Rajni Kothari (1928–2015) was a preeminent Indian political scientist, political theorist, and activist. Widely regarded as the founder of modern comparative politics in India, he broke away from Western-centric models to build an indigenous framework for studying non-Western political systems. His work transcended academia; he was a fierce critic of the Emergency (1975–77), a pioneer of peace and human rights research in India, and the founder of the Lokayan and the Centre for the Study of Developing Societies (CSDS). This report outlines his key contributions, major works, and enduring legacy.

: Functioned as a "party of consensus" that absorbed various social, regional, and ideological interests.