The thought of grace, or, the form of leaders that India likes

The fulsome and whole-hearted tributes pouring in for Dr Manmohan Singh, who died on 26 December 2024 aged 92, inform us in regards to the man and the chief that the previous prime minister was — however in addition they inform us far more.

For one, they convey to the fore the qualities that we like in all individuals, extra so in these we name leaders. These are the very qualities which have all however disappeared from the treasury benches since Dr Singh concluded his time period as prime minister in 2014.

These qualities embody the thought of grace, the attraction of the understated, a restrained method of talking, an strategy marked by humanity, a definite sense of simplicity and humility, a eager sense of listening and a resolute refusal to make use of phrases that may trigger damage. Add to {that a} sense of hesitancy — if not an outright refusal — to land a punch, and a fast withdrawal of something that may have regarded remotely harsh even when it was the bitter fact, and the attractiveness of Dr. Singh because the chief we want turns into irresistible.

That is with out even contemplating the innumerable bonuses that got here along with his technical data, his huge expertise and his humble background that had him conversant in life’s wrestle from early on.

Have been there no downsides to Dr Singh? After all, there have been. Historical past will cross its judgement, and possibly, as Dr Singh himself steered as soon as, that judgement will probably be “kinder” than those that have accused him of presiding over an institution that, all stated and completed, misplaced its path and ceded energy to the BJP for the primary time.

The person Singh stated could be “disastrous” within the job succeeded him as prime minister.