Dr. Shashi Tharoor launches What if…Why Not? by Ambassador H.E. Mr. Mohamed MALIKI at a special literary evening hosted by Oxford Bookstore

New Delhi, 26 May 2026: Oxford Bookstore hosted the launch of What if…Why Not? by H.E. Mr. Mohamed Maliki, The Ambassador of His Majesty the King of Morocco to India, at the winner announcement of the 11th Oxford Bookstore Book Cover Prize and longlist announcement ceremony of 4th Oxford Bookstore Art Book Prize hosted by Ms. Priti Paul, Director Apeejay Surrendra Group and Dr. Alka Pande, Museum Curator, Art Historian, Author and Jury Chair at the India Habitat Centre.

The book was launched by Dr. Shashi Tharoor, eminent Author and Member of Parliament, in the distinguished presence of designers, publishers, authors, artists, diplomats and literary enthusiasts from across the country. The launch was followed by an engaging discussion around the book featuring The Ambassador of His Majesty the King of Morocco to India, H.E. Mr. Mohamed Maliki, Dr. Shashi Tharoor and Dr. Alka Pande.

The conversation explored the central themes of What if…Why Not?, a deeply personal and insightful collection of stories drawn from Ambassador H.E. Mr. Mohamed Maliki’s diplomatic journey and life experiences. From the lively streets of Pakistan and stormy rains in Cameroon to moments of international negotiations and personal reflection, the discussion touched upon diplomacy, cultural exchange, resilience, family, and the human connections that shape lives across borders. More than a memoir of diplomacy, What if…Why Not? published by Indie Press, offers reflections on friendship, belonging, and the often-unseen role of spouses and families in a diplomat’s life. Written with warmth, honesty, humour, and insight, the book presents a rare perspective on representing Morocco across cultures while remaining grounded in personal values and relationships. The session witnessed thoughtful exchanges and enthusiastic participation from the audience.

Dr. Shashi Tharoor reflected on the significance of storytelling and lived experiences in fostering understanding across borders, while Dr. Alka Pande steered the discussion through themes addressed in the book and their contemporary relevance.

Speaking at the event, The Ambassador of His Majesty the King of Morocco to India, H.E. Mr. Mohamed Maliki, said, “True progress begins when we dare to ask ‘What if?’ and possess the audacity to answer ‘Why not?’ Yet, as we look ahead, we must remember that our greatest innovations mean nothing without a foundation; it is our deeply held values and the bonds of family that truly sustain us, proving far more essential than the material milestones we often chase. This book is a call to break free from conventional boundaries and reimagine our collective future. I am incredibly honoured to have Dr. Shashi Tharoor, a true champion of ideas, launch ‘What if, Why not’, and I hope it inspires readers to turn bold vision into reality.”

The launch added a profound literary moment to the evening, beautifully aligning with a celebration of excellence in Indian publishing and design, marked by the winner announcement of the 11th Oxford Bookstore Book Cover Prize and the longlist announcement of the 4th Oxford Bookstore Art Book Prize. The evening concluded with vibrant celebrations recognizing achievements in literature, design, and art publishing, further reinforcing Oxford Bookstores’ continued commitment to fostering creative excellence and cross-cultural connection in India.

About the author

Mohamed Maliki is currently the Ambassador of His Majesty the King of Morocco to India; with additional accreditations to Bhutan, the Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. A seasoned diplomat with more than 35 years in service; he previously served in Pakistan and Cameroon and headed the Asian and Oceanian Affairs Division at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Rabat, besides holding many other official positions. Renowned for strengthening ties in trade, defence, technology, education, and culture across Asia; his writings reflect the life insights of a Moroccan shaped by decades of cross-cultural experiences and a diplomat’s deep commitment to global understanding.

About the book

What If… Why Not? by Mohamed Maliki is a warm and insightful reflection on a life in diplomacy and beyond. Through vivid stories-from funs and pitfalls to stressful and emotional moments, from the bustling streets of Pakistan to the stormy rains of Cameroon-Maliki shares the joys, challenges, and human connections that define his journey. More than a chronicle of service in diplomacy, this book celebrates history, simplicity, friendship, family, resilience and the often-unseen strength of spouses in a diplomat’s life.