Derek O’Brien is a famous Indian politician, author, and quizzer. It is widely recognized for his excellent oratorical skills and contributions to Indian television. He is a member of the All India Trinamool Congress (AITC), currently serving as Rajya Sabha MP representing West Bengal in the Parliament of India. Beyond politics, Derek O’Brien has carved out a niche as a well-known trainer. It hosts the popular quiz competition Bournvita and hosts international quiz shows.
Personal Details
- Full Name: Derek O’Brien
- Date of Birth: 13 March 1961 (Age: 60 years)
- Birthplace: Kolkata, West Bengal
- Father’s Name: Neil O’Brien
- Mother’s Name: Joyce O’Brien
- Education:
- St. Xavier’s Collegiate School, Kolkata
- St. Columba’s School, Delhi
- Marital Status:
- First Wife: Rila Banerjee
- Second Wife: Dr. Tonuca Basu
Political and Business Travel
Political Career
- In 2004, he joined the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC).
- He is currently the leader of the TMC Parliamentary Party in the Rajya Sabha.
- Known for his powerful speeches and participation in parliamentary debates.
- Member of the Parliamentary Committee on Interior Affairs.
Career
- He started his journalist career at Sportsworld.
- He works as Creative Director at Ogilvy, a global advertising agency.
- He has earned a reputation as one of India’s leading quizzes. It hosts many national and international quiz shows at events in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, and the United States.
- He founded Derek O’Brien & Associates, a leading Q&A and knowledge firm in Kolkata.
Awards and Achievements
- Between 2003 and 2005, he was a three-time winner of the Indian Television Academy’s Best Host Award.
- Author of Inside Parliament, a bestselling book that explores the workings of Indian democracy.
Contact Information
Addresses
- Permanent Address:
158, Prince Anwar Shah Road, Kolkata – 700045 - Office Address:
183, South Avenue, New Delhi
Phone Numbers
- Kolkata Contact Number: (+91) 33-24228735
- Delhi Office Phone Numbers:
+91-11-21430954, 23795540, 23795549
Email IDs
- Official Email: [email protected]
- Personal Email: [email protected]
Fax Number
- Delhi Office Fax: 23795540
Social Media Profiles
Derek O’Brien maintains a strong presence on social media, where he shares updates on his political and personal endeavors. Follow him on these platforms to stay updated:
- X (formerly Twitter): x.com/derekobrienmp
- Instagram: instagram.com/derekobrienmp
- Facebook: facebook.com/derekobrienmp/
- YouTube Channel: @derekobrienmp
Notable Facts About Derek O’Brien
- Irish by birth, with a strong literary and academic foundation.
- His father, Neil O’Brien, pioneered Q&A in India and served as the former head of Oxford University Press in India.
- He hosts quiz shows in Pakistan and organizes various events across South Asia and the Middle East.
- After joining Mamata Banerjee’s Trinamool Congress, he transitioned to politics following a successful career in advertising and Q&A.
- A prolific writer, he has authored widely acclaimed books on politics and motivation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Question 1: How can I contact Derek O’Brien?
You can email him at [email protected] or contact his offices in Kolkata and New Delhi through the phone numbers provided.
Question 2: What was Derek O’Brien’s most important contribution to the Indian Parliament?
Derek O’Brien is known for his debates and active participation in important parliamentary committees, especially in areas related to home affairs and social policy.
Question 3: Is Derek O’Brien active on social media?
Yes, he is quite active on platforms like X, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube, where he interacts with his followers and shares updates about his work.