New Delhi/London: Eminent economist, author, and life peer Lord Meghnad Desai passed away on Monday at the age of 84, leaving behind a rich legacy of academic excellence and fearless public commentary. The news of his passing has sent ripples through the global academic and political communities, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressing deep sorrow over the loss.

Born in 1940 in Vadodara, Gujarat, Desai became a towering figure in both Indian and British intellectual circles. He was a professor at the London School of Economics (LSE) for nearly four decades and authored several acclaimed books on global economics, Marxism, and Indian politics. He was made a Labour peer in the House of Lords in 1991 and later became a crossbench member.

In a heartfelt message, Prime Minister Modi said, “Deeply anguished by the passing away of Lord Meghnad Desai. He was a towering intellectual and a man of profound ideas. His contribution to academia, public discourse, and economic thought was immense. He will be remembered for his clarity, courage, and commitment to truth.”

Lord Desai was known for speaking his mind, often challenging both Left and Right ideologies with equal rigour. His writings — from critiques of Nehruvian socialism to incisive takes on contemporary Indian politics — earned him respect across party lines.

Among his best-known works are Marx's Revenge: The Resurgence of Capitalism and the Death of Statist Socialism, and The Rediscovery of India, a contemporary reinterpretation of India's history and politics.

A lifelong advocate for rationalism, open debate, and secular values, Lord Desai also had a deep interest in Indian cinema and even wrote a book on Bollywood icon Dilip Kumar. Despite living in London for most of his adult life, he maintained strong connections with India and frequently engaged in debates about its economic and political trajectory.

Condolences have poured in from leaders, academics, and institutions across the world. The London School of Economics, where he taught for over 38 years, called him “an intellectual giant who inspired generations of students.”

Lord Meghnad Desai is survived by his wife, Kishwar Desai, an acclaimed author and columnist. Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced.