In the early years after independence, writing was an integral part of many Indian political leaders’ lives. From Jawaharlal Nehru to Atal Bihari Vajpayee, their literary pursuits reflected their intellect and vision. Over time, fewer politicians have focused on writing, yet some modern leaders continue to leave a mark in literature, combining political insight with narrative skill. Here’s a look at some famous books by India’s political leaders.
Bestselling Books by Indian Political Leaders
Jawaharlal Nehru
Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first Prime Minister, was not only a visionary leader but also a prolific writer who reflected deeply on India’s history, politics, and global affairs.
Books: The Discovery of India (1946), An Autobiography (1936), Jawaharlal Nehru: Selected Speeches, Letters from a Father to His Daughter (1929), Glimpses of World History (1934), India and the World (1936), India Rediscovered (1954), Indian Economic Thought and Development, India’s Freedom (1962).
Shashi Tharoor
Shashi Tharoor, a seasoned politician and eminent orator, has authored 16 bestselling works since 1981. His writings cover India’s history, culture, politics, foreign policy, and society, blending research with storytelling.
Books: The Great Indian Novel (1989), Bookless in Baghdad (2005), The Elephant, the Tiger, and the Cell Phone (2007), Pax Indica (2012), An Era of Darkness (2016).
Arun Shourie
Economist, journalist, and politician Arun Shourie has written influential works that explore governance, religion, and contemporary issues, earning him a significant readership.
Books: Courts and Their Judgements, Harvesting Our Souls, The World of Fatwas, The State as Charade, Mrs Gandhi’s Second Reign, Does He Know a Mother’s Heart?
Karan Singh
Rajya Sabha MP Karan Singh combines political insight with a love for poetry and philosophy. His books cover Indian history, religion, Kashmir, and socio-political thought.
Books: Towards a New India (1974), Brief Sojourn (1991), Nehru’s Kashmir, Wisdom Tree, One Man’s World (1986).
Kiran Bedi
India’s first female IPS officer, Kiran Bedi, is a political activist and author whose life has inspired several works.
Books: Empowering Women as I See, It’s Always Possible, Kiran Bedi (2006), Yeha Sambhav Hai, Uprising 2011.
K. Natwar Singh
Diplomat-turned-politician K. Natwar Singh has written extensively on Indian diplomacy and history.
Books: Curtain Raisers (1984), Heart to Heart (2003), Walking with Lions, E. M. Forster: A Tribute (1964), Maharaja Suraj Mal (1981), One Life Is Not Enough.
M. J. Akbar
Journalist and Minister of State for External Affairs, M. J. Akbar, has authored several non-fiction works covering history, politics, and journalism.
Books: Nehru: The Making of India, Kashmir: Behind the Vale, Riot After Riot, India: The Siege Within, The Shade of Swords, Blood Brothers, Have Pen, Will Travel (2010).
Jaswant Singh
Former Union Minister Jaswant Singh authored works that explore partition, politics, and diplomacy.
Books: Jinnah: India–Partition–Independence (2009), India at Risk (2013), The Audacity of Opinion (2012), A Call to Honour (2006).
Pranab Mukherjee
Former Indian President Pranab Mukherjee chronicled his long political career and India’s history in his writings.
Books: The Turbulent Years (2016), The Dramatic Decade (2014), Saga of Struggle and Sacrifice (1992), Off the Track (1987).
Atal Bihari Vajpayee
Former Prime Minister Vajpayee combined statesmanship with poetry and literary finesse.
Books: Bindu-Bindu Vicara (1997), Rajaniti ki Rapatili Rahem (1997), Back to Square One (1998), Decisive Days (1999), Sakti Se Santi (1999), Vicara-Bindu (2000), Nayi Chunauti, Naya Avasara (2002).
