A Gathering of Minds: Ashok Gehlot and Supriya Shrinate Unveil Two New Books

By Akshay G Animesh
New Delhi, May 22, 2026: 
On the solemn occasion of Rajiv Gandhi’s death anniversary, the Rajiv Gandhi Study Circle and Rajiv Gandhi Foundation hosted a grand tribute and book launch ceremony on Thursday. The highlight was the release of two major research works authored by Dr Shashi Kumar Singh — “Rajiv Gandhi: Antarashtriya Rajneeti” (Hindi) and “Rajiv Gandhi: International Relations” (English). 

The books were unveiled by Ashok Gehlot, former Chief Minister of Rajasthan and senior Congress leader, alongside Supriya Shrinate, Chairperson of the Congress Social Media Department. The event was attended by senior Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit, along with parliamentarians, social activists, academicians, and intellectuals. Professors and students from Jawaharlal Nehru University, Delhi University, and Jamia Millia Islamia participated in significant numbers, underscoring the academic importance of the occasion. 

Dr. Shashi Kumar Singh emphasized that Rajiv Gandhi was not merely a Prime Minister but “a dreamer of modern India.” He explained that his works aim to present Rajiv Gandhi’s contributions to foreign policy and diplomacy, South Asian politics, the Non-Aligned Movement and world peace, information technology and Panchayati Raj reforms, and India’s emergence as a modern global identity. According to Dr. Singh, “These books are not just academic texts but research-oriented documents that capture Rajiv Gandhi’s foresight and international outlook.” 

Ashok Gehlot, speaking at the ceremony, said: “Rajiv Gandhi laid the foundation of modern India in the 21st century. His policies in IT, Panchayati Raj, youth participation, and international relations continue to guide the nation.” 

Supriya Shrinate added: “Rajiv Gandhi gave India modernity, technological progress, and global recognition. These books are living documents of his vision.” 

Professor Satish Kumar, the coordinator of the event, described the ceremony as historic, noting: “The massive participation of students and intellectuals proves that Rajiv Gandhi’s ideological legacy remains alive in India’s intellectual society.” 

Dr. Singh’s dual-language works serve as a bridge between academic research and public understanding. They help readers — especially the younger generation — grasp how Rajiv Gandhi’s mission was to modernize India through technology and education, strengthen grassroots democracy via Panchayati Raj, position India as a respected voice in global politics, and advocate peace and cooperation in South Asia. 

By combining historical analysis with contemporary relevance, these books ensure that Rajiv Gandhi’s vision continues to inspire policymakers, scholars, and citizens alike.