Meghnad Desai, a well-known economist and one of the most respected thinkers connected with India, passed away on 29 July 2025. Though he lived and worked in the United Kingdom for most of his life, his heart, mind, and ideas always remained deeply linked to India. His death is a great loss not just to the world of economics but to everyone who values honesty, intelligence, and independent thinking.
A Journey That Began in India
Meghnad Desai was born in 1940 in Vadodara, Gujarat. He studied economics in Mumbai and then moved to Oxford for further studies. He later became a professor at the famous London School of Economics and taught there for almost 40 years. His understanding of economics was very deep, but what made him special was the way he connected economic ideas to real life and common people.
In the United Kingdom, he was given a seat in the House of Lords, the upper house of British Parliament. But even with such a big position in another country, Desai never lost touch with India. He kept writing, speaking, and guiding people about India’s economy, politics, and future.
A Thinker Who Spoke the Truth
Meghnad Desai was never afraid to speak his mind. He supported India’s economic reforms in the 1990s when many people were unsure about them. At the same time, he warned against growing inequality and the misuse of power by big corporations. He believed that real development means helping all people, not just the rich.
He praised some of India’s leaders when they did well but also pointed out their mistakes when needed. He was not attached to any political party. His only loyalty was to truth and logic. This made his voice powerful and trustworthy.
Making Economics Easy to Understand
One of Meghnad Desai’s biggest contributions was making difficult ideas simple. He wrote books that explained how economies grow, how crises happen, and what leaders should do to protect the poor. His book India Grows at Night became very popular. In it, he explained that India often moves forward when people take charge even if the government is slow. He believed in people’s power and always encouraged young minds to ask questions.
He also opened the Meghnad Desai Academy of Economics in Mumbai. This school trains young Indians to become modern economists who can solve real-world problems.
His Love for India
Even though he lived far from India, Meghnad Desai always kept India in his thoughts and work. He respected the Indian Constitution and often spoke about democracy, justice, and equality. He wanted India to be strong not just in economy but also in values.
He wanted India to lead the world in new ideas. He also spoke many times about how global organisations like the International Monetary Fund and World Bank should give more respect and space to countries like India.
What We Learn from Him
India will remember Meghnad Desai as a man who combined knowledge with courage. He believed in development but also in fairness. He believed in markets but also in public responsibility. He was a teacher, a writer, and a guide.
His life teaches us that being patriotic means thinking deeply, questioning things when needed, and working for everyone’s progress. Meghnad Desai’s ideas will continue to inspire students, teachers, and policymakers for a long time.
He may not be with us anymore, but the light he has left behind will keep guiding India.
Thank you, Lord Meghnad Desai. You will always be remembered.
.jpeg)
.jpeg)
