Archive · 26 Jul 2026
SY Quraishi Recalls Life Lessons from Gardener and PM
SY Quraishi, a former Chief Election Commissioner, shared stories from his book 'India and I' at a launch event.
He talked about how a gardener taught him humility and how PM Manmohan Singh reacted strongly to his remarks about ministers.
The event was emotional when Quraishi recalled his late wife, Ila Sharma, who was a journalist, lawyer, and Nepal's Election Commissioner.
The book is a collection of 100 memories, each exactly two pages long, covering his life from childhood to election reforms.
The event was attended by senior advocate Kapil Sibal, journalists Rajdeep Sardesai, and Jyoti Malhotra, and was filled with humor, candid recollections, and little-known anecdotes.
SY Quraishi's book 'India and I' launched at India International Centre.
Quraishi learned humility from a gardener during his first posting in Sonipat.
PM Manmohan Singh reacted strongly to Quraishi's remarks about ministers' conduct.
The event included an emotional tribute to Quraishi's late wife, Ila Sharma.
The book contains 100 memories, each two pages long, covering Quraishi's life and career.
- Who
- SY Quraishi, Manmohan Singh, Ila Sharma
- What
- Launch of Quraishi's book 'India and I'
- When
- Saturday (specific date not mentioned)
- Where
- India International Centre, New Delhi
- Why
- To share personal and professional experiences that shaped Quraishi's life and career
Personal Growth
Public Service
Humility in Authority
Personal Growth
Quraishi learned humility from a gardener, realizing the temporary nature of his position.
Public Service
This lesson shaped his approach to public service, emphasizing the enduring nature of institutions.
Handling Criticism
Personal Growth
Quraishi's remark about ministers' conduct was misunderstood by PM Manmohan Singh, leading to a dramatic reaction.
Public Service
This incident highlights the challenges of navigating political sensitivities while upholding constitutional principles.
- Author
- SY Quraishi
- Book Title
- India and I
- Launch Event
- India International Centre
- Chief Guest
- Kapil Sibal
- Moderators
- Rajdeep Sardesai, Jyoti Malhotra
- Key Incident
- Manmohan Singh's reaction to Quraishi's remarks
- Emotional Moment
- Recollection of late wife Ila Sharma