London: Senior Congress leader and Member of Parliament Dr. Shashi Tharoor delivered a series of public lectures in the United Kingdom on India's civilizational legacy, constitutional evolution, and democratic future, as part of events organised by O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU).

Tharoor addressed gatherings at University College and Somerville College in Oxford, and at the Honourable Society of the Inner Temple in London. The lectures explored India's historical foundations, the role of its Constitution in shaping modern governance, and the challenges ahead as the country approaches 100 years of independence in 2047.

At University College, Oxford, Tharoor spoke on “An Immemorial Civilization: Lessons from India, Lessons for India”, highlighting the country's traditions of religious tolerance, non-violence, and social justice. He called for drawing ethical strength from India's past to confront contemporary inequities and promote inclusion.

“Indian civilization, at its most luminous moments, has fought against orthodoxy, casteism and exclusion,” he said, adding that India must be reimagined through its civilizational values to ensure justice for the marginalized.

At Somerville College, his lecture, titled “Indian Constitution at 75: Protecting Rights, Expanding Freedoms & Empowering Citizens”, traced the journey of the Constitution and its foundational role in India's democratic development. He underscored the need to defend the rights enshrined in the Constitution.

JGU Vice Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) C. Raj Kumar, who introduced Tharoor, stressed the role of universities in global democratic discourse. He said Tharoor's remarks reaffirmed the need to preserve democratic values across borders.

At the Inner Temple in London, Tharoor delivered another lecture on “India at 2047: The Future of the World's Largest Democracy”. He emphasized the need for institutional integrity and public vigilance in preserving constitutional norms.

JGU Chancellor and MP Naveen Jindal also addressed the gathering, outlining five core values—education, economy, entrepreneurship, energy, and equality—as guiding principles for India's future.

JGU also released its 2025 Sustainable Development Report during the Oxford event, presented by Prof. Padmanabha Ramanujam. Academic responses were shared by Prof. (Dr.) Shailendra Raj Mehta.