Tharoor Calls for Peace & Non-Violence in Emotional Tribute to Mahatma Gandhi

Senior Indian parliamentarian, author, and former UN diplomat Dr. Shashi Tharoor paid floral tribute at the bust of Mahatma Gandhi at Tadeo University. He called it a poignant reminder of the enduring power of peace and non-violence. 

Image Source: Dr. Tharoor on X

“Humbled to pay floral tribute… so relevant in our world,” Tharoor posted on social media, expressing gratitude to the university for preserving Gandhi’s legacy.

This act of homage reflected a deep intellectual and emotional connection. Across his vast body of literary and journalism works, Tharoor has returned to Gandhi’s ideals time and again. He has often personified Gandhi to frame discussions on India’s moral leadership, its civilizational ethos, and the soft power that stems from its non-violent philosophical traditions.

In his writings, particularly in "Why I Am a Hindu" and "The Battle of Belonging", Tharoor draws sharp contrasts between India’s inclusive spiritual traditions, as epitomized by Gandhi, and the rising tide of religious polarization. Gandhi, in Tharoor’s writings, is a moral compass for contemporary India, one who stands for dialogue over dominance, sacrifice over self-interest, and truth over expedience.

Even in his works on foreign policy — such as "Pax Indica" and numerous essays in Project Syndicate — Tharoor invokes Gandhian principles to argue that India’s strength lies not only in hard power but in moral authority, persuasive diplomacy, and the power of example. 

His recent analysis of India’s military response in Operation Sindoor emphasized strategic discipline and restraint, echoing Gandhi’s belief in measured action and ethical conduct even in conflict.

Tharoor’s tribute in Colombia is symbolic of this worldview — using the global stage to remind the world of India’s foundational values, and the continued resonance of Gandhi in shaping a peaceful international order. 

Latin America, too, has seen the influence of Gandhian thought in its own struggles for justice and dignity, making Bogotá a fitting setting for such a gesture. As a parliamentarian, Tharoor has consistently urged India to protect its democratic fabric and constitutional morality — values Gandhi lived and died for.