Shashi Tharoor Supports Unveiling of Rajagopalachari Bust

Shashi Tharoor, a member of the Indian Parliament representing the Congress party, has expressed his approval of the recent unveiling of a bust of C Rajagopalachari at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Tharoor highlighted that the values upheld by Rajagopalachari, who served as the first Indian Governor-General of India before the nation became a republic, are still relevant today but not widely followed.

The bust was formally unveiled by President Droupadi Murmu on a day marked by the Rajaji Utsav, an event that celebrates the legacy of Rajagopalachari. In a post shared on the social media platform X, Tharoor indicated he was “truly pleased” to see Rajagopalachari's contributions acknowledged in such a prominent manner. Tharoor recounted his historical support for Rajagopalachari's Swatantra Party during his university years, affirming that the leader's ideals—melding liberal economics and social justice without communal bias—continue to influence his own principles.

Rajagopalachari is remembered for his advocacy of protecting individual liberties, an emphasis that Tharoor believes remains significant in the current political landscape. He remarked that the need for limiting state interference in the lives of citizens is as important today as it has ever been.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also praised the unveiling of the bust, portraying it as part of a broader movement to phase out colonial symbols from public life. He described Rajagopalachari as a “towering scholar, freedom fighter, thinker, and administrator,” underscoring his significant role in nation-building and intellectual integrity.

The newly installed bust replaces that of British architect Edwin Lutyens, known for designing key landmarks including Rashtrapati Bhavan. In previous remarks, Modi stated India's commitment to commemorating leaders rooted in the country's own heritage and culture, a sentiment echoed in the recent celebrations at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

In addition to the bust unveiling, the celebrations include an exhibition showcasing Rajagopalachari's life and achievements, which will be open until March 1.

This event is not the first instance where Shashi Tharoor has publicly acknowledged initiatives affiliated with the Modi administration. He has previously shown support for India's military actions as well as the country's diplomatic stance on international conflicts, demonstrating a willingness to endorse government efforts that he believes serve national interests.