An Evening with the Indian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom
Earlier this month, the College was honoured to host His Excellency, Mr Vikram K. Doraiswami, Indian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom. During his visit, Mr Doraiswami delivered an inspiring talk, reflecting on his distinguished career in public service and offering insights into the challenges and opportunities facing India in the 21st century.
Mr. Doraiswami addressed a wide range of topics, including his time as secretary to a former Prime Minister of India, the reliability of Indian EVMs, India's advancements in space exploration—remarking that its space programmes cost less than modern Hollywood movies—global digital innovation, and India’s role within it. He also shared perspectives on sustainability, nuclear power, Tata’s growing influence in the UK, and the evolving dynamics within BRICS nations. Highlighting the importance of democracy, he underscored India’s unique position as the largest democracy in the world.
Winchester College's historic ties to India are etched into its stonework and memorials, particularly in Cloister and War Cloister. During his visit, Mr. Doraiswami toured War Cloister, focusing on India Corner, which features symbols identical to those on the façade of India House, home to the Indian High Commission. Among notable Wykehamists with Indian connections are the Nawab of Pataudi, who captained the Indian cricket team at 21 and scored 1,068 runs for the College, and Sir Richard Stagg, the current Warden of Winchester College and former High Commissioner to India.
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