A non-conformist in the political cauldron

Mani Shankar Aiyar's memoir is an account of his unique journey, his chequered career, friendships, and the pursuit of ideals that led to his unorthodox path

Memoirs of a Maverick: The First Fifty Years (1941-1991)

Author: Mani Shankar Aiyar

Publisher: Juggernaut

Price: Rs 899

Mani Shankar Aiyar has been a unique phenomenon in Indian diplomacy and politics. He has frequently been in the news for all the wrong reasons — an ill-advised quip, a harsh repartee, an offhand remark seen as a barb. These have made him “controversial”, a kiss of death in India where conformity is respected and mediocrity encouraged.

Very few know of his scintillating mind, the outpouring of fresh ideas, the attention to detail in every endeavour, the extraordinary administrative and organisational skills, and a limitless