External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar sparked discussion on India’s diplomatic approach when he posed a thought-provoking question at the Pune Literature Festival: Does India need more than one S Jaishankar? While answering it himself, he drew a striking parallel with Hanuman, highlighting adaptability in foreign policy.
Jaishankar Explains the Hanuman Analogy
Speaking at the festival, Jaishankar referred to Hanuman’s ability to change form and scale depending on the situation. He used the analogy to explain how India’s foreign policy must remain flexible rather than rigid.
According to him, diplomacy requires adjusting tone, strategy, and engagement based on the country, issue, and moment. Therefore, a single fixed approach cannot serve India’s diverse global interests.
Jaishankar clarified that India does not need multiple foreign ministers or conflicting strategies. Instead, it needs one clear policy executed in different ways.
Moreover, he emphasized that effective diplomacy depends on understanding context. What works with one nation may not work with another, even if India’s core interests remain the same.
India’s Evolving Global Role
The foreign minister also spoke about India’s growing global presence. As India engages simultaneously with major powers, regional partners, and developing nations, flexibility becomes essential.
As a result, India’s diplomacy now balances strategic autonomy, national interest, and global responsibility more carefully than before.
Message for Critics and Observers
Jaishankar’s remarks also appeared to address critics who question India’s varied diplomatic stances across regions. He argued that adaptability should not be mistaken for inconsistency.
Instead, he said, it reflects maturity and confidence in handling complex global challenges.
The Hanuman analogy resonated because it connects India’s cultural symbolism with modern statecraft. It also reinforces the idea that strong foreign policy lies in clarity of purpose, not uniformity of action.
Therefore, the statement adds insight into how India views its role in a multipolar world.
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