PENGUIN A Life in Diplomacy

I had heard of the book from YouTube interviews given by the author. Despite his obvious charm and deep knowledge, I was not sure what to expect while reading the book, and whether I would even have time to read it. Despite my misgivings, I went ahead and ordered a copy anyway.Imagine my surprise when I read it cover to cover in 2 days flat! The book is a magnum opus, written by a man who had the distinction of serving his country for over five decades since its rebirth as an independent nation in 1947. From my own personal experiences living and working in the UK, France & USA, the author's authentic description of the peoples of these nations brought back many fond memories for me personally. In this day and age of rapid journalism, where it is virtually impossible for even sophisticated readers to separate fact from factoid, the author's account of his experience with world leaders provides an invaluable and authentic reference.His portraits of Indian Prime Ministers Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Vajpayee bring out the greatness of their personalities, while not shying away from their failings. The book informs the reader of the author's impressions of India's neighbors, without falling into the trap of sentimentality. It also provides some poignant personal notes about how the author and his spouse coped with the shattering and tragic loss of their young son, and eventually regained their faith in a higher power by the wise counsel of a great spiritual master of India.This book is absolutely a must read for all those interested in the history of India, and must be made required reading for all entrants to the Indian Foreign Service, IAS, etc.Ambassador Maharaja Krishna Rasgotra has done his country proud, serving with distinction and dignity, and now despite his advanced age at 95, producing a scintillating memoir for the benefit of present and future generations of Indians. I bow before this great son of India.

As if Mr Rasgotra's remarkable career unfolding in front of you is not fascinating enough, the narration is embellished by his dazzling writing style and wit. A nice peek into the early days of the zenith of Indian Foreign Service. The interplay of different luminaries and first hand experience of Mr. Rasgotra equip the reader with a refreshed reverence for the early leaders of independent India. I especially loved the account of his stay in Nepal and the engagement with its rulers, which is often overlooked in India's foreign relations during the Cold War.

A great work by a great man. The material of the book though is fake and reprint 1st copy. Very bad on the side of the seller

This man has been there before India became independent. He saw everything from beginning till his retirement period and has described in a brief manner. Gives us short insight on our PM's personality.

Highly recommended for anyone interested in reading or learning about Diplomacy.Rasgotraji has a great way of laying out both the personal and professional happenings during his career, which is also the synonym of the way India headed to the high tables.