present them in a direct, clear, and engaging manner makes this book more than just a casual read. Each piece offers something unique, blending historical facts with compelling prose, making Pride Prejudice & Punditry an insightful and thought-provoking collection.
- Poetry and Emotion: Tharoor’s poetry in Pride Prejudice & Punditry is a delightful surprise. His poems tackle themes of suffering, resilience, and love with vivid imagery. For instance, he writes about a neglected child, drought-stricken lands, and the despair of refugees, ultimately capturing the human condition with haunting lines like:
“Think of nothing.
Then you will be able
To sleep.”
These verses highlight his versatility as a writer and provide a deeply emotional connection for readers. The inclusion of love poems further adds a tender, reflective layer to the collection, making it a multidimensional reading experience. - Historical Insights and Political Analysis: Pride Prejudice & Punditry goes beyond political commentary. For example, Tharoor sheds light on the word “Harijan,” coined by Gandhi, and how Ambedkar rejected it in favour of terms like “Dalit” and “Bahishkrit,” forcing India to confront the reality of caste discrimination. Tharoor’s commentary on Modi’s use of historical figures like Gandhi and Sardar Patel to bolster his own image reveals the intricate intersections of politics and identity. While he does not shy away from criticizing the ruling party, he also stresses the need for dialogue and mutual respect across political divides, reminding us that democracy thrives on compromise and discussion.
- The Wire and Political Balance: In Pride Prejudice & Punditry, Tharoor addresses criticisms from media outlets like The Wire, which often misinterpret his balanced views as either complete praise or harsh criticism of political figures. He stresses the importance of allowing space for mutual respect and dialogue across political divides, emphasizing that democracy thrives on debate and compromise. His practical and fair perspective is one of the book’s highlights.
- Sonia Gandhi’s National Identity: One of the most engaging discussions in Pride Prejudice & Punditry revolves around Sonia Gandhi’s eligibility to lead India. Tharoor references historical figures like Annie Besant and Allan Octavian Hume, who contributed to India’s political landscape despite their foreign origins, to emphasize that Indianness is not defined by birth. This well-reasoned argument highlights Tharoor’s ability to bring historical context into contemporary debates, making his views compelling and relevant.
- Hinduism vs Hindutva: Tharoor’s article on Hinduism and Hindutva in Pride Prejudice & Punditry is one of the standout pieces. He contrasts the inclusiveness of Hinduism with the exclusionary nature of Hindutva, drawing parallels with global political strategies. His observation that Gandhi’s ideals have been replaced by mere symbols, such as his glasses, is both poignant and sharp. The comparison to Milan Kundera’s description of political erasure adds depth to this discussion. This article alone can drive readers to explore his book Why I Am a Hindu, as it captures the complex intersections of faith, politics, and identity.
- Cricket and Diplomacy: An entire section in Pride Prejudice & Punditry is devoted to cricket, reflecting Tharoor’s love for the sport. He debunks the idea of cricket as a substitute for diplomacy, especially in the context of India-Pakistan relations. According to him, “cricket will follow successful diplomacy, not precede it.” This practical yet passionate take on cricket shows Tharoor’s knack for blending humour and insight, making the reader think while enjoying his writing.
- A Broad Spectrum of Topics: From essays on Nehru, Ambedkar, and Gandhi to reflections on leadership and creativity, Pride Prejudice & Punditry covers a wide range of subjects. Tharoor’s exploration of themes like heritage, humour, politics, and faith ensures that the book appeals to a diverse audience. His pieces are not limited to dissecting political personalities but extend to cultural, social, and literary realms. The inclusion of fiction and poetry alongside essays adds depth, making the collection both refreshing and rewarding.
- Humour and Wit: Tharoor’s wit shines in sections like “You Cannot Be Serious,” where he humorously critiques Indian politics and the absurdities within it. His sharp, ironic observations add a light-hearted charm to Pride Prejudice & Punditry, making serious subjects more approachable. Whether he is poking fun at political ironies or weaving clever analogies, his humour keeps readers engaged. Tharoor’s ability to make readers smile while thinking deeply adds charm to the book
- A Book That Demands Re-Reading: Pride Prejudice & Punditry is not just a book to be read once. It demands multiple readings to fully appreciate its depth and range. While some of Tharoor’s views might invite debate, his skillful writing ensures that the book remains a compelling and enlightening read. The variety of topics, coupled with his incisive analysis and engaging prose, makes this collection a must-read for anyone interested in understanding India and its complexities.
- Heritage, Culture, and Seduction: The book is not just about politics and history—it also explores India’s rich heritage and culture. Tharoor discusses topics ranging from French wine to seduction and heritage, blending intellectual depth with light-hearted storytelling. These essays add variety to Pride Prejudice & Punditry, making it a well-rounded collection that appeals to readers with diverse interests.
- Modi and Me: In Pride Prejudice & Punditry, Shashi Tharoor dedicates a section to his personal and political observations on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Tharoor’s writing is balanced, offering both critique and acknowledgment of Modi’s political strategies, leadership style, and impact on India. He delves into Modi’s “shrewd domestic political calculations” and his efforts to draw inspiration from prominent Gujarati figures like Gandhi and Patel. This section offers readers an opportunity to understand the complexities of Indian politics through Tharoor’s sharp yet balanced lens. It also raises important questions about governance, nationalism, and the interplay of personality in politics.
- You Cannot Be Serious: This section of Pride Prejudice & Punditry provides a light-hearted take on various everyday matters. Tharoor showcases his wit and humour, making readers laugh while subtly reflecting on some of life’s absurdities. Whether it is cultural quirks or unexpected moments, this section offers a refreshing break from the heavier themes in the book, reminding readers of the joys of seeing life with a touch of humour.
- Fragments of an Autobiography: In this deeply personal section of Pride Prejudice & Punditry, Tharoor writes about his parents and his connection to his Kerala heritage. The essays are poignant and evocative, offering glimpses into his family life and the values that shaped him. This section adds an emotional depth to the book, making it relatable and heartfelt for readers who appreciate autobiographical reflections.
- The Spoken Word: This section of Pride Prejudice & Punditry compiles some of Tharoor’s most famous speeches. His eloquence and mastery of language shine as he addresses critical topics ranging from politics to culture. These speeches are powerful and thought-provoking, reflecting Tharoor’s ability to inspire and engage his audience, whether in India or on global platforms.
- The Writerly Life: In this section of Pride Prejudice & Punditry, Tharoor reflects on the art of writing and the lives of writers. He shares his thoughts on creativity, inspiration, and the challenges of being a writer. This section is a treat for readers who are passionate about literature and enjoy insights into the writer’s journey.
Why to Buy and Read This Book
Pride, Prejudice & Punditry is a must-read for those who admire Shashi Tharoor’s literary brilliance. This book gives readers a glimpse into his thoughts, perspectives, and understanding of modern India. Through its engaging and thought-provoking content, it captures the essence of Tharoor’s intellectual depth and sharp commentary on a variety of subjects.
Dr. Shashi Tharoor is a powerhouse in the world of literature, and Pride, Prejudice & Punditry reflects his exceptional ability to analyse and comment on politics, religion, culture, and writing. With his signature wit and eloquence, Tharoor delivers insights that are as compelling as they are diverse. If you have enjoyed his previous works, this book will be a valuable addition to your collection.
What makes Pride, Prejudice & Punditry stand out is its unique blend of topics, carefully organized into sections. It covers everything from Tharoor’s political ideologies to his reflections on religion, culture, and cricket. The book also features discussions on great leaders who shaped India, making it a captivating read for anyone interested in history and contemporary issues. This collection is like a gateway into Tharoor’s mind, offering readers a chance to explore the subjects that inspire and fascinate him.
The beauty of Pride, Prejudice & Punditry lies in its impeccable organization and clarity. Like all Tharoor’s works, it is well-articulated and structured in a way that keeps the reader engaged from start to finish. This book is truly one of a kind and deserves a place on your bookshelf if you enjoy insightful and impactful writing.
Final Thoughts
Pride, Prejudice & Punditry is not just a book; it is a vibrant collection of ideas, perspectives, and reflections that showcase Dr. Shashi Tharoor’s brilliance as a writer, thinker, and orator. With its diverse themes ranging from politics and religion to cricket and personal anecdotes, the book offers something for every reader. Tharoor’s sharp analysis, eloquent style, and fearless commentary make this collection an intellectual and emotional journey through the many facets of India and beyond.
This book is a testament to Tharoor’s ability to dissect complex issues with clarity while also engaging readers with humour, depth, and literary flair. Whether you are a fan of his political insights, his historical analyses, or his poetic musings, Pride, Prejudice & Punditry provides a compelling blend of all these elements. It leaves readers with a deeper understanding of contemporary India and a profound appreciation for the nuances of history, culture, and governance. For anyone who enjoys thought-provoking essays and exceptional writing, Pride, Prejudice & Punditry is a treasure trove of knowledge and reflection. It is a book that invites re-reading, discussion, and debate, ensuring its relevance for years to come.
