What do you think?
Rate this book
How Prime Ministers Decide
India’s prime ministers have taken decisions that changed the course of the country’s history. This book by Neerja Chowdhury, an award-winning journalist and political commentator, goes beyond the news headlines to provide an eye-opening account of how some of the most important political decisions in independent India were taken.
The author analyses the operating styles of the country’s prime ministers through the prism of six decisions of historic significance. These are as the strategy that Indira Gandhi devised to return to power in 1980, after her humiliating defeat post the Emergency in 1977; the errors of judgment that led Rajiv Gandhi to undo the Supreme Court’s judgment in the Shah Bano case; V. P. Singh’s implementation of the Mandal Commission Report to save his government which forever changed the face of contemporary politics; P. V. Narasimha Rao’s masterful indecision that resulted in the demolition of the Babri Masjid; the rapidly changing political scenarios that turned the avowed pacifist Atal Bihari Vajpayee into a nuclear hawk who greenlighted the testing of nuclear devices; and the mild and professorial Manmohan Singh, widely regarded as one of the country’s weakest prime ministers, who defied interest groups and foes within the political establishment to seal a historic nuclear deal with the United States and upgraded the bilateral relationship to a new level.
Based on hundreds of interviews that the author conducted with prime ministers, key figures in the political establishment, bureaucrats, aides, policymakers, and even fixers—the book provides remarkable insights that have been gleaned over forty years of high-level reporting on the national political scene.
How Prime Ministers Decide is an unparalleled book about modern Indian politics which will change the way we view how prime ministers govern the country.
The author analyses the operating styles of the country’s prime ministers through the prism of six decisions of historic significance. These are as the strategy that Indira Gandhi devised to return to power in 1980, after her humiliating defeat post the Emergency in 1977; the errors of judgment that led Rajiv Gandhi to undo the Supreme Court’s judgment in the Shah Bano case; V. P. Singh’s implementation of the Mandal Commission Report to save his government which forever changed the face of contemporary politics; P. V. Narasimha Rao’s masterful indecision that resulted in the demolition of the Babri Masjid; the rapidly changing political scenarios that turned the avowed pacifist Atal Bihari Vajpayee into a nuclear hawk who greenlighted the testing of nuclear devices; and the mild and professorial Manmohan Singh, widely regarded as one of the country’s weakest prime ministers, who defied interest groups and foes within the political establishment to seal a historic nuclear deal with the United States and upgraded the bilateral relationship to a new level.
Based on hundreds of interviews that the author conducted with prime ministers, key figures in the political establishment, bureaucrats, aides, policymakers, and even fixers—the book provides remarkable insights that have been gleaned over forty years of high-level reporting on the national political scene.
How Prime Ministers Decide is an unparalleled book about modern Indian politics which will change the way we view how prime ministers govern the country.
585 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 5, 2023
235 people are currently reading
1288 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
August 23, 2023
Neerja Chowdhury's "How Prime Ministers Decide" provides a deep dive into India's historical turning points. Through insightful analysis and firsthand interviews, the book offers a fresh perspective on the decisions that have shaped the nation's course. A compelling read for those intrigued by Indian politics and leadership dynamics.
January 21, 2024
Provides a detailed window into India's political past. Therefore also provides a lot of context for observing the current political landscape. Political figures from the past are often reduced to a few factoids in the contemporary Zeitgeist; Neerja Choudhury tells us how those times and those people were so much more than their caricatured memories.
As a book, it is a fairly breezy read. While the content is rich in information, the pace of the writing is brisk.
As a book, it is a fairly breezy read. While the content is rich in information, the pace of the writing is brisk.
July 31, 2024
Neerja gives here a 'fly on the wall' perspective of how 6 of the major decisions taken by our ex-PMs in the past, that changed the course of country's history - The declaration of emergency by Indira Gandhi and her subsequent comeback, The overturning of Shah Bano verdict by Rajiv Gandhi, Implementation of the Mandal commission recommendation by V. P. Singh, The inactions during the demolition of Babri Masjid in the tenure of P V Narasimha Rao, Pokhran tests by Vajpayee, and the Indo-US nuclear deal by Manmohan Singh. The author provides the background build up, the execution and finally the after effect of each of these events in a racy thriller format carefully hiding the author's own possible inherent biases, making it a riveting read. A must for every Indian political history enthusiast.
A shout-out to Benaifer J. Mirza for lending her voice to this audiobook and making my office-commute really enjoyable.
A shout-out to Benaifer J. Mirza for lending her voice to this audiobook and making my office-commute really enjoyable.
Read
August 20, 2023How Prime Ministers Decide: An Unprecedented, Explosive Look at How Decisions are taken at the Very Top of the Political Establishment.
Author: Neerja Chowdhary
Published by Aleph Book Company
Non-Fiction/Politics
Pages: 578
MRP: Rs. 999/-
Thank you Aleph Book Company for a media copy of the book.
The Book focuses on the major decisions taken on by various decisions taken by some of the Former Prime Ministers of our country, how those decisions were taken and what impact they had. It starts from Indira Gandhi declaring the emergency, loosing power and returning back(the decision to hold elections in the first place is also discussed); Rajiv Gandhi usurping the Supreme Court judgement on the Shah Bano case(to appease the Muslims), and all the political turmoil it led to including him having reopen the Ayodhya Mandir gates (to appease the Hindu’s) and all other decisions taken, which ultimately led to his assassination by the LTTE; the author also talks about V.P Singh and the dangerous Mandal Gambit which changed Indian political landscape forever; about P.V. Narasimha Rao and his indecision and inaction which led to the demolition of the Babri Masjid and all the turmoil that followed including the Bombay Blasts of 1992; about Atal Bihari Vajpayee who proved the opposition wrong, faced global backlash but authorized the testing of Nuclear Devices, making India a nuclear power and a force to be reckoned with; about Manmohan Singh’s administration, the author says it probably is the most underrated, and that they actually got quite a lot done. The most significant of which, is probably the Indo-US Nuclear Deal, the roots of which were set by the previous administration, this deal eased the sanctions the US had imposed on India and the global backlash had reduced significantly.
While the book covers quite a lot, and I am very impressed and thoroughly enjoyed reading the material, it could have been better packaged. The cover could have mentioned that the book only talks about administrations from Indira Gandhi to Manmohan Singh, so not to expect some of the recent decisions taken by the current administration, or decisions taken on prior to Indira Gandhi.
Continue reading on the website. Here is the link: https://www.keetabikeeda.in/post/cast...
Author: Neerja Chowdhary
Published by Aleph Book Company
Non-Fiction/Politics
Pages: 578
MRP: Rs. 999/-
Thank you Aleph Book Company for a media copy of the book.
The Book focuses on the major decisions taken on by various decisions taken by some of the Former Prime Ministers of our country, how those decisions were taken and what impact they had. It starts from Indira Gandhi declaring the emergency, loosing power and returning back(the decision to hold elections in the first place is also discussed); Rajiv Gandhi usurping the Supreme Court judgement on the Shah Bano case(to appease the Muslims), and all the political turmoil it led to including him having reopen the Ayodhya Mandir gates (to appease the Hindu’s) and all other decisions taken, which ultimately led to his assassination by the LTTE; the author also talks about V.P Singh and the dangerous Mandal Gambit which changed Indian political landscape forever; about P.V. Narasimha Rao and his indecision and inaction which led to the demolition of the Babri Masjid and all the turmoil that followed including the Bombay Blasts of 1992; about Atal Bihari Vajpayee who proved the opposition wrong, faced global backlash but authorized the testing of Nuclear Devices, making India a nuclear power and a force to be reckoned with; about Manmohan Singh’s administration, the author says it probably is the most underrated, and that they actually got quite a lot done. The most significant of which, is probably the Indo-US Nuclear Deal, the roots of which were set by the previous administration, this deal eased the sanctions the US had imposed on India and the global backlash had reduced significantly.
While the book covers quite a lot, and I am very impressed and thoroughly enjoyed reading the material, it could have been better packaged. The cover could have mentioned that the book only talks about administrations from Indira Gandhi to Manmohan Singh, so not to expect some of the recent decisions taken by the current administration, or decisions taken on prior to Indira Gandhi.
Continue reading on the website. Here is the link: https://www.keetabikeeda.in/post/cast...
July 23, 2024
A revealing book indeed. Currently reading the Rajiv Gandhi's section and realise that the issues being talked all around and on current dispensation (pre-election) have much more complexities and lots that is hidden under the political world. What all is not played and has not been played by people on top whom we vote and take on the face value. Perhaps, a routine normal happening in corridors of power world over but disturbing too if you believe in idealism or thought so. Seems, the book will open eyes on many more realisations in pages ahead.
The author has summed up which I would like to quote: Politics is about power. Unless politicians win elections, there is no prime-ministerial story to tell. But where does the Lakshman Rekha (the finer line or the limit) drawn, where do vision - and pragmatism - come together for the larger good than just for perpetuating power? That distinguishing line is blurred and almost gone. That the India is essentially a coalition - and it should be ruled like a coalition, by consensus, whether there is a single party at the helm or an alliance of parties, whether headed by a strong leader or a weak one."
The book must be read.
The author has summed up which I would like to quote: Politics is about power. Unless politicians win elections, there is no prime-ministerial story to tell. But where does the Lakshman Rekha (the finer line or the limit) drawn, where do vision - and pragmatism - come together for the larger good than just for perpetuating power? That distinguishing line is blurred and almost gone. That the India is essentially a coalition - and it should be ruled like a coalition, by consensus, whether there is a single party at the helm or an alliance of parties, whether headed by a strong leader or a weak one."
The book must be read.
July 9, 2024
If you are a fan of Indian politics and are interested in the multiple chapters that changed the course of Indian politics forever this book is for you. It covers the following - Emergency and Mrs Gandhi's comeback, Rajiv Gandhi n Shah Bano verdict, VP Singh n Mandal, Vajpayee and Nuclear testing, Narasimha Rao and demolition of the Babri masjid and Manmohan Singh and the nuclear treaty.
The book is a treasure for its readers given the incredible anecdotes it shares about the multiple considerations and extremely unbiased opinions about how these PMs dealt with these path breaking events.
The only bias which is very evident in the author's writing is her over reliance on the account of certain individuals - like Kapil Mohan, Naresh Chandra etc. This at times makes it sound a bit one sided but nevertheless, the best political book in a long time.
The book is a treasure for its readers given the incredible anecdotes it shares about the multiple considerations and extremely unbiased opinions about how these PMs dealt with these path breaking events.
The only bias which is very evident in the author's writing is her over reliance on the account of certain individuals - like Kapil Mohan, Naresh Chandra etc. This at times makes it sound a bit one sided but nevertheless, the best political book in a long time.
September 18, 2025
Honestly, eye opening. A journalistic look into the post Nehru - Pre Modi era and some of the biggest decisions ever made. Those that made our democracy great ( because it’s still alive ) and those that almost destroyed it.
April 20, 2025
I read Neerja Chowdhury's columns and op-eds with great interest during my formative years. I always found her writing sharp, candid, and engaging. There was no way I was going to skip a chance to lay my hands on her voluminous tome on the modern political history of India, featuring six prime ministers from Indira Gandhi to Manmohan Singh. I wish she had written about Modi, too, but that might be a tough ask considering her left-liberal leanings.
Indira Gandhi has always been a fascinating subject for political historians in India. The lady is enigmatic, charismatic, despotic, adored and at the same time passionately hated and despised depending on which side of the political divide one is on. One can almost feel that Neerja revels in portraying the successes, trials, and tribulations of this enigmatic leader of India, who on more occasions than one has been equated with “Durga” of the Hindu pantheon. In her account of Indira in this book, Neerja focuses on the downfall of Indira Gandhi following the imposition of Emergency in 1975. In 1977, she was convincingly defeated in the hustings by the Janata Party, following which Morarji Desai became the Prime Minister of India leading a coalition government consisting of a disparate group of politicians who had no common ideology nor the good of the Nation in their heart. Indira the politician, was initially despondent at her defeat but soon realised that she had a real chance at getting back to power considering the tenuous state of relations between coalition partners of the Janata Party government. By her side was her devoted and doting son, Sanjay Gandhi, for whom she had a soft corner. Sanjay proved to be a ruthless tactician and he along with his cronies managed to create internecine conflicts within the government leading to its eventual downfall. This was followed by a thumping victory in the 1980 general elections. Sanjay Gandhi was being groomed by his mother to take over her mantle, and he would have been a future premier had it not been for a tragic air accident in 1983 that took his life prematurely. Neerja has come up with a balanced account of Indira’s life and it makes intriguing reading. She has managed to get quotes from insiders, and this makes the account more captivating. Neerja comes across as a fly on the wall watching historic events unfold right in front of her eyes.
Neerja writes about Rajiv Gandhi in the chapter titled “The Secular Prime Minister Who Undermined Secularism.” This title encapsulates the legacy of Rajiv Gandhi-a Prime Ministership that was thrust upon him and which ended on a tragic note with his assassination at the hands of the LTTE. Commentators say that Rajiv was a reluctant politician, but on reading Neerja’s essay, one tends to doubt whether that supposition holds. It was more of a role that came to him as a birthright and in those days of supremacy of the Congress and the power wielded by Indira Gandhi, the succession from mother to son was taken for granted. Indira Gandhi’s assassination indeed hastened Rajiv's accession to the throne, but it was bound to happen in any case. Naïveté is the word that comes to one’s mind when you read about how Rajiv went about arriving at weighty and important decisions that affected a big nation like India. He blindly believed his advisors, chief among whom was his cousin, Arun Nehru. It was not long before Nehru became a centre of power himself which eventually led to both of them falling out. Congress was particularly adept at the game of “divide and rule” and towards this end, Rajiv made a conscious effort to appease the Muslims. Rajiv’s role in the reversal of the Shah Bano verdict was not received well by the Hindu majority. They saw it as pandering to the unreasonable demands of the Muslim minority. And to balance it out, Rajiv went ahead and facilitated the opening of the disputed Babri Masjid allowing access to the Hindus to pray inside the mosque where an idol had been placed earlier. It is interesting to note that Rajiv took both these decisions on the advice of his so-called "well-wishers” and both these decisions turned out to be suicidal and remained as festering wounds on the body politic of the Indian nation. It is only after the ascent of Narendra Modi to power that a solution has been arrived at, though not an ideal one, for the Ram Janmaboomi imbroglio. Neerja’s account of Rajiv’s shenanigans was a revelation for me. I was surprised to note that Arif Mohammed Khan (the erstwhile Governor of Kerala) fearlessly took on the might of the Rajiv Gandhi government even though he was a member of the Ministry. He was forthright in airing his views about the Muslim Women’s Bill and tried to point out to Rajiv the dangerous path he was embarking upon. Alas, Rajiv did not heed his advice, and this caused irreparable damage to Indian society.
Neerja’s next subject is VP Singh, who is described as a crafty politician. I was in the final stages of graduation when VP Singh held sway in the political firmament of India. My recollection of VP Singh is as a person who for his narrow interests unleashed fissiparous tendencies in India through the implementation of the Mandal Commission report. I distinctly remember the mayhem unleashed on the streets of North Indian cities. Surprisingly, there was hardly a ripple felt in Kerala. I distinctly remember Rajeev Goswami who tried to immolate himself in New Delhi in protest against the implementation of the report. Neerja’s account mentions 200 immolations that happened throughout India during that period and that was news to me. As usual, the left-liberal mainstream media in Kerala was quiet about it at that time. And, of course, there was no social media that could have enlightened the population about the atrocities happening across the nation. The essay on VP Singh is replete with references to self-serving Indian politicians who had no qualms about dividing the nation along caste lines just so that they could reap the benefits of office. India, to this day, faces the monstrous genie that was let out of the bottle by V P Singh. It is a moot point as to when this country is going to be rid of the social atrocities that are taking place in the name of the caste divide. The present dispensation is trying its level best to unite all Indians across castes, but as of now, it seems like a tough goal to achieve.
No account of the modern political history of India would be complete without a mention of the ninth Prime Minister, P V Narasimha Rao. I distinctly remember his pictures on TV and other media where he was seen with his ubiquitous pout. He looked like someone unhappy with all that was going on around him! P V had almost given up on his long-held ambition of becoming the Prime Minister of India and it was Rajiv Gandhi’s assassination that catapulted him to the coveted post. There were a lot of theatrics that took place behind the scenes with a score of Congress leaders trying to climb onto the throne once it became common knowledge that Sonia Gandhi was not interested. Narasimha Rao, at this juncture, exhibited immense political guile and managed to get himself anointed as the Prime Minister. But all through his career, it was obvious that he would go to any lengths to ensure the longevity of his career even at the cost of the Nation. It was during his tenure as the Prime Minister that the Sangh Parivar was becoming increasingly strident about building a Ram temple at Ayodhya. Rao wanted to pull the rug from under the Hindutva forces and on multiple occasions made noises about his government's intention of “building a Ram Temple at Ayodhya.” But he misread the intentions and the resolve of the far Right. So, under Rao's watch, the Babri Masjid was brought down. That irreversibly ended the sway that the Congress party held over Uttar Pradesh and changed the façade of national political alignments forever. Neerja writes in detail about the intricate political shenanigans that Rao and the Congress party indulged in to destabilise the Right-wing forces. Neerja also writes in detail about the political wizardry played by the Jan Sangh and the BJP.
Atal Bihari Vajpayee is the only BJP leader who is featured in this book. Neerja does not write about the Modi administration probably because Modi has kept journalists at arm's length during his uninterrupted tenure from 2014. Atal Bihari Vajpayee has been portrayed as a moderate by the leftists and liberals in India and is often used as a counterweight to discredit the decisive politician that Modi is. Vajpayee had no other choice but to be a moderate as he did not have the decisive majority that Modi managed to garner in 2014 and 2019. Vajpayee had to work within the constraints of coalition politics, and he could carry his detractors along with him. It was during his tenure that India reaped the benefits of the wave of liberalisation that Narasimha Rao started in the early 1990s. Neerja chooses to focus on the stellar work that Vajpayee did in ensuring national security through the nuclear path. Neerja’s account details the choppy waters of international diplomacy that Vajpayee and his team navigated thereby leading India to be recognised as a Nuclear Weapon State. It was enlightening to read about the immense clout exercised by Vajpayee’s National Security Adviser, Brijesh Mishra. Mishra played a sterling role in taking India successfully down the path of nuclear weaponisation.
Neerja wraps up the book with an essay featuring Manmohan Singh. She focuses on the nuclear deal that Manmohan concluded with the Americans. It was probably the only decisive action that Manmohan Singh managed to bring to fruition during his entire tenure, tied down as he was under the tyrannical control of Sonia Gandhi on governance. For all practical purposes, most political commentators consider Sonia Gandhi to have been the true power behind the throne during the 10-year UPA rule from 2004-2014. For one, Manmohan had the misfortune of being at the helm of a coalition government that was composed of political parties with disparate ideologies. It is common knowledge that Manmohan did not have the freedom to function independently while under the constant scrutiny of the Congress President. A major part of the essay is dedicated to Sonia Gandhi, the unofficial Prime Minister of India. Neerja paints a haloed picture of Sonia, who according to her made the “supreme sacrifice” and allowed Manmohan to ascend the throne as the Prime Minister. Sonia, however, ended up being the centre of power with all authority vested in her while being absolved of any responsibility for her actions. Neerja then goes on to give a gripping account of how Manmohan Singh managed to push the nuclear deal through even at the risk of having to take the aid of shady businessmen like Sant Chatwal. My reading is that there was a hidden agenda that prompted the Indian government to go in for the deal against immense resistance put up by even the members of the ruling coalition. There had to be some ulterior motive behind the Americans pushing for the deal though the common discourse is that they wanted India to be a counterweight to the Chinese in Asia. I am not that naïve to believe in that theory.
In the epilogue, Neerja fleetingly mentions about Narendra Modi. This book was completed before Modi successfully obtained a third term in office after the 2024 elections. Neerja’s contention at not having a chapter dedicated to the Modi Prime ministership is that Modi’s tenure is still a work in progress. However, the difference in approach of the earlier Prime Ministers and Modi in their style of functioning could not have been starker. Neerja herself notes that none of the Prime Ministers whom she has written about planned for the future. Most of the decisions were knee-jerk reactions to crises facing the nation. By contrast, the Modi dispensation comes across as more pragmatic, decisive, and confident in its actions. It is a pity that most of the youth of the country are not aware of the state of the nation before Modi came to power almost 11 years back. This is a weak point for the present dispensation in that the opposition of today can easily paint a wrong picture of the state of the country before Modi took the top job.
Neerja's book is voluminous but at the same time an engaging read. Neerja has access to a lot of privileged information, a surfeit of which she has used in this book. This makes the book interesting. It reads like a concise account of the modern political history of the nation spanning the past seven decades less the Modi Prime ministership. This book is highly recommended for anyone interested in the modern political history of the country.
Indira Gandhi has always been a fascinating subject for political historians in India. The lady is enigmatic, charismatic, despotic, adored and at the same time passionately hated and despised depending on which side of the political divide one is on. One can almost feel that Neerja revels in portraying the successes, trials, and tribulations of this enigmatic leader of India, who on more occasions than one has been equated with “Durga” of the Hindu pantheon. In her account of Indira in this book, Neerja focuses on the downfall of Indira Gandhi following the imposition of Emergency in 1975. In 1977, she was convincingly defeated in the hustings by the Janata Party, following which Morarji Desai became the Prime Minister of India leading a coalition government consisting of a disparate group of politicians who had no common ideology nor the good of the Nation in their heart. Indira the politician, was initially despondent at her defeat but soon realised that she had a real chance at getting back to power considering the tenuous state of relations between coalition partners of the Janata Party government. By her side was her devoted and doting son, Sanjay Gandhi, for whom she had a soft corner. Sanjay proved to be a ruthless tactician and he along with his cronies managed to create internecine conflicts within the government leading to its eventual downfall. This was followed by a thumping victory in the 1980 general elections. Sanjay Gandhi was being groomed by his mother to take over her mantle, and he would have been a future premier had it not been for a tragic air accident in 1983 that took his life prematurely. Neerja has come up with a balanced account of Indira’s life and it makes intriguing reading. She has managed to get quotes from insiders, and this makes the account more captivating. Neerja comes across as a fly on the wall watching historic events unfold right in front of her eyes.
Neerja writes about Rajiv Gandhi in the chapter titled “The Secular Prime Minister Who Undermined Secularism.” This title encapsulates the legacy of Rajiv Gandhi-a Prime Ministership that was thrust upon him and which ended on a tragic note with his assassination at the hands of the LTTE. Commentators say that Rajiv was a reluctant politician, but on reading Neerja’s essay, one tends to doubt whether that supposition holds. It was more of a role that came to him as a birthright and in those days of supremacy of the Congress and the power wielded by Indira Gandhi, the succession from mother to son was taken for granted. Indira Gandhi’s assassination indeed hastened Rajiv's accession to the throne, but it was bound to happen in any case. Naïveté is the word that comes to one’s mind when you read about how Rajiv went about arriving at weighty and important decisions that affected a big nation like India. He blindly believed his advisors, chief among whom was his cousin, Arun Nehru. It was not long before Nehru became a centre of power himself which eventually led to both of them falling out. Congress was particularly adept at the game of “divide and rule” and towards this end, Rajiv made a conscious effort to appease the Muslims. Rajiv’s role in the reversal of the Shah Bano verdict was not received well by the Hindu majority. They saw it as pandering to the unreasonable demands of the Muslim minority. And to balance it out, Rajiv went ahead and facilitated the opening of the disputed Babri Masjid allowing access to the Hindus to pray inside the mosque where an idol had been placed earlier. It is interesting to note that Rajiv took both these decisions on the advice of his so-called "well-wishers” and both these decisions turned out to be suicidal and remained as festering wounds on the body politic of the Indian nation. It is only after the ascent of Narendra Modi to power that a solution has been arrived at, though not an ideal one, for the Ram Janmaboomi imbroglio. Neerja’s account of Rajiv’s shenanigans was a revelation for me. I was surprised to note that Arif Mohammed Khan (the erstwhile Governor of Kerala) fearlessly took on the might of the Rajiv Gandhi government even though he was a member of the Ministry. He was forthright in airing his views about the Muslim Women’s Bill and tried to point out to Rajiv the dangerous path he was embarking upon. Alas, Rajiv did not heed his advice, and this caused irreparable damage to Indian society.
Neerja’s next subject is VP Singh, who is described as a crafty politician. I was in the final stages of graduation when VP Singh held sway in the political firmament of India. My recollection of VP Singh is as a person who for his narrow interests unleashed fissiparous tendencies in India through the implementation of the Mandal Commission report. I distinctly remember the mayhem unleashed on the streets of North Indian cities. Surprisingly, there was hardly a ripple felt in Kerala. I distinctly remember Rajeev Goswami who tried to immolate himself in New Delhi in protest against the implementation of the report. Neerja’s account mentions 200 immolations that happened throughout India during that period and that was news to me. As usual, the left-liberal mainstream media in Kerala was quiet about it at that time. And, of course, there was no social media that could have enlightened the population about the atrocities happening across the nation. The essay on VP Singh is replete with references to self-serving Indian politicians who had no qualms about dividing the nation along caste lines just so that they could reap the benefits of office. India, to this day, faces the monstrous genie that was let out of the bottle by V P Singh. It is a moot point as to when this country is going to be rid of the social atrocities that are taking place in the name of the caste divide. The present dispensation is trying its level best to unite all Indians across castes, but as of now, it seems like a tough goal to achieve.
No account of the modern political history of India would be complete without a mention of the ninth Prime Minister, P V Narasimha Rao. I distinctly remember his pictures on TV and other media where he was seen with his ubiquitous pout. He looked like someone unhappy with all that was going on around him! P V had almost given up on his long-held ambition of becoming the Prime Minister of India and it was Rajiv Gandhi’s assassination that catapulted him to the coveted post. There were a lot of theatrics that took place behind the scenes with a score of Congress leaders trying to climb onto the throne once it became common knowledge that Sonia Gandhi was not interested. Narasimha Rao, at this juncture, exhibited immense political guile and managed to get himself anointed as the Prime Minister. But all through his career, it was obvious that he would go to any lengths to ensure the longevity of his career even at the cost of the Nation. It was during his tenure as the Prime Minister that the Sangh Parivar was becoming increasingly strident about building a Ram temple at Ayodhya. Rao wanted to pull the rug from under the Hindutva forces and on multiple occasions made noises about his government's intention of “building a Ram Temple at Ayodhya.” But he misread the intentions and the resolve of the far Right. So, under Rao's watch, the Babri Masjid was brought down. That irreversibly ended the sway that the Congress party held over Uttar Pradesh and changed the façade of national political alignments forever. Neerja writes in detail about the intricate political shenanigans that Rao and the Congress party indulged in to destabilise the Right-wing forces. Neerja also writes in detail about the political wizardry played by the Jan Sangh and the BJP.
Atal Bihari Vajpayee is the only BJP leader who is featured in this book. Neerja does not write about the Modi administration probably because Modi has kept journalists at arm's length during his uninterrupted tenure from 2014. Atal Bihari Vajpayee has been portrayed as a moderate by the leftists and liberals in India and is often used as a counterweight to discredit the decisive politician that Modi is. Vajpayee had no other choice but to be a moderate as he did not have the decisive majority that Modi managed to garner in 2014 and 2019. Vajpayee had to work within the constraints of coalition politics, and he could carry his detractors along with him. It was during his tenure that India reaped the benefits of the wave of liberalisation that Narasimha Rao started in the early 1990s. Neerja chooses to focus on the stellar work that Vajpayee did in ensuring national security through the nuclear path. Neerja’s account details the choppy waters of international diplomacy that Vajpayee and his team navigated thereby leading India to be recognised as a Nuclear Weapon State. It was enlightening to read about the immense clout exercised by Vajpayee’s National Security Adviser, Brijesh Mishra. Mishra played a sterling role in taking India successfully down the path of nuclear weaponisation.
Neerja wraps up the book with an essay featuring Manmohan Singh. She focuses on the nuclear deal that Manmohan concluded with the Americans. It was probably the only decisive action that Manmohan Singh managed to bring to fruition during his entire tenure, tied down as he was under the tyrannical control of Sonia Gandhi on governance. For all practical purposes, most political commentators consider Sonia Gandhi to have been the true power behind the throne during the 10-year UPA rule from 2004-2014. For one, Manmohan had the misfortune of being at the helm of a coalition government that was composed of political parties with disparate ideologies. It is common knowledge that Manmohan did not have the freedom to function independently while under the constant scrutiny of the Congress President. A major part of the essay is dedicated to Sonia Gandhi, the unofficial Prime Minister of India. Neerja paints a haloed picture of Sonia, who according to her made the “supreme sacrifice” and allowed Manmohan to ascend the throne as the Prime Minister. Sonia, however, ended up being the centre of power with all authority vested in her while being absolved of any responsibility for her actions. Neerja then goes on to give a gripping account of how Manmohan Singh managed to push the nuclear deal through even at the risk of having to take the aid of shady businessmen like Sant Chatwal. My reading is that there was a hidden agenda that prompted the Indian government to go in for the deal against immense resistance put up by even the members of the ruling coalition. There had to be some ulterior motive behind the Americans pushing for the deal though the common discourse is that they wanted India to be a counterweight to the Chinese in Asia. I am not that naïve to believe in that theory.
In the epilogue, Neerja fleetingly mentions about Narendra Modi. This book was completed before Modi successfully obtained a third term in office after the 2024 elections. Neerja’s contention at not having a chapter dedicated to the Modi Prime ministership is that Modi’s tenure is still a work in progress. However, the difference in approach of the earlier Prime Ministers and Modi in their style of functioning could not have been starker. Neerja herself notes that none of the Prime Ministers whom she has written about planned for the future. Most of the decisions were knee-jerk reactions to crises facing the nation. By contrast, the Modi dispensation comes across as more pragmatic, decisive, and confident in its actions. It is a pity that most of the youth of the country are not aware of the state of the nation before Modi came to power almost 11 years back. This is a weak point for the present dispensation in that the opposition of today can easily paint a wrong picture of the state of the country before Modi took the top job.
Neerja's book is voluminous but at the same time an engaging read. Neerja has access to a lot of privileged information, a surfeit of which she has used in this book. This makes the book interesting. It reads like a concise account of the modern political history of the nation spanning the past seven decades less the Modi Prime ministership. This book is highly recommended for anyone interested in the modern political history of the country.
September 14, 2025
It is an amazing insight into decision making which went on at critical times in post-independence India.
To me the most interesting bits were about how various Prime Ministers handled the issue of testing nuclear weapons.
However, just wish all the anecdotes with regard to each Prime Minister were organised chronologically.
To me the most interesting bits were about how various Prime Ministers handled the issue of testing nuclear weapons.
However, just wish all the anecdotes with regard to each Prime Minister were organised chronologically.
January 28, 2026
Delivers a gripping narrative, if you can wade through the names.
February 6, 2025
A look into the politics of some of the biggest decisions taken by 6 PM’s of the country. Super interesting!
August 5, 2023
Through the analysis of six key historical decisions, the book "How Prime Ministers Decide" explores the decision-making processes used by Indian prime ministers. Indira Gandhi's 1980 comeback plan, Rajiv Gandhi's poor decision-making in the Shah Bano case, and V.P. Singh's adoption of the Mandal Commission Report's recommendations all contributed to changes in politics. It also looks at Atal Bihari Vajpayee's transition to a pro-nuclear posture, P.V. Narasimha Rao's lack of decisiveness that led to the destruction of the Babri Masjid, and Manmohan Singh's historic nuclear agreement with the US. Neerja Chowdhary's book, which she wrote, provides distinctive insights on contemporary Indian politics as gleaned from conversations with politicians and bureaucrats.
July 17, 2024
It reads like a thriller!..for people who lived through the tenure of all the prime ministers..like me..it’s like walking through the history with the knowledge of future..the strengths, vulnerabilities of the leaders juxtaposed with the prevalent times/situations is well presented/discussed..many rumours of the time are demystified..
Read
October 31, 2025Completed reading
"How Prime Ministers Decide"
by #NeerjaChowdhury
This must read book is a masterful exploration of the political instincts, personalities, and decision-making styles of six Indian Prime Ministers who shaped the present times of our nation!
Drawing upon decades of journalistic experience and rare insider access, Chowdhury offers a compelling narrative that goes beyond mere political chronicle, delving into the psychology of leadership and the intricate web of power politics that shaped modern India.
Each #PrimeMinister in the book is portrayed not just as a policymaker but as a strategist navigating extraordinary challenges. #IndiraGandhi, for instance, is depicted as an astute and ruthless political operator who wielded power with an iron hand. When faced with crises, she demonstrated unmatched political acumen, often blurring the line between governance and control. Her decisions, though controversial, reflected her deep understanding of power dynamics.
#RajivGandhi, in contrast, emerges as a reluctant leader propelled into office by tragedy. Despite his inexperience, he displayed remarkable vision in technology and foreign policy but was eventually undone by political naivety and misplaced trust. Chowdhury captures his struggle to balance idealism with realpolitik, highlighting how he, too, resorted to political maneuvering to preserve authority.
#VPSingh’s tenure stands out for moral conviction and his decision to implement the #MandalCommission report that shook the nation and reshaped Indian politics, forever. Yet, it also reveals the paradox of power: Singh’s political survival depended on the very caste dynamics he sought to transcend.
#PVNarasimhaRao’s portrait is one of quiet brilliance. In the aftermath of economic collapse and political instability, Rao used his understated intellect to usher in liberalisation, while deftly managing a fragile coalition. His political shrewdness lay in appearing passive while steering momentous change.
#AtalBihariVajpayee, charismatic and poetic, is shown balancing ideology with pragmatism. Whether it was conducting nuclear tests or seeking peace with Pakistan, Vajpayee played politics with finesse and displayed firmness when necessary, conciliatory when expedient.
Finally, Dr. #ManmohanSingh, the technocrat-PM, is portrayed as the reluctant politician who mastered survival through silence. Beneath his soft-spoken exterior lay a strategist who managed dual power centres and kept governance steady amid turbulence.
Neerja Chowdhury’s book reveals that, despite their differing temperaments, every Prime Minister was a political player at heart. They navigated crises, managed and massaged egos, and made hard choices. How Prime Ministers Decide is thus not just political history; it is an incisive study of power, personality, and the perpetual chess game of Indian politics.
"How Prime Ministers Decide"
by #NeerjaChowdhury
This must read book is a masterful exploration of the political instincts, personalities, and decision-making styles of six Indian Prime Ministers who shaped the present times of our nation!
Drawing upon decades of journalistic experience and rare insider access, Chowdhury offers a compelling narrative that goes beyond mere political chronicle, delving into the psychology of leadership and the intricate web of power politics that shaped modern India.
Each #PrimeMinister in the book is portrayed not just as a policymaker but as a strategist navigating extraordinary challenges. #IndiraGandhi, for instance, is depicted as an astute and ruthless political operator who wielded power with an iron hand. When faced with crises, she demonstrated unmatched political acumen, often blurring the line between governance and control. Her decisions, though controversial, reflected her deep understanding of power dynamics.
#RajivGandhi, in contrast, emerges as a reluctant leader propelled into office by tragedy. Despite his inexperience, he displayed remarkable vision in technology and foreign policy but was eventually undone by political naivety and misplaced trust. Chowdhury captures his struggle to balance idealism with realpolitik, highlighting how he, too, resorted to political maneuvering to preserve authority.
#VPSingh’s tenure stands out for moral conviction and his decision to implement the #MandalCommission report that shook the nation and reshaped Indian politics, forever. Yet, it also reveals the paradox of power: Singh’s political survival depended on the very caste dynamics he sought to transcend.
#PVNarasimhaRao’s portrait is one of quiet brilliance. In the aftermath of economic collapse and political instability, Rao used his understated intellect to usher in liberalisation, while deftly managing a fragile coalition. His political shrewdness lay in appearing passive while steering momentous change.
#AtalBihariVajpayee, charismatic and poetic, is shown balancing ideology with pragmatism. Whether it was conducting nuclear tests or seeking peace with Pakistan, Vajpayee played politics with finesse and displayed firmness when necessary, conciliatory when expedient.
Finally, Dr. #ManmohanSingh, the technocrat-PM, is portrayed as the reluctant politician who mastered survival through silence. Beneath his soft-spoken exterior lay a strategist who managed dual power centres and kept governance steady amid turbulence.
Neerja Chowdhury’s book reveals that, despite their differing temperaments, every Prime Minister was a political player at heart. They navigated crises, managed and massaged egos, and made hard choices. How Prime Ministers Decide is thus not just political history; it is an incisive study of power, personality, and the perpetual chess game of Indian politics.
July 14, 2025
“Gandhi had known—and Nehru and Patel knew—that they would need to move in step to steer a vast, vibrant, and diverse nation like India, with ethnic, religious, caste, and linguistic differences of a kind that did not exist anywhere else in the world—a challenge that remains as formidable today as it was in their time. Personifying India’s plural ethos, Nehru and Patel showed that it was possible for two divergent strands of thinking to coexist and collaborate for a national cause. They discovered that power is most secure when it is shared, especially with those who act as a sounding board rather than an echo chamber. It is a lesson that India, and its leadership, should not forget.”
This powerful reflection perfectly sets the tone for Neerja Chowdhury’s How Prime Ministers Decide, a masterful exploration of leadership, politics, and decision-making in India.
India is an incredibly complex country, and its political life mirrors that complexity. Chowdhury does a brilliant job analyzing India’s prime ministers through the lens of six historic decisions, showing how personal styles, political pressures, and moral dilemmas shaped their choices. The book is not just about war rooms and policy papers—it’s about the human side of leadership.
Here’s what each chapter explores:
✅ Indira Gandhi: Her stunning political comeback after the Emergency, marked by careful strategy and resilience.
✅ Rajiv Gandhi: His handling of the Shah Bano case and the Babri Masjid issue, revealing the delicate balancing act between secular ideals and religious pressures.
✅ V. P. Singh: The Mandal Commission decision, a turning point that reshaped caste politics in India.
✅ P. V. Narasimha Rao: Managing the Babri Masjid crisis and nearly taking India to the nuclear brink.
✅ Atal Bihari Vajpayee: The nuclear tests and Kargil War, showing his shift from poet-politician to decisive leader.
✅ Manmohan Singh: His resolve to push the India–US nuclear deal through fierce political opposition.
As someone who has followed Indian politics closely, I was surprised by how many new details, anecdotes, and insider perspectives this book offered. It reaffirmed something often said about India: you can never fully know it or its nuances. That applies just as much to its political history.
Chowdhury’s decades of reporting give her unique access, and it shows. She captures not only the big moments but also the quiet calculations, the tensions in the room, and the personalities behind the headlines. The result is an absolutely stunning read.
Highly recommended for anyone even remotely interested in Indian politics, governance, or leadership. This book is sharp, insightful, and deeply engaging—a real treat for political enthusiasts.
August 7, 2023
In her groundbreaking book, "How Prime Ministers Decide," Neerja Chowdhury delves into the captivating world of political leadership, offering readers an in-depth analysis of the decision-making processes of some of the most influential figures in Indian politics. Chowdhury's work is an enlightening journey that sheds light on the complexities of governance, revealing the inner workings of prime ministers' minds as they navigate the corridors of power.
The author's meticulous research and insightful interviews with former prime ministers have resulted in a captivating narrative that captures the essence of political decision-making. Chowdhury's storytelling prowess ensures that readers are not merely presented with dry facts, but are taken on a compelling journey through the political landscape of India.
One of the book's most commendable aspects is Chowdhury's ability to remain neutral and impartial throughout, allowing readers to form their own judgments about the leaders she portrays. By presenting the successes and failures of different prime ministers, she provides a balanced perspective that doesn't shy away from complexities or controversies.
The book masterfully addresses the multifaceted factors that influence a prime minister's decisions, from geopolitical challenges to domestic issues and personal convictions. Readers gain a profound understanding of the pressures and responsibilities that come with the highest office in the land, as well as the intricate dance between ideology, pragmatism, and public opinion that every leader must perform.
Chowdhury's writing style is accessible and engaging, making even complex political scenarios easy to comprehend. Her prose flows effortlessly, captivating both political enthusiasts and casual readers alike. The book successfully avoids excessive jargon, ensuring that it remains accessible to a wide audience without compromising on its depth and sophistication.
In conclusion, "How Prime Ministers Decide" is an invaluable addition to the realm of political literature. Neerja Chowdhury's thorough research, insightful analysis, and unbiased approach offer readers an unparalleled glimpse into the minds of India's prime ministers. The book stands as a testament to the intricate art of governance and decision-making, making it a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the inner workings of political leadership. Whether you are a student of politics or simply curious about the dynamics of power, this book will undoubtedly leave you enriched and enlightened.
The author's meticulous research and insightful interviews with former prime ministers have resulted in a captivating narrative that captures the essence of political decision-making. Chowdhury's storytelling prowess ensures that readers are not merely presented with dry facts, but are taken on a compelling journey through the political landscape of India.
One of the book's most commendable aspects is Chowdhury's ability to remain neutral and impartial throughout, allowing readers to form their own judgments about the leaders she portrays. By presenting the successes and failures of different prime ministers, she provides a balanced perspective that doesn't shy away from complexities or controversies.
The book masterfully addresses the multifaceted factors that influence a prime minister's decisions, from geopolitical challenges to domestic issues and personal convictions. Readers gain a profound understanding of the pressures and responsibilities that come with the highest office in the land, as well as the intricate dance between ideology, pragmatism, and public opinion that every leader must perform.
Chowdhury's writing style is accessible and engaging, making even complex political scenarios easy to comprehend. Her prose flows effortlessly, captivating both political enthusiasts and casual readers alike. The book successfully avoids excessive jargon, ensuring that it remains accessible to a wide audience without compromising on its depth and sophistication.
In conclusion, "How Prime Ministers Decide" is an invaluable addition to the realm of political literature. Neerja Chowdhury's thorough research, insightful analysis, and unbiased approach offer readers an unparalleled glimpse into the minds of India's prime ministers. The book stands as a testament to the intricate art of governance and decision-making, making it a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the inner workings of political leadership. Whether you are a student of politics or simply curious about the dynamics of power, this book will undoubtedly leave you enriched and enlightened.
May 19, 2024
Prime Minister is the top decision-maker in India. Each major decision taken by PM will impact crores of people. Neerja Chowdhury's book attempts to give insights into the decision-making process at the top echelon of power.
The prologue discusses the Prime Minister's Office, the bureaucratic structure that's close to the PM, and traces the transformations it underwent from Jawaharlal Nehru to Narendra Modi. The core of the book is divided into six chapters, one for each Prime Minister. Every chapter follows the same narrative structure; a personal and political background of the given PM, the political context of the issue at focus, the probable causes that led the PM to make the decision, and the aftermath of it. The narrative jumps back and forth in time for the convenience of narration.
The first chapter which discusses Indira Gandhi's comeback after the defeat in the 1977 elections read like a political thriller and was my personal favorite. This is followed by Rajiv Gandhi's term and his handling of the Shah Bano case. VP Singhs' implementation of the Mandal Commission report and Narasimha Rao's curious actions around the Babri Masjid demolition are discussed in the following chapters. The final two chapters deals with the complete history of India's Nuclear Program in which A B Vajpayee's decision to conduct tests in 1998 and Dr. Manmohan Singh's signing of Civil Nuclear deal with USA are explained in detail.
One can identify common features that influence politicians' decision-making process; electoral imperatives, self-preservation instinct, and a desire to outmaneuver the opponents. Neerja concludes the narrative with two points, that politicians prioritse short-term outcomes over long-term ones and that power sharing is necessary to balance interests in a diverse country like India.
The narration is rich with interesting anecdotes that the writer picked up due to her access as a journalist with many powerful leaders. However, those stay on the periphery and the emphasis is strictly on details and rational conclusions rather than speculation and dramatisation. This is a good read to understand the inside world of Indian politics, even accessible to those readers with limited background knowledge.
The prologue discusses the Prime Minister's Office, the bureaucratic structure that's close to the PM, and traces the transformations it underwent from Jawaharlal Nehru to Narendra Modi. The core of the book is divided into six chapters, one for each Prime Minister. Every chapter follows the same narrative structure; a personal and political background of the given PM, the political context of the issue at focus, the probable causes that led the PM to make the decision, and the aftermath of it. The narrative jumps back and forth in time for the convenience of narration.
The first chapter which discusses Indira Gandhi's comeback after the defeat in the 1977 elections read like a political thriller and was my personal favorite. This is followed by Rajiv Gandhi's term and his handling of the Shah Bano case. VP Singhs' implementation of the Mandal Commission report and Narasimha Rao's curious actions around the Babri Masjid demolition are discussed in the following chapters. The final two chapters deals with the complete history of India's Nuclear Program in which A B Vajpayee's decision to conduct tests in 1998 and Dr. Manmohan Singh's signing of Civil Nuclear deal with USA are explained in detail.
One can identify common features that influence politicians' decision-making process; electoral imperatives, self-preservation instinct, and a desire to outmaneuver the opponents. Neerja concludes the narrative with two points, that politicians prioritse short-term outcomes over long-term ones and that power sharing is necessary to balance interests in a diverse country like India.
The narration is rich with interesting anecdotes that the writer picked up due to her access as a journalist with many powerful leaders. However, those stay on the periphery and the emphasis is strictly on details and rational conclusions rather than speculation and dramatisation. This is a good read to understand the inside world of Indian politics, even accessible to those readers with limited background knowledge.
August 17, 2023
Neerja Chowdhury's book, "How Prime Ministers Decide," transcends the boundaries of mere historical retelling, offering readers an enthralling exploration of India's political landscape through a series of pivotal decisions that have shaped its trajectory.
Chowdhury's astute analysis revolves around six landmark decisions, each a turning point in India's contemporary history. With meticulous research and skillful narration, she navigates through the labyrinthine corridors of power, unraveling the strategies that propelled Indira Gandhi's resurgence in 1980 after the post-Emergency setback. Equally captivating is her examination of Rajiv Gandhi's fateful misjudgment in the Shah Bano case, a momentous incident that still resonates in debates on religion and gender.
The author's exploration of V. P. Singh's astute implementation of the Mandal Commission Report introduces readers to the transformative shift in Indian politics, effectively altering the socio-political landscape. P. V. Narasimha Rao's enigmatic indecision leading to the Babri Masjid demolition unfolds as a masterclass in the delicate balance of power and its consequences.
Chowdhury then delves into Atal Bihari Vajpayee's remarkable transformation from a pacifist to a nuclear advocate, elucidating how geopolitical dynamics precipitated this strategic shift. The narrative culminates with Manmohan Singh's understated yet assertive leadership, as he forges ahead to seal the historic Indo-U.S. nuclear deal, propelling India into a new realm of international engagement.
Supported by extensive interviews and interactions with prime ministers, political stalwarts, bureaucrats, and influencers, the book resonates with a profound authenticity. The insights gleaned from four decades of high-level reporting resonate throughout the narrative, offering a panoramic view of India's political evolution.
Chowdhury's storytelling prowess and analytical finesse engage readers.This book serves as an indispensable repository for those seeking a comprehensive, multidimensional understanding of modern Indian governance, redefining the contours of prime ministerial leadership and its impact on the nation.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Chowdhury's astute analysis revolves around six landmark decisions, each a turning point in India's contemporary history. With meticulous research and skillful narration, she navigates through the labyrinthine corridors of power, unraveling the strategies that propelled Indira Gandhi's resurgence in 1980 after the post-Emergency setback. Equally captivating is her examination of Rajiv Gandhi's fateful misjudgment in the Shah Bano case, a momentous incident that still resonates in debates on religion and gender.
The author's exploration of V. P. Singh's astute implementation of the Mandal Commission Report introduces readers to the transformative shift in Indian politics, effectively altering the socio-political landscape. P. V. Narasimha Rao's enigmatic indecision leading to the Babri Masjid demolition unfolds as a masterclass in the delicate balance of power and its consequences.
Chowdhury then delves into Atal Bihari Vajpayee's remarkable transformation from a pacifist to a nuclear advocate, elucidating how geopolitical dynamics precipitated this strategic shift. The narrative culminates with Manmohan Singh's understated yet assertive leadership, as he forges ahead to seal the historic Indo-U.S. nuclear deal, propelling India into a new realm of international engagement.
Supported by extensive interviews and interactions with prime ministers, political stalwarts, bureaucrats, and influencers, the book resonates with a profound authenticity. The insights gleaned from four decades of high-level reporting resonate throughout the narrative, offering a panoramic view of India's political evolution.
Chowdhury's storytelling prowess and analytical finesse engage readers.This book serves as an indispensable repository for those seeking a comprehensive, multidimensional understanding of modern Indian governance, redefining the contours of prime ministerial leadership and its impact on the nation.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
November 27, 2025
Vinod Pande, revenue secretary in VP Singh's government, had a picture of a fish in his office. After every conversation where the PM would urge him to catch "bigger fish", he would return to his office and draw a bigger fish around the one he'd drawn earlier!
*How Prime Ministers Decide* - I have been wanting to read it since it came out a couple of years ago. Even now, it took me a while to start reading it and then a couple of months to finish.
It's not that the book is not gripping - it is - but with too many facts and names, it can be a bit of a mental overload.
Having said that, it is most definitely a 5 pointer!
It's divided into 6 chapters that go deep into the tenures of 6 of India's 14 Prime Ministers, stitching together a cohesive arc of their life and times in the hot seat. Each chapter is structured around one key decision the PM took that changed the country, for better or for worse.
Kudos to Neerja C for bringing these stories alive so well - not only do we get to know the deep political context, and events leading up to decisions taken, but also character portraits of the people involved - a big cast. It reads like a thriller cum biography, and as author - even though politically neutral - Neerja brings in a point of view, subtly so - which lends the book gravitas.
Many things surprised me, Indira Gandhi's Hindu phase and the support of the RSS in her 1980 win, Vajpayee's cross-party friendships and his unapologetic personal relationships, VP Singh's uprightness, PV Narsimha's erudition but equally his dithering during key moments when the country needed him, Manmohan Singh's dynamic with Sonia Gandhi but most importantly, his championing of the India-US civil nuclear deal and the underlying dynamic with George Bush that propelled it into existence.
She ends with a beautiful story about Nehru and Sardar Patel. This book can leave one disillusioned with the way decisions are taken, short-sightedly, for electoral gains, but Neerja manages to infuse hope in the manner in which it ends.
I am still processing it, but I urge everyone interested in Indian politics, or even high-stake decision making to read it.
*How Prime Ministers Decide* - I have been wanting to read it since it came out a couple of years ago. Even now, it took me a while to start reading it and then a couple of months to finish.
It's not that the book is not gripping - it is - but with too many facts and names, it can be a bit of a mental overload.
Having said that, it is most definitely a 5 pointer!
It's divided into 6 chapters that go deep into the tenures of 6 of India's 14 Prime Ministers, stitching together a cohesive arc of their life and times in the hot seat. Each chapter is structured around one key decision the PM took that changed the country, for better or for worse.
Kudos to Neerja C for bringing these stories alive so well - not only do we get to know the deep political context, and events leading up to decisions taken, but also character portraits of the people involved - a big cast. It reads like a thriller cum biography, and as author - even though politically neutral - Neerja brings in a point of view, subtly so - which lends the book gravitas.
Many things surprised me, Indira Gandhi's Hindu phase and the support of the RSS in her 1980 win, Vajpayee's cross-party friendships and his unapologetic personal relationships, VP Singh's uprightness, PV Narsimha's erudition but equally his dithering during key moments when the country needed him, Manmohan Singh's dynamic with Sonia Gandhi but most importantly, his championing of the India-US civil nuclear deal and the underlying dynamic with George Bush that propelled it into existence.
She ends with a beautiful story about Nehru and Sardar Patel. This book can leave one disillusioned with the way decisions are taken, short-sightedly, for electoral gains, but Neerja manages to infuse hope in the manner in which it ends.
I am still processing it, but I urge everyone interested in Indian politics, or even high-stake decision making to read it.
August 15, 2023
"How Prime Ministers Decide" by Neerja Chowdhury offers an engrossing and revealing exploration of pivotal political decisions that have left an indelible mark on India's history. Drawing on her extensive experience as an award-winning journalist and political commentator, the author delves beyond the superficial headlines, presenting a thought-provoking analysis of the decision-making processes of India's prime ministers.
The book's narrative journey commences with Indira Gandhi's strategic maneuvers to regain power in the aftermath of the 1977 Emergency, showcasing how political resilience can change the course of history. Rajiv Gandhi's missteps in handling the Shah Bano case underscore the complex interplay between political choices, societal dynamics, and judicial decisions. V. P. Singh's reliance on the Mandal Commission Report, while aimed at preserving his government, exposed the intricate threads of caste-based politics and altered the nation's political landscape.
The author further examines P. V. Narasimha Rao's nuanced indecision that led to the Babri Masjid's demolition, revealing the fine line between leadership and indecisiveness in moments of crisis. Atal Bihari Vajpayee's transformation from a pacifist leader to a proponent of nuclear testing mirrors the influence of evolving geopolitical scenarios on leaders' choices. Finally, the book delves into Manmohan Singh's unlikely ascent to historic achievement, navigating internal opposition and international dynamics to seal the India-U.S. nuclear deal.
What sets "How Prime Ministers Decide" apart is the meticulous research. Relying on extensive interviews with key political figures, bureaucrats, policymakers, and even the lesser-known "fixers," the book captures an unparalleled range of perspectives. This breadth of insight grants readers an intimate view into the complexities of decision-making within the political establishment.
The book's narrative journey commences with Indira Gandhi's strategic maneuvers to regain power in the aftermath of the 1977 Emergency, showcasing how political resilience can change the course of history. Rajiv Gandhi's missteps in handling the Shah Bano case underscore the complex interplay between political choices, societal dynamics, and judicial decisions. V. P. Singh's reliance on the Mandal Commission Report, while aimed at preserving his government, exposed the intricate threads of caste-based politics and altered the nation's political landscape.
The author further examines P. V. Narasimha Rao's nuanced indecision that led to the Babri Masjid's demolition, revealing the fine line between leadership and indecisiveness in moments of crisis. Atal Bihari Vajpayee's transformation from a pacifist leader to a proponent of nuclear testing mirrors the influence of evolving geopolitical scenarios on leaders' choices. Finally, the book delves into Manmohan Singh's unlikely ascent to historic achievement, navigating internal opposition and international dynamics to seal the India-U.S. nuclear deal.
What sets "How Prime Ministers Decide" apart is the meticulous research. Relying on extensive interviews with key political figures, bureaucrats, policymakers, and even the lesser-known "fixers," the book captures an unparalleled range of perspectives. This breadth of insight grants readers an intimate view into the complexities of decision-making within the political establishment.
August 5, 2023
In the meticulously researched and thought-provoking book,How Prime Ministers Decide, author Neerja Chowdhury takes readers on a riveting journey through India's post-independence history, analyzing some of the most crucial political decisions that have shaped the nation's destiny. With profound insights and a compelling narrative, the book examines pivotal moments that have significantly impacted India's socio-political landscape.
Drawing from extensive research and interviews with key political figures, Neerja delves into the diverse operating styles of India's prime ministers, offering readers invaluable insights into the nuances of leadership at the highest echelons of power. In exploring prime ministers' operating styles, the book successfully captures the essence of their leadership tenures and their impact on India's domestic and foreign policies. Readers gain a deep understanding of the challenges each leader faced, the strategies they employed, and the legacies they left behind.
This book provides a comprehensive analysis of several crucial decisions taken by the Indian prime minister. The book offers multiple perspectives, a more in-depth exploration of the socio-economic consequences of these decisions. This book serves as an essential resource for anyone interested in the dynamic tapestry of India's political landscape and its evolving identity on the world stage.
Drawing from extensive research and interviews with key political figures, Neerja delves into the diverse operating styles of India's prime ministers, offering readers invaluable insights into the nuances of leadership at the highest echelons of power. In exploring prime ministers' operating styles, the book successfully captures the essence of their leadership tenures and their impact on India's domestic and foreign policies. Readers gain a deep understanding of the challenges each leader faced, the strategies they employed, and the legacies they left behind.
This book provides a comprehensive analysis of several crucial decisions taken by the Indian prime minister. The book offers multiple perspectives, a more in-depth exploration of the socio-economic consequences of these decisions. This book serves as an essential resource for anyone interested in the dynamic tapestry of India's political landscape and its evolving identity on the world stage.
August 6, 2024
Hooter; Sharing the inner workings of every Indian PM till Manmohan Singh on the biggest challenges / wins attributed to them
The book is a pretty well researched collective of every Prime Minister till Manmohan Singh - the prevailing circumstances in which they came to power, the other players in the field, the run up to a major decision / event / win they had that has sorta defined them in the annals of history. This could have been extremely dry but she does a good job of setting the narrative through conversations and interviews which make you feel you are part of the conversation as the historical situation unravels in front of you. From Manmohan's camaraderie with George Bush and the tensions with Sonia Gandhi to Vajpayee's relationship with Narasimha Rao and L K Advani to the Pokhran tests and the fight for peace with Pakistan including how V P Singh's Mandal move and its impact that continues to resonate in India. The Gandhian family gets most of the coverage in this book from Nehru, Indira, Sonia, Rajiv, Sanjay and Rahul getting time as major movers and shakers in a lot of political decisions that took place whether in power or not.
History often gets painted black and white in our books but when viewed through the lens of the present - there are a lot more shades at play that lead to those outcomes and Neerja does a great job at delivering the same.
The book is a pretty well researched collective of every Prime Minister till Manmohan Singh - the prevailing circumstances in which they came to power, the other players in the field, the run up to a major decision / event / win they had that has sorta defined them in the annals of history. This could have been extremely dry but she does a good job of setting the narrative through conversations and interviews which make you feel you are part of the conversation as the historical situation unravels in front of you. From Manmohan's camaraderie with George Bush and the tensions with Sonia Gandhi to Vajpayee's relationship with Narasimha Rao and L K Advani to the Pokhran tests and the fight for peace with Pakistan including how V P Singh's Mandal move and its impact that continues to resonate in India. The Gandhian family gets most of the coverage in this book from Nehru, Indira, Sonia, Rajiv, Sanjay and Rahul getting time as major movers and shakers in a lot of political decisions that took place whether in power or not.
History often gets painted black and white in our books but when viewed through the lens of the present - there are a lot more shades at play that lead to those outcomes and Neerja does a great job at delivering the same.
June 1, 2025
Neerja Chowdhury’s How Prime Ministers Decide is a deeply engaging, behind-the-scenes chronicle of Indian political history, viewed through the political lives of six Prime Ministers—Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, V.P. Singh, Narasimha Rao, Vajpayee, and Manmohan Singh. Spanning nearly four decades, this is a sweeping portrait of power, personality, and the delicate machinery of Indian democracy.
What makes this book stand out is its dual narrative. On one hand, it details momentous decisions like the Emergency, the Mandal Commission implementation, economic liberalization, and the Indo-U.S. nuclear deal. On the other, it brings alive the colorful, complex personalities behind those decisions through vivid anecdotes, personal letters, and behind-closed-doors conversations.
The book doesn’t overlook the bureaucracy too. Sometimes rightfully critiqued as the enforcers of the "deep state," Indian bureaucrats get their due credit here. Key advisors and civil servants like P.N. Haksar, Brajesh Mishra, and Naresh Chandra all figure prominently showing how their influence quietly shaped India's trajectory.
With the pace and drama of a political thriller, this could easily translate into a riveting multi-part series for Netflix. For anyone interested in Indian politics, this won't disappoint
What makes this book stand out is its dual narrative. On one hand, it details momentous decisions like the Emergency, the Mandal Commission implementation, economic liberalization, and the Indo-U.S. nuclear deal. On the other, it brings alive the colorful, complex personalities behind those decisions through vivid anecdotes, personal letters, and behind-closed-doors conversations.
The book doesn’t overlook the bureaucracy too. Sometimes rightfully critiqued as the enforcers of the "deep state," Indian bureaucrats get their due credit here. Key advisors and civil servants like P.N. Haksar, Brajesh Mishra, and Naresh Chandra all figure prominently showing how their influence quietly shaped India's trajectory.
With the pace and drama of a political thriller, this could easily translate into a riveting multi-part series for Netflix. For anyone interested in Indian politics, this won't disappoint
October 15, 2023
This book by veteran journalist Neeraja Chowdhary is very interesting. It is a written contemporary history of the country. It is also brief biography of important players in the country’s political space since 1970s. It also shows that most of the decisions at highest level are made with short term objectives and are not driven by long term strategy. May be India US nuclear pact can be counted as the one which came out of the conviction of the then PM MMS. Also another action of Pokhran 2 can be categorised as long term decision. Others like shah Bano or opening up of ram Lala temple or mandal report are all based on absolutely short term fire fight modes.
This book brings humane side of the PMs and also the role of fate in making of the people as pm. Rao was almost retired when he was made PM. MMS again owes his rise to Sonia since was least harmful and he didn’t disappoint her except India US deal. He abrogated all powers of PM to Sonia and governance to Mukherjee.
Author seems to be biased towards Congress and its PMs. Sometimes the content is shallow and writes widely available stories. The book bares the hunger for power among most politicians.
Overall I liked to read the book and recommend for its insight into the working of politics in the country at deeper level.
This book brings humane side of the PMs and also the role of fate in making of the people as pm. Rao was almost retired when he was made PM. MMS again owes his rise to Sonia since was least harmful and he didn’t disappoint her except India US deal. He abrogated all powers of PM to Sonia and governance to Mukherjee.
Author seems to be biased towards Congress and its PMs. Sometimes the content is shallow and writes widely available stories. The book bares the hunger for power among most politicians.
Overall I liked to read the book and recommend for its insight into the working of politics in the country at deeper level.
August 17, 2023
BOOK REVIEW
How Prime Ministers decide is writtten by senior journalist Neerja Chowdhury. The book is the result of the multiple exclusive interviews she had with the prime ministers, important political ministers, bureaucrats and policy makers during her time.
The book has been written as a journal. It gives an insight about the role of prime minister while they were in power. How they worked and took decision about challenging situations during their term and how their decision has affected millions of people then.
Our perception is very different from the reality. The author has been closely associated to people around the prime ministers. She has deep knowledge about the workings of each prime minister.
The book is worth reading and helps us to gather as to how our government and political leaders worked from time to time giving a definite shape to the history of India. It provides us a clear picture about the political situation of India then.
The book is a result of author's hard work and determination. If you have a keen interest in Indian politics then this book is definitely for you.
How Prime Ministers decide is writtten by senior journalist Neerja Chowdhury. The book is the result of the multiple exclusive interviews she had with the prime ministers, important political ministers, bureaucrats and policy makers during her time.
The book has been written as a journal. It gives an insight about the role of prime minister while they were in power. How they worked and took decision about challenging situations during their term and how their decision has affected millions of people then.
Our perception is very different from the reality. The author has been closely associated to people around the prime ministers. She has deep knowledge about the workings of each prime minister.
The book is worth reading and helps us to gather as to how our government and political leaders worked from time to time giving a definite shape to the history of India. It provides us a clear picture about the political situation of India then.
The book is a result of author's hard work and determination. If you have a keen interest in Indian politics then this book is definitely for you.
April 3, 2025
In her book, ‘How Prime Ministers Decide?’, veteran journalist Neerja Chouwdhury explores, well, the question in the title – by closely following the journey of six prime ministers of India and trying to breakdown 6 consequential decisions each of them took during their tenures.
The questions themselves make the book interesting as they cover key milestones in India’s political history –
Why did Indira Gandhi impose the emergency and what led her to call back elections?
How did the progressive Rajiv Gandhi come to communalize Indian polity?
What led to V.P. Singh‘s Mandal gambit which fundamentally altered political power structures?
What Narasimha Rao did and did not do to prevent the demolition of the Babri Masjid?
Why did Atal Bihari Vajpayee decide to take India nuclear?
How did Manmohan Singh reverse decades of Indian ambivalence to the USA?
Through her own observations in her decades long journalistic career and other first-hand accounts – she makes a very readable book for anyone interested in Indian politics
Full review: https://theworldincultures.com/400-ho...
The questions themselves make the book interesting as they cover key milestones in India’s political history –
Why did Indira Gandhi impose the emergency and what led her to call back elections?
How did the progressive Rajiv Gandhi come to communalize Indian polity?
What led to V.P. Singh‘s Mandal gambit which fundamentally altered political power structures?
What Narasimha Rao did and did not do to prevent the demolition of the Babri Masjid?
Why did Atal Bihari Vajpayee decide to take India nuclear?
How did Manmohan Singh reverse decades of Indian ambivalence to the USA?
Through her own observations in her decades long journalistic career and other first-hand accounts – she makes a very readable book for anyone interested in Indian politics
Full review: https://theworldincultures.com/400-ho...
August 6, 2023
What’s most alluring? Power, of course. But what's even more fascinating than power? The people those who wield it. And in Indian landscape, politicians have indomitable power. How Prime Ministers Decide is an account of these powerful politicians and leaders.
Beginning from the Gandhis, including Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, extending to the years of VP Singh and P Narasimha Rao and ending with the reign of Atal Bihari Vajpayee and as recent as Manmohan Singh, this book covers decades and along with that, the scandals and major events that dotted these decades.
How Indira Gandhi got rid of a rival by using the scandals of his son, how Sonia Gandhi decided to give up the chair, how Manmohan Singh signed historic nuclear deal with the US, how Rao wished a temple in Ayodhya it's all here.
It's a fascinating account of the stories and anecdotes of the people with and behind power. And there can be nothing more intoxicating than that.
Beginning from the Gandhis, including Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, extending to the years of VP Singh and P Narasimha Rao and ending with the reign of Atal Bihari Vajpayee and as recent as Manmohan Singh, this book covers decades and along with that, the scandals and major events that dotted these decades.
How Indira Gandhi got rid of a rival by using the scandals of his son, how Sonia Gandhi decided to give up the chair, how Manmohan Singh signed historic nuclear deal with the US, how Rao wished a temple in Ayodhya it's all here.
It's a fascinating account of the stories and anecdotes of the people with and behind power. And there can be nothing more intoxicating than that.
September 2, 2023
The author thoroughly explains the Prime Minister's role and their influence on constitutional and state bodies. This comprehensive analysis lays the groundwork for understanding the actions of Prime Ministers during their terms. Neerja Chowdhury, a distinguished and award-winning journalist, presents insights from four decades of research into how Prime Ministers have shaped the nation.
The book covers the period from Indira Gandhi to Dr. Manmohan Singh. It not only examines their official roles but also delves into their personal lives and how those aspects affected their political significance.
This book highlights the tenures and interviews of six Prime Ministers and their work within the Prime Minister's Secretariat and the Prime Minister's Office. It explores the criteria for maintaining the democratic system in this vast nation, considering both valuable and indecisive factors that have influenced the country's history.
The book covers the period from Indira Gandhi to Dr. Manmohan Singh. It not only examines their official roles but also delves into their personal lives and how those aspects affected their political significance.
This book highlights the tenures and interviews of six Prime Ministers and their work within the Prime Minister's Secretariat and the Prime Minister's Office. It explores the criteria for maintaining the democratic system in this vast nation, considering both valuable and indecisive factors that have influenced the country's history.
April 4, 2025
This book is huge. It is the biggest book I have read till date, took me almost 3 months to finish it but it was fully paisa wasool. I feel like I learnt and understood so much like never before. It reads like a thriller.
There might be multiple other books on Post-Independence history of India and I happen to have only read this one book yet on the topic but I would still claim this is one of the best.
This book will give you a better understanding of the functioning of the Indian Democracy and society. How many a PMs actually feel lonely to how much impact their friends and family have on them.
Although currently our democracy and institutions are facing threats this book gives hope. Would strongly recommend this book. If anyone wants personal notes that I made on this book, do let me know :)
I will be looking out for Neerja Chowdhary's other stuff. Also want to read "India after Gandhi" sometime.
There might be multiple other books on Post-Independence history of India and I happen to have only read this one book yet on the topic but I would still claim this is one of the best.
This book will give you a better understanding of the functioning of the Indian Democracy and society. How many a PMs actually feel lonely to how much impact their friends and family have on them.
Although currently our democracy and institutions are facing threats this book gives hope. Would strongly recommend this book. If anyone wants personal notes that I made on this book, do let me know :)
I will be looking out for Neerja Chowdhary's other stuff. Also want to read "India after Gandhi" sometime.
August 12, 2023
"How Prime Ministers Decide" by Neerja Chowdhury presents a comprehensive analysis of India's political landscape, spotlighting crucial decisions that have shaped the nation's trajectory. Through interviews and meticulous research, the book uncovers the strategies and motives behind pivotal choices made by prime ministers. Spanning from Indira Gandhi's 1980 return to power strategy after post-Emergency defeat to Rajiv Gandhi's decisions following the Shah Bano case, each chapter sheds light on key moments in Indian politics. The book also dissects V. P. Singh's implementation of the Mandal Commission Report, P. V. Narasimha Rao's handling of the Babri Masjid demolition, Atal Bihari Vajpayee's nuclear policy shift, and Manmohan Singh's groundbreaking US nuclear deal. Chowdhury's forty years of reporting culminate in a captivating and insightful exploration of modern Indian politics.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews