Lord Bhikhu Parekh’s remarkable life story spans from a humble village in Gujarat to the esteemed House of Lords in London. Born in Amalsad in 1935, his journey is a testament to sharp intellect, unwavering conviction, and profound humility. He emerged as a leading political thinker of his era, serving as a Professor of Political Philosophy at the University of Westminster and later as President of the Academy of Social Sciences. Lord Parekh has significantly influenced contemporary discussions on multiculturalism, identity, and the very essence of democracy. His distinctive interpretations of Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy have garnered global recognition, leading to India honoring him with the Padma Bhushan in 2007. Despite over six decades in the United Kingdom, his connection to Vadodara remains strong, particularly after his tenure as Vice-Chancellor of Maharaja Sayajirao University in the early 1980s. During a recent visit to Vadodara, Mehul Devkala had the privilege of an extensive conversation with Lord Parekh, delving into a wide array of topics, from geopolitics and immigration to the enduring legacy of Gandhi, the complexities of Indian democracy, and his personal reflections on living a truly good life.
Question: Lord Parekh, it’s been a quarter-century since you joined the House of Lords. Could you share your reflections on this significant journey?
Lord Parekh: It has truly been a pivotal era in British history. I joined the House of Lords in 2000, shortly after Ms. Thatcher’s departure, a time marked by profound changes. Over these twenty-five years – a considerable span in any individual’s life – I’ve observed monumental shifts. Brexit, for example, started as a democratic decision, but one that many came to regret. We also engaged in crucial discussions on assisted suicide and the UK’s relationship with the European Union. It was a period of immense excitement and transformation, both for the nation and for me on a personal level.
Question: Given your extensive writings on multiculturalism and the challenges of coexisting with diverse differences, how do you interpret the recent anti-immigration protests seen across the U.K.?
Lord Parekh: Sadly, multiculturalism has become a point of contention for many. There’s a misconception that it implies absolute freedom for everyone to act as they please – for instance, a Muslim man marrying four wives or a Sikh wearing his turban anywhere without consideration. But that’s fundamentally not what multiculturalism is about; no society could possibly operate under such premises.
Genuine multiculturalism, in my view, allows individuals to uphold their customs, provided these customs are rational, justifiable, and align with the wider values of society. Consider the right to cremation: when Hindus in Britain sought to cremate their deceased instead of burial, there was initial opposition. However, once the profound cultural significance of the practice was understood and it was clear it posed no harm to others, it was accepted. This, to me, embodies the true spirit of multiculturalism: a commitment to rational discourse and mutual comprehension.
Question: Your description resonates deeply with Gandhian philosophy.
Lord Parekh: Absolutely. I frequently refer to Gandhi as the veritable patron saint of multiculturalism. His conviction was that no single culture could possibly encompass the entirety of human potential. He advocated for cultures to engage in constant dialogue, to learn from one another, and to evolve through this exchange. We all possess certain blind spots, often clinging to the belief that our established ways are inherently correct. Gandhi, however, urges us to transcend our own perspectives – to truly see the world through the eyes of others.
Question: In our increasingly polarized global landscape, do you believe Gandhi’s principles continue to offer a viable model for leadership?
Lord Parekh: Without a doubt, they do. Gandhi’s concept of Satyagraha originates from this profound moral tradition. Imagine you treat me unjustly, and I voice my protest, only for you to dismiss my concerns. How then do I persuade you of the truth in my stand? I remain resolute – but I do so peacefully. I steadfastly refuse to inflict harm upon you, yet I persist in my appeal until your conscience is stirred. This is Gandhi’s enduring method, and it remains remarkably pertinent in our modern world.
Question: It is often argued that Gandhi’s successors did not adequately advance his struggle against caste discrimination. What is your perspective on this?
Lord Parekh: Gandhi championed the Dalit cause to the furthest extent possible during his lifetime. By the time of his assassination in 1948, he had already undertaken fasts-unto-death for their rights, resided with Dalits in his ashram, and even adopted a Dalit daughter. Confronting a deeply entrenched, 2,000-year-old system is an immense challenge. While one might ask if he could have done more, I believe that within the political and physical constraints of his era, he achieved a tremendous amount.
Regarding subsequent Gandhians, some diligently continued to advocate for this vital issue, while others did not. However, the implementation of the reservation policy itself played a crucial role in ensuring representation. Even when the initial fervor waned, the institutional mechanisms helped to advance the cause of justice.
Question: Britain recently granted recognition to the state of Palestine. What tangible impact do you anticipate this decision will have?
Lord Parekh: In truth, very little. The devastation in Gaza is truly heartbreaking; an estimated 80% of the city has been rendered uninhabitable. This recognition, coming now, feels like too little, too late. While it provides Palestine with symbolic legitimacy, it doesn’t impose any genuine obligations. Prime Minister Netanyahu, it seems, remains unconcerned because, practically speaking, it alters nothing on the ground.
Question: And how do you view the role of the United States in this ongoing situation?
Lord Parekh: America’s position has been compromised for decades. The last instance it truly stood firm was during the Suez crisis under Eisenhower’s leadership. Since then, it has often feigned helplessness. While many young Americans vocally oppose the unfolding events in Gaza, their government persists in arming and safeguarding Israel. This constitutes a deeply one-sided policy, one that I believe history will ultimately condemn.
Question: Shifting our focus to India, how would you evaluate Prime Minister Modi’s performance during his decade in office?
Lord Parekh: In many respects, he has served as a commendable Prime Minister. He enjoys significant public appeal, garners votes, and projects an image of confident representation for India on the global stage. He possesses an undeniable ability to connect emotionally with people, crafting memorable phrases that resonate, and effectively reinstilling a sense of national pride.
However, can I categorize him as a truly great Prime Minister? Not at this juncture. Persistent issues like poverty and profound inequality remain, with a disproportionately small elite still holding the majority of the nation’s wealth. Corruption, too, continues to be deeply embedded. Many had hoped he would address these challenges with greater decisiveness. So, while he is undoubtedly capable and competent, achieving true greatness demands more – particularly in confronting and resolving India’s fundamental structural deficiencies.
Question: It’s noteworthy that he has never held a press conference, a practice quite uncommon for a leader in a democracy.
Lord Parekh: He absolutely should. While I cannot explain his reasons for not doing so, it is fundamental for any democratic leader to engage directly with the press. Such engagement is an integral component of accountability.
Question: Rahul Gandhi has raised concerns about extensive vote manipulation, though these allegations were dismissed by the Election Commission. What reforms do you believe are crucial to fortify India’s democratic institutions?
Lord Parekh: For democracy to thrive, elections must not merely be fair in practice, but crucially, they must also be perceived as fair. Without this public trust, any government risks losing its legitimacy. It is imperative that processes for candidate selection, verification of criminal records, and financial disclosures are subjected to rigorous scrutiny. Furthermore, political parties, and not solely individual candidates, should be held accountable for certifying honesty. While some advancements have been made in these areas, considerably more effort is needed to genuinely inspire public confidence.
Question: Having lived such a long and inspiring life, what, in your profound wisdom, do you consider to be the essential keys to a life that is both extended and meaningful?
Lord Parekh: I never really harbored a grand, overarching plan. My life simply unfolded, year by year. Yet, through this journey, I’ve come to grasp a few fundamental truths. Firstly, cultivate gratitude. I emerged from a small village, didn’t learn English until I was fifteen, and at every crucial juncture, someone invariably stepped forward to guide me. Serendipity and good fortune truly play an immense role.
Secondly, commit to never engaging in actions that would leave you feeling shame or guilt. A tranquil mind is absolutely paramount – one can only perform effectively when at peace internally.
And thirdly, embrace diligent work and unwavering perseverance. Regardless of the obstacles that arise, you must keep moving forward. When you couple these qualities with inherent decency, you will, I believe, discover true contentment. Ultimately, a truly good life isn’t defined by fame or material wealth; it is forged through quiet determination and the profound peace of a clear conscience.
Mehul Devkala is a respected poet, writer, and filmmaker.