External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has generated buzz with his upcoming book, ‘Why Bharat Matters’, where he delves into Bharat’s pursuit of global prominence and its reliance on civilizational heritage. In an interview with Bharatiya media agency Jaishankar drew parallels between the book’s theme and the epic Ramayan, emphasizing Lord Ram’s coalition-building strategies against Ravana.
Jaishankar, a diplomat-turned-politician, shared that the book is a blend of academic, diplomatic, and political perspectives. He aims to communicate complex ideas to the everyday citizen, using metaphors and references from the Ramayan and Mahabharat. He highlighted the importance of discussing the world on Bharat’s terms, considering its millennia-old civilization.
The minister discussed the book’s last chapter, ‘Why Bharat Matters’, emphasizing that the term ‘Bharat’ carries not just cultural and civilizational significance but also represents confidence and identity. Jaishankar stressed the importance of shaping Bharat’s narrative and offering terms to the world, stating that a developed and self-reliant Bharat is crucial for future progress.
Presenting the first copy to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on December 30, Jaishankar expressed gratitude. He shared a post on social media, stating, “Bharat’s quest to ascend the global hierarchy is an endless journey,” and mentioned the book’s exploration of progress, challenges, and the deep national commitment driving New Bharat.
The book is set to be released in early 2024, with Jaishankar inviting readers to delve into its contents. In his previous book, “The India Way: Strategies for an Uncertain World,” the minister analyzed challenges faced by Bharat and proposed policy responses from the 2008 global financial crisis to the 2020 coronavirus pandemic.
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