The Congress MP’s two-day visit included meetings with Australian leaders, community interactions, and participation in an All Religions Conference at the Victorian Parliament.
MELBOURNE, 18 October 2025: Indian parliamentarian and Congress MP Dr Shashi Tharoor, chairperson of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs and author of 25 books, recently concluded a short visit to Australia.
During his two-day stay, Dr Tharoor took part in a series of discussions in Melbourne on India-Australia relations, global affairs, and contemporary political thought. His presence attracted attention in community and political circles, with many commenting on social media about his engagements.
Speaking to local media, Dr Tharoor said the Australian establishment views the Indian diaspora as contributing positively to the country’s development. His remarks come against the backdrop of recent anti-immigration rallies across Australia, some targeting growing migrant communities.
Dr Tharoor was reportedly on a private visit to attend the All Religions Conference held on 14 October 2025 at the Victorian Parliament, organised by the Shree Narayana Dharma Sangham Trust. The event was attended by trust monks, Victorian MPs, and community representatives.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Dr Tharoor wrote: “It’s a privilege to join voices celebrating oneness and faith beyond differences, in a world riven by conflict and communal hostility. The legacy of Sree Narayana Guru continues to inspire humanity and compassion across traditions.”
His schedule also included meetings with the Chair of the Joint Parliamentary Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade, the Lord Mayor and Deputy Lord Mayor of Melbourne, and visits to the Shrine of Remembrance and the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
He interacted with members of the Indian Overseas Congress (IOC) during a meet-and-greet, and later joined Tim Watts, former minister and current Chair of the Parliamentary Joint Subcommittee on Foreign Affairs, for a cruise and lunch meeting.
Dr Tharoor’s responses to media questions can be viewed on the South Asia Times (SAT) YouTube channel – @satimesSAT
