Now Reading: German envoy’s India journey began with Vikram Seth novel
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German envoy’s India journey began with Vikram Seth novel
German Ambassador to India Philipp Ackermann, whose tenure ends in August 2025, has revealed that his fascination with India began after reading Vikram Seth's novel "A Suitable Boy" in the early 2000s…
The Story in Brief
German Ambassador to India Philipp Ackermann, whose tenure ends in August 2025, has revealed that his fascination with India began after reading Vikram Seth's novel "A Suitable Boy" in the early 2000s while posted in New York. Ackermann, who served in New Delhi from 2007 to 2010 before returning as ambassador in 2022, said the 1,300-page book made him want to visit the country. He later met Seth personally and described the author as having a "wonderful way" of capturing India's spirit. During his tenure, Ackermann gained attention for his "Mango Diaries" social media series and for dancing to the song "Naatu Naatu" from the film RRR.
The Indian Opinion
The narrative of a diplomat enchanted by a book is charming but risks oversimplifying India's complex reality. Some western accounts reduce India to a literary fantasy, ignoring its gritty challenges. Ackermann's genuine appreciation is refreshing, yet the real test of understanding lies not in quoting Seth but in navigating India's bureaucratic labyrinths and social contradictions. Can a novel truly prepare one for the chaos and vibrancy of 1.4 billion people? The ambassador's tenure ends in August 2025, leaving that question unanswered.
Source: indiatoday.in
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