Genre: Biography
Finally I managed to get hold of a great biography for one of the India's most astute woman politician. Thanks to mom, a great reader herself, who lent me the book that she had borrowed from her friend. Reading thru' the book I realized I need to own it. Indira Gandhi, after all, has been one of the most enigmatic personalities I have always checked out. Alright back to the book!
The first part of the book - Indu's growing up years are an absolute treat. Such a normal childhood. A girl with innumerable problems - inferiority complex, shy, reserved and complete lack of confidence. But her father had told her that she has a bigger tryst with destiny than just being his daughter. Motilal Nehru's initial pomp, his later acceptance of the Mahatma's austerity are described very well. You also get a dekko into the conflicts between her mother and the Nehrus. Kamala Nehru was probably a misfit in the Nehru clan. The author has also mentioned Indu's frequent stand - offs with her aunt, Vijayalaksmi Pandit
The 1966 devaluation of rupee, nationalization of banks are the highlights of the next section. But the most important event which probably gave her the much deserved respect in the political arena was the 1971 war where 'Bangladesh' was born. Indira's visit to US just before the war is such a fantastic narration. The meeting with Nixon and Kissigner is one of the best reads here;)
The next section is probably what she is maximum criticized for - Emergency rule. 1975 - 1977 when the country was under Emergency rule Indira outlines her 20 point program which was hailed by many. Its important to note that many prominent personalities like Vinoba Bhave, Mother Teresa, Khushwant Singh and Ratan Tata were in favour of emergency and called it the period when the indian exchequer recovered. Ratan Tata had however regretted the support later. This section also shows how Sanjay Gandhi heavily maneuvered Indira. This section deserves a special mention because its captures the state of turmoil in a very lengthy and non preachy manner.
The last section(s) deal with Sanajay Gandhi's death and her face off with his wife - Maneka Gandhi. There is a big disappointment in the way 'Operation Blue Star' is covered. There aren't really any details. After all this was the event that cost Indira her life.
Overall, the book is very well written and a great read for biography enthusiasts! Yeah not to mention that just reading Indira Gandhi's life story saps up your energy, imagine she lived all of that!
A lovely Beethoven line used in the book -
I will take fate by the throat,it will not bend me completely to its will
Indira Gandhi: A Biography
