New Delhi: Lord Meghnad Desai, a renowned India-born British economist, academic, and member of the UK’s House of Lords, passed away on July 29 at the age of 85 after a brief illness. He is believed to have passed away in a hospital in Gurugram, sources close to the family in London indicated.
Known for his sharp intellect, bold opinions, and deep-rooted connections to both India and the UK, Desai leaves behind a legacy that spans decades of impactful contributions to economics, politics, and public discourse.
Expressing his condolences, Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote on X: “Anguished by the passing away of Shri Meghnad Desai Ji, a distinguished thinker, writer and economist. He always remained connected to India and Indian culture. He also played a role in deepening India-UK ties. Will fondly recall our discussions, where he shared his valuable insights. Condolences to his family and friends. Om Shanti," PM Modi posted on X, along with a photo of the prominent economist.
Born in Vadodara in 1940, Desai completed his PhD in economics from the University of Pennsylvania in 1963. He moved to London two years later, becoming a lecturer at the London School of Economics. He later became a professor and then a professor emeritus there.
Desai was appointed to the House of Lords in 1991, taking the title Lord Desai of St Clement Danes. Initially joining as a Labour peer, he later resigned from the party in 2020 over its handling of antisemitism.
His wife, writer and columnist Lady Kishwar Desai, said, “I am devastated, as he was my rockstar husband, larger than life. Indestructible. I adored him.”
Lord Karan Bilimoria remembered him as “truly iconic,” while the High Commission of India in London praised him as a “thought leader” and a lifelong advocate of India-UK friendship. Among his many cultural contributions, Desai played a key role in the installation of Mahatma Gandhi’s statue at London’s Parliament Square.
