Has Former VP Dhankhar Made His First Public Appearance Since Resignation at a Bhopal Book Launch?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Jagdeep Dhankhar returned to public life at a book launch in Bhopal.
- The book titled "Hum aur Yeh Vishwa" offers insights into India's cultural identity.
- The event was well-attended by supporters of the BJP-RSS.
- Dhankhar's humor and oratory skills were on full display.
- The discussion aligns with ongoing debates about decolonizing narratives.
Bhopal, Nov 21 (NationPress) In a notable public appearance following his resignation as India's Vice President in July 2025 due to health issues, Jagdeep Dhankhar attended a book launch event in Bhopal on Thursday, showcasing his signature humor and charm among a supportive RSS-related audience.
The 74-year-old politician, who stepped down on July 21 based on medical recommendations after experiencing a cardiac incident earlier in the year, introduced the book titled "Hum aur Yeh Vishwa" (We and This World), authored by senior Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) official and Sah Sarkaryavah Dr Manmohan Vaidya.
The event, held at the expansive Kushabhau Thakre Convention Centre, attracted a significant crowd of Sangh ideologues, intellectuals, and BJP-RSS supporters, marking Dhankhar's return to the public sphere after a period of silence following his unexpected departure from his constitutional role.
Dhankhar, recognized for his articulate and often lively speeches, commended the book as a deep dive into India's civilizational perspective and its relevance on the global stage today.
"This piece by Dr Vaidya eloquently conveys Bharat's timeless principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam in the current era," he stated, underlining the importance of constructing narratives grounded in indigenous viewpoints.
In a humorous interlude that lightened the mood, Dhankhar addressed the complexities of "narration"—a term frequently encountered in political discussions about shaping public perception.
"Narration mein bahut badi samasya hai (There is a significant issue with narration)," he joked, prompting an immediate wave of laughter and applause from the audience.
Regaining his composure, he added with a smile, "Main apni misaal nahi de raha hoon (I am not giving my own example)," which elicited even more laughter and highlighted his self-deprecating humor, a quality that endeared him during his time as Rajya Sabha chair.
This remark was interpreted by attendees as a subtle reference to the intense "narrative wars" he faced as Vice President, often clashing with opposition members over disturbances in parliament.
Vaidya expressed gratitude to Dhankhar for his attendance, calling it "inspirational for karyakartas".
Despite facing health challenges, including hospitalization earlier this year, Dhankhar appeared lively, engaging warmly with event organizers.
His resignation marked the third mid-term exit of a Vice President in India's history, leading to speculations beyond the official health reasons; however, his appearance on Thursday indicated a graceful reintegration into the ideological circles close to him.
The book delves into India's cultural essence in contrast to Western notions, aligning with ongoing discussions on decolonizing narratives.