Vani Kant BOROOAH

I would like to offer here a modest testimony to the good and the kindness that Vani spread around him. I knew him as a young researcher, not long after I had defended my thesis: one of the very first articles I read on my thesis topic was his! We exchanged a great deal over the years, and he always showed me such warmth and generosity. He was like a guardian presence for me, and I am sure for others too. It was clear that this kindness came naturally to him, and that he was, at heart, a generous man. I must say that in my now-long experience of academic life, he was a rare bird indeed: never jealous or envious of others, but on the contrary inclusive and generous.

I saw him more often in Delhi than in Europe, sometimes surrounded by old friends from his youth, and that joyful company always gave me a sense of the importance of friendship, and the pleasure of being carried along by ideas. Vani taught me a great deal, and I deeply admired his sharp, discerning mind, and the fact that he refused easy or sweeping judgments - except when humor called for it!.

He loved life. When I told him, at a conference in Rennes where I had come to present our work, that I was expecting my second child, he was truly happy for me. The great joy of his retirement was, without a doubt, his grandchildren, who, as he used to say, brought him so much happiness.

I thank heaven that I had the chance to tell him, the last time I saw him, all the good he had done for me, and to thank him for his kindness. I hope he rests in peace, and his memory will stay with me always. Catherine Bros & family Tuesday 28 July 2026

Vidya, we would like to express our heartfelt sympathy on your loss of Vani. He was considerate, entertaining, and exceptionally good company. His enthusiasm was really infectious. We greatly enjoyed having you both to dinner in the past.
He made an amazing contribution to economics and public life generally on this island. His breath of interest and expertise, ranging from Assam in India to Northern Ireland and the island of Ireland, has greatly enriched public policy making.
I received another fascinating paper from him early this year and was unaware how ill he was.
When we last met he talked of Gautam and Sigi and the pleasure of getting to know Ozzie and Ivor, what was really important to him. He will be hugely missed.
John and Eithne Fitzgerald
John and Eithne Fitzgerald Tuesday 14 July 2026