Shashi Tharoor’s Witty Response on Power, Books, and Legacy Goes Viral

A recent video featuring Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has gone viral, once again showcasing his trademark wit and eloquence. In the clip, Tharoor is asked to make a tough choice between giving up his eloquence, his books, or political power. Without hesitation, he quips, “Political power, without a doubt. Because I don’t have any.”

The sharp response, met with laughter, immediately struck a chord with viewers online, many of whom hailed it as “classic Tharoor.” The video, shared widely on social media platform X, is from an interview Tharoor gave in May to Sanam Arora, founder of India UK Achievers. While the exact date of the clip remains unclear, the content has once again won Tharoor admiration for his self-awareness and humility.

In the same conversation, Tharoor offered a more thoughtful reflection on the idea of legacy. “These are all transient things… If you ask me how I’d like to be remembered — I’m already a former minister, one day I’ll be a former MP, but what I’ll never be is a former writer,” he said. The remark, valuing intellectual and literary contributions over political titles, resonated deeply with many of his followers, who praised him for prioritizing substance over status.

Tharoor, known for his extensive literary work and articulate presence in public discourse, has often balanced his political career with his passion for writing and speaking. This video reaffirmed the image many of his admirers hold — of a thinker first, and a politician second.

On the political front, Tharoor recently met with Sibi George, the newly appointed Secretary (West) in the Ministry of External Affairs. The two discussed ways to strengthen India’s ties with Europe amidst global uncertainties. In a post on X, Tharoor wrote, “Received a courtesy call from the newly-appointed Secretary (West) in the MEA, Sibi George, fresh from a successful stint in Japan. Spoke about the need to strengthen our relationship with Europe amid all the global uncertainties.”

India’s relationship with the European Union is built on shared democratic values and covers a wide range of areas, including trade, climate action, digital cooperation, and agriculture — a partnership Tharoor has consistently advocated to deepen.