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Indira Gandhi: A Biography
Indira Gandhi's life spanned over two-thirds of a century. By the time of her brutal assassination in 1984, she had established herself as the most significant political leader India had seen since the death of her father, Jawaharlal Nehru. In this book, written with the close cooperation of her subject, Pupul Jayakar seeks to uncover the many personalities that lay hidden within Mrs Gandhi. Much more than a political biography, the book reveals the complex personality of Indira Gandhi-her thoughts and feelings, her hates and prejudices, her insights and her faults, her loves and emotional entanglements.Full of startling insights, Indira A Biography paints a magnificent portrait-at once empathetic and unprejudiced-of one of the twentieth century's most remarkable women.
716 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 5, 1992
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September 16, 2016
18th President of France ,Charles de Gaulle when asked by reporter “What Impression Indira Gandhi made on you?, he replied-
“Those Fragile shoulders on which the huge destiny of India rests, and they don’t shrink from the burden.”
After reading Katherine frank’s biography on Indira Gandhi I was very much entice to read Pupul Jaykar’s biography on this enigmatic women. Pupul Jayakar had a close relationship with three prime ministers: Jawaharlal Nehru, his daughter Indira Gandhi and her son Rajiv Gandhi. She later served as cultural adviser to Indira and Rajiv Gandhi, confirming her preeminence in cultural matters. Being a close friend to Indira Gandhi, Jaykar’s biography gives you all the opportunity to peep in Indira’s life and know her like never before.
Indira was product of many cultures. Her close association with the freedom struggle and stalwarts of independence movement had molded her life. In many ways she was a reflection of her father’s mind. Her early upbringing and her father’s interest expressed with such limpidity in his letters to her gave her a love of adventure, fearlessness, an inbuilt sense of secular; it also awakened live curiosity and constant search for new frontiers. Her years in England and her association with Feroz Gandhi’s left wing friends, journalists and political thinker had given her a radical thinking. She was a rebel, anti traditional and anti establishment but a natural consciousness kept her away from left commitments. Astrology, prognostication, ritual, superstition have little place in her cautiousness. Her alone year in Leysin had encouraged her to observe, to be silent and let the seasons roll by. But in spite of her early exposure to intellectual and powerful activities, she had lived within the confines of a society, which hemmed her in, gave her little opportunity to reach out, and explore the art or investigate a life of mind.
Throughout her political life Indira Gandhi rarely forgot that she was living and creating history, it was a sense her father had transmitted to her. Her ability to make tough choices, take the hard gamble and stand unmoved before the hostile crowd was astonishing. Her charm, her stamina her 1980 comeback, her fortitude when she lost a son-Sanjay, too is recorded. She was an independent woman. She was no one’s and no super powers stooge.
Unlike Kathrine Frank ,who shows you personal life of Indira and narrates Indira more as a person involving all close people of Indira Gandhi, Jaykar gives you minute detail of her political life, understanding of her decisions, her transformation from shy and reserved daughter to the ruthless politician. Jaykar accounts very less pages on Ms.Gandhi’s Personal life, she consciously keep it conceal. Book will not disappoint you, rather make you respect Tigress Of India a bit more. Happy Reading!!
“Those Fragile shoulders on which the huge destiny of India rests, and they don’t shrink from the burden.”
After reading Katherine frank’s biography on Indira Gandhi I was very much entice to read Pupul Jaykar’s biography on this enigmatic women. Pupul Jayakar had a close relationship with three prime ministers: Jawaharlal Nehru, his daughter Indira Gandhi and her son Rajiv Gandhi. She later served as cultural adviser to Indira and Rajiv Gandhi, confirming her preeminence in cultural matters. Being a close friend to Indira Gandhi, Jaykar’s biography gives you all the opportunity to peep in Indira’s life and know her like never before.
Indira was product of many cultures. Her close association with the freedom struggle and stalwarts of independence movement had molded her life. In many ways she was a reflection of her father’s mind. Her early upbringing and her father’s interest expressed with such limpidity in his letters to her gave her a love of adventure, fearlessness, an inbuilt sense of secular; it also awakened live curiosity and constant search for new frontiers. Her years in England and her association with Feroz Gandhi’s left wing friends, journalists and political thinker had given her a radical thinking. She was a rebel, anti traditional and anti establishment but a natural consciousness kept her away from left commitments. Astrology, prognostication, ritual, superstition have little place in her cautiousness. Her alone year in Leysin had encouraged her to observe, to be silent and let the seasons roll by. But in spite of her early exposure to intellectual and powerful activities, she had lived within the confines of a society, which hemmed her in, gave her little opportunity to reach out, and explore the art or investigate a life of mind.
Throughout her political life Indira Gandhi rarely forgot that she was living and creating history, it was a sense her father had transmitted to her. Her ability to make tough choices, take the hard gamble and stand unmoved before the hostile crowd was astonishing. Her charm, her stamina her 1980 comeback, her fortitude when she lost a son-Sanjay, too is recorded. She was an independent woman. She was no one’s and no super powers stooge.
Unlike Kathrine Frank ,who shows you personal life of Indira and narrates Indira more as a person involving all close people of Indira Gandhi, Jaykar gives you minute detail of her political life, understanding of her decisions, her transformation from shy and reserved daughter to the ruthless politician. Jaykar accounts very less pages on Ms.Gandhi’s Personal life, she consciously keep it conceal. Book will not disappoint you, rather make you respect Tigress Of India a bit more. Happy Reading!!
May 6, 2021
Indira Gandhi, Iron lady of India. One of the most powerful leaders the whole world ever witnessed. No such leader alive today in India with such a visionary. Every decision made by Indira, the declaration of emergency, first Nuclear test in India and even the most controversial ‘sterilization’ to reduce the population, everything she did because of her vision to create India a powerful nation. She dreamt of a country without poverty and suffering.
The people of India were weary of slogans, they wanted a government that would provide them jobs and ensure their basic needs at reasonable price. They saw Indira as Goddess Durga who would protect them from demons. And to some extent it was true, she was a Goddess who tried to protect the people of India. But she can’t do anything alone. She needed support, the gruesome power seekers within her party were against the powerful decisions made by Indira.
Her life was full of setbacks and sufferings. She witnessed the loss of her near and dear ones, and at last a bunch of bullets scrambled that awesome personality to death.
The people of India were weary of slogans, they wanted a government that would provide them jobs and ensure their basic needs at reasonable price. They saw Indira as Goddess Durga who would protect them from demons. And to some extent it was true, she was a Goddess who tried to protect the people of India. But she can’t do anything alone. She needed support, the gruesome power seekers within her party were against the powerful decisions made by Indira.
Her life was full of setbacks and sufferings. She witnessed the loss of her near and dear ones, and at last a bunch of bullets scrambled that awesome personality to death.
July 27, 2016
The book provides a great chronology of Indira Gandhi's life - especially her youth. But the author's closeness to Indira leads to limited critical appraisal of Indira's role in the making of modern India and very limited discussion of the policies underlying her (almost) 20 year prime ministership. Worth a read though.
March 28, 2024
I was four when PM Indira Gandhi was brutally assassinated by her own security guards. I grew up listening from the elders in my family that if India were to rise above corruption, poverty and a plethora of other problems that plague the country, an audacious Prime Minister like Indira is needed. Apparently, these remarks left in me an awe inspiring image of our late PM.
As I finish reading “Indira Gandhi: A Biography” by Pupul Jayakar, I feel overwhelmed with emotions. Wary of politics, I was at first reluctant to pick this book (lying in my bookshelf for over two years) up for reading. Jayakar’s special relationship with Mrs. Gandhi gave her a unique insight into her personality. From that vantage point, Pupul paints a magnificent portrait - at once empathetic and unprejudiced - of one of the twentieth century’s most remarkable women.
Born in 1917, Indira Gandhi’s life spanned over two-thirds of a century. The narrative of this book demands a special mention and is worthy of admiration. For someone like me who detests politics, reading this book from cover to cover wouldn’t have been possible without Pupul’s gripping narrative that keeps you hooked as if she were telling a bedtime story. Writing about Mrs. Gandhi (in such minute detail) must have been a herculean task yet Pupul does full justice to it.
Indira Gandhi had once remarked, ‘Silence and the ability to be not drawn into conflict, are the two most formidable weapons a leader must possess’. Mrs. Gandhi possessed these two weapons and used them with such dexterity that left her opponents guessing (her next move); and often caught them unawares whilst she (in the blink of an eye) executed her action plan.
To err is human... is a universal maxim. Leaders no matter how high their stature aren’t immune to making mistakes. Imposing national emergency, relying on her son Sanjay blindfolded (who supervised the forced sterilization under the family planning drive) and Operation Bluestar are some significant events that blotched her political career, and if I may say amassed such high karmic debt, that she had to lay her life to atone herself of these sins (read follies). Nonetheless, leaders like her are seldom born.
A day before her assassination, Mrs. Gandhi was in Orissa. Seeing the ocean of people before her, sensing their hopes, their concerns, their joys and their sorrows, a moment of prophecy entered her (as if she knew that her end was near). She had said, ‘I do not care whether I live or not. I have had a long life and if I am proud of anything it is that I spent the whole of my life in service. I am proud only of this and nothing else. And as long as there is breath in me so long will I continue to serve, and when my life goes I can say that every drop of blood that is in me will give life to India and strengthen it’.
The doom-swept story of Indira Gandhi and her two sons ended on 21-May-1991, when Rajiv Gandhi, Indira’s elder son, former PM and leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, was brutally assassinated at an election meeting to be addressed by him at Sriperumbudur, forty miles away from Madras. I was eleven back then and old enough to feel sad (if not mourn) the death of another charismatic leader.
As I finish reading “Indira Gandhi: A Biography” by Pupul Jayakar, I feel overwhelmed with emotions. Wary of politics, I was at first reluctant to pick this book (lying in my bookshelf for over two years) up for reading. Jayakar’s special relationship with Mrs. Gandhi gave her a unique insight into her personality. From that vantage point, Pupul paints a magnificent portrait - at once empathetic and unprejudiced - of one of the twentieth century’s most remarkable women.
Born in 1917, Indira Gandhi’s life spanned over two-thirds of a century. The narrative of this book demands a special mention and is worthy of admiration. For someone like me who detests politics, reading this book from cover to cover wouldn’t have been possible without Pupul’s gripping narrative that keeps you hooked as if she were telling a bedtime story. Writing about Mrs. Gandhi (in such minute detail) must have been a herculean task yet Pupul does full justice to it.
Indira Gandhi had once remarked, ‘Silence and the ability to be not drawn into conflict, are the two most formidable weapons a leader must possess’. Mrs. Gandhi possessed these two weapons and used them with such dexterity that left her opponents guessing (her next move); and often caught them unawares whilst she (in the blink of an eye) executed her action plan.
To err is human... is a universal maxim. Leaders no matter how high their stature aren’t immune to making mistakes. Imposing national emergency, relying on her son Sanjay blindfolded (who supervised the forced sterilization under the family planning drive) and Operation Bluestar are some significant events that blotched her political career, and if I may say amassed such high karmic debt, that she had to lay her life to atone herself of these sins (read follies). Nonetheless, leaders like her are seldom born.
A day before her assassination, Mrs. Gandhi was in Orissa. Seeing the ocean of people before her, sensing their hopes, their concerns, their joys and their sorrows, a moment of prophecy entered her (as if she knew that her end was near). She had said, ‘I do not care whether I live or not. I have had a long life and if I am proud of anything it is that I spent the whole of my life in service. I am proud only of this and nothing else. And as long as there is breath in me so long will I continue to serve, and when my life goes I can say that every drop of blood that is in me will give life to India and strengthen it’.
The doom-swept story of Indira Gandhi and her two sons ended on 21-May-1991, when Rajiv Gandhi, Indira’s elder son, former PM and leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, was brutally assassinated at an election meeting to be addressed by him at Sriperumbudur, forty miles away from Madras. I was eleven back then and old enough to feel sad (if not mourn) the death of another charismatic leader.
January 24, 2023
A lucid account of the remarkable life of Indira Gandhi. From being called "Gungi Gudiya" by her party members to emerging as the "Iron Lady of India", she was one of the most influential, authoritarian, courageous, and powerful leaders India has ever witnessed in the last century.
October 2, 2020
Ever since I read the biography of P.N. Haksar, who worked as principal secretary of PM Indira Gandhi for a decade, my desire to read about Indira Gandhi intensified further. Jairam Ramesh's account on P.N. Haksar's was about his intertwined life with Indira Gandhi in her personal grief, governance, diplomatic decisions, major policies, speeches and his fallout with her son Sanjay Gandhi. While two other books which focused on the major events which occurred during Indira Gandhi's tenure was Mark Tully's 'Amritsar: Mrs Gandhi's last battle' and Kuldip Nayar's 'Emergency Retold', which almost covered the patches of India's unstable years of democracy. But this book has been written by someone who is considered to be a very close friend of Mrs. G, who later went on to become the cultural advisor under Indira Gandhi's government.
In this book, Pupul Jayakar presented a charming chronology of Indira Gandhi's sixty six years of life, starting from her childhood until her assassination in 1984. In brief, the daughter of India's beloved leader, at her age of twelve started her own organization called the 'vanar sena' (army of monkeys), actively involving in the freedom struggle and assisting her father in drafting the resolution, calling for Purna Swaraj aka complete independence in 1930. After a brief period of schooling in Pune and under Rabindranath Tagore's Shantiniketan, Indira traveled extensively across Europe, pursuing her academics in french and history where she met other compatriots like Haksar, V.K. Krishna Menon, etc. Indira's years right after her father's demise are faced with ruthless political turmoil, leading to split in Congress, the imposition of internal emergency and her mistrust with anyone and everyone around her, except Sanjay Gandhi.
Learning from her father's mistake of aggressive military policy against China, Indira sought a much more ingenious plan of action in tackling the East Pakistan crisis, further gaining accolades even from her opponents for liberating Bangladesh. Though the author tried to skillfully craft the biography in a diplomatic and benevolent way, the undeniable truth is that the years of emergency and its effects on the Indian people can never be articulated in a polished language, no matter how much one try to portray Mrs. G in a good light. After been thrown out of power, Indira Gandhi laid the chess board in front of her imaging herself as a much weaker pawn who had limited moves and meticulously planned her come back by breaking the Janata government from within, after three years, by subsequently winning from Southern constituencies of Chikmagalur in Karnataka and Medak in Andhra Pradesh.
Indira Gandhi's authoritative decision on dismissing the democratically elected Communist government in Kerala or persuading his father to provide asylum to Dalai Lama were the two tales of political naivety in her early years of political career. But, as she navigated through the hard times in politics and life, she grew into an exceptional leader of India, developing solid rapport with global leaders (except for Nixon). As a chairman of Non Alignment Movement (NAM) and Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN), Indira Gandhi called for unified progress, transcending boundaries and conflicts, stressing on disarmament and economic development.
Indira Gandhi dealt with many problems of poverty, drought, famine, sectionalism, the north eastern crisis, incoming refugees, her husband's death in her early life, her son's death at his age of thirty three, the many harassment of opposition and electoral losses. Yet, she stood tall in face of all adversity in a stoic demeanor and courageous attitude.
Overall, the author remained neutral throughout her 500 pages, without being judgmental, many a times providing logical reasons for Indira's actions, keeping it intriguing and engaging for the readers, with her simpler language. The years from 1965 to 1985 are crucial in the years of India's history and this book provides detailed insights on events which shaped India's today. However, if I have to assess and summarize Indira Gandhi as a person, I shall remember her own words:
"My father was a statesman, I am a political woman. My father was a saint. I am not."
In this book, Pupul Jayakar presented a charming chronology of Indira Gandhi's sixty six years of life, starting from her childhood until her assassination in 1984. In brief, the daughter of India's beloved leader, at her age of twelve started her own organization called the 'vanar sena' (army of monkeys), actively involving in the freedom struggle and assisting her father in drafting the resolution, calling for Purna Swaraj aka complete independence in 1930. After a brief period of schooling in Pune and under Rabindranath Tagore's Shantiniketan, Indira traveled extensively across Europe, pursuing her academics in french and history where she met other compatriots like Haksar, V.K. Krishna Menon, etc. Indira's years right after her father's demise are faced with ruthless political turmoil, leading to split in Congress, the imposition of internal emergency and her mistrust with anyone and everyone around her, except Sanjay Gandhi.
Learning from her father's mistake of aggressive military policy against China, Indira sought a much more ingenious plan of action in tackling the East Pakistan crisis, further gaining accolades even from her opponents for liberating Bangladesh. Though the author tried to skillfully craft the biography in a diplomatic and benevolent way, the undeniable truth is that the years of emergency and its effects on the Indian people can never be articulated in a polished language, no matter how much one try to portray Mrs. G in a good light. After been thrown out of power, Indira Gandhi laid the chess board in front of her imaging herself as a much weaker pawn who had limited moves and meticulously planned her come back by breaking the Janata government from within, after three years, by subsequently winning from Southern constituencies of Chikmagalur in Karnataka and Medak in Andhra Pradesh.
Indira Gandhi's authoritative decision on dismissing the democratically elected Communist government in Kerala or persuading his father to provide asylum to Dalai Lama were the two tales of political naivety in her early years of political career. But, as she navigated through the hard times in politics and life, she grew into an exceptional leader of India, developing solid rapport with global leaders (except for Nixon). As a chairman of Non Alignment Movement (NAM) and Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN), Indira Gandhi called for unified progress, transcending boundaries and conflicts, stressing on disarmament and economic development.
Indira Gandhi dealt with many problems of poverty, drought, famine, sectionalism, the north eastern crisis, incoming refugees, her husband's death in her early life, her son's death at his age of thirty three, the many harassment of opposition and electoral losses. Yet, she stood tall in face of all adversity in a stoic demeanor and courageous attitude.
Overall, the author remained neutral throughout her 500 pages, without being judgmental, many a times providing logical reasons for Indira's actions, keeping it intriguing and engaging for the readers, with her simpler language. The years from 1965 to 1985 are crucial in the years of India's history and this book provides detailed insights on events which shaped India's today. However, if I have to assess and summarize Indira Gandhi as a person, I shall remember her own words:
"My father was a statesman, I am a political woman. My father was a saint. I am not."
November 24, 2017
Irrespective of which side of the political spectrum one's loyalties lie, few will disagree that Indira Gandhi is post-independent India's most enigmatic politician. As such, her two most famous biographies (one by Pupul Jaykar and the other by Kathrine Frank) are must reads for all those with an interest in Indian politics/history.
Though Pupul, one of Indira's closest associate has been a little biased to her on a handful of occasions, the book isn't really a hagiography, something you should give her credit for. In fact, the author's close association with the late PM has meant that the book is filled with insights that helps readers deconstruct the real 'Indira' from the many myths and conspiracy theories that usually surround her.
Indira's actions and the reasons behind them during some of the most important events during her tenure as the PM viz the 1971 Bangladesh War, the Emergency & her triumphant return to power in 1980 and Operation Blue Star are well articulated and detailed. However, the best part of the book for me was Indira's personal life - her early days in Anand Bhawan and her relations with its many inmates, her immense love for her mother, her relationship with Feroze Gandhi and the entire Sanjay fiasco.
Though Pupul, one of Indira's closest associate has been a little biased to her on a handful of occasions, the book isn't really a hagiography, something you should give her credit for. In fact, the author's close association with the late PM has meant that the book is filled with insights that helps readers deconstruct the real 'Indira' from the many myths and conspiracy theories that usually surround her.
Indira's actions and the reasons behind them during some of the most important events during her tenure as the PM viz the 1971 Bangladesh War, the Emergency & her triumphant return to power in 1980 and Operation Blue Star are well articulated and detailed. However, the best part of the book for me was Indira's personal life - her early days in Anand Bhawan and her relations with its many inmates, her immense love for her mother, her relationship with Feroze Gandhi and the entire Sanjay fiasco.
October 17, 2020
I am a 90 kid from India. In our high school, it seemed that history of India was over with independence of 1947. I never knew what ensued India after Independence. To me, Indira Gandhi was the Prime Minister of India before I saw 'Pradhanmantari' by Shekhar Kapoor on youtube. That series motivated me to learn about this woman more. In that series, Shekhar Kapoor referenced Pupul book many times when discussing rein of Indira Gandhi.
Before that I never cared to know about this woman, her personality, her contradictions, and her very human life. This book gives a good insight into all those aspects. Since Pupul was her close friend, she maintains her friendship while writing this book also. She doesn't criticize IG but does interrogates her actions and tries to support it with the situations and circumstances that might have existed at that time.
In short, I enjoyed reading this book and learnt some important lessons from IG personality.
Recommended.
Before that I never cared to know about this woman, her personality, her contradictions, and her very human life. This book gives a good insight into all those aspects. Since Pupul was her close friend, she maintains her friendship while writing this book also. She doesn't criticize IG but does interrogates her actions and tries to support it with the situations and circumstances that might have existed at that time.
In short, I enjoyed reading this book and learnt some important lessons from IG personality.
Recommended.
October 15, 2022
Most people know Indira Gandhi the prime minister, but this book goes beyond what newspaper headlines showed, to bring forth a deeply complex character who was a tremendous force in Indian politics. The ups and downs, the rights and wrongs, the hesitancy and decisiveness, are all portrayed in their completeness, a result I believe to be possible because the biography is written by a close friend of the late prime minister. Somehow the author manages to move seamlessly between scenes in the vastly complex developments of post-independence India, while keeping the central character always in focus. If the reader is somehow linked to India or has a curiosity about the holy land, once started this book is hard to put down.
January 19, 2022
3.5
Really enlightening. Learned a lot of things i previously didn't know.
Really enlightening. Learned a lot of things i previously didn't know.
April 4, 2023
One of the best biographies I've ever written. Descriptive, analytical without being judgemental and full of beautiful anecdotes only her closest friends could have been party to.
July 3, 2015
Pupul Jayakar was Indira Gandhi's friend for 30 years. She has written a wonderful book. She draws on her notes of meetings and conversations for this empathetic biography of India's prime minister who was assassinated in 1984. Scanting on political analysis, she offers a vivid, unusually insightful look at the emotional factors that transformed a silent, withdrawn girl into an assured, far-seeing leader who was closely attuned to her country if at times obsessive and arrogant. Indira Gandhi was prepared for leadership by her father, Jawaharlal Nehru. Pupul Jayakar is especially revealing on Indira's unhappy marriage to Feroze Gandhi, on her key role in freeing East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) from West Pakistan's bloody rule and on her relationship with her sons Sanjay, killed in a plane crash in 1980, and Rajiv, assassinated in 1991. A must read for anyone interested in the knowing more about Indira Gandhi. I heartily recommend it.
July 31, 2018
I am not much into reading of biographies or political books but this book was a refreshing blend of both. It attempts to bring into light the life of Indira Gandhi without being too critical or too much in favour with her actions. It is the neutral tone that the book takes which works for me. The uncertainty, the political turmoil in India during the sixties and the seventies is well brought out which lead to the subsequent actions of the Prime Minister. It brings out an interesting glimpse of the various aspects of Indira Gandhi's life and personality which would be hitherto unknown to many.
A page-turner of the first rate, it will keep you hooked till the very end!
A page-turner of the first rate, it will keep you hooked till the very end!
October 4, 2014
One of the few books that portrays Mrs. Gandhi in a positive light. The author is clearly enamoured of her subject and goes to great lengths to defend the indefensible. However, in the process, she does give the reader a peek into the lady's mind. Mrs. Gandhi's was a truly remarkable life and this book does justice to its complexities. Wish Jaykar had left out references to her own work which at times sound like pluging.
January 31, 2025
I have consumed four accounts of Indira Gandhi's Emergency period. The first one was an inspired fiction by Rohinton Mistry A Fine Balance which had an indelible impact on me following which I wrote a short review: Facts fall on you like rain on glass. Stories shatter you from within. And I still hold the same view, after reading the facts mentioned in this biography by Indira's close friend. And because, fiction didn't provide me with facts - and because I have a thirst for both - I watched a detailed YouTube video to understand what lead to the Emergency. Just recently a movie on the same account was released and I watched that too. Even though the movie was one step short of a disaster - saved only by the lead - it generated enough curiosity in me to read Indira's biography.
The book starts in an idyllic manner with a description of the Magh Mela 1917. The author then gives us an account of Indira's childhood and her contribution to the freedom struggle. I like those parts the best when we see Indira as a human being developing herself as a strong force, backed by her father's guidance and his - among other freedom fighters - immense struggle both to free India and to inculcate in his daughter an outward insight to connect with the people, to bring her out from the shadows that Indira found herself retreating into every time some event shook her peace.
There were many aspects of Indira's life which I found myself synonymous with - her hailing from Allahabad, her love for nature, being called gungi gudiya, developing silence as a weapon, her stand on religion, her understanding of 'development', her take on power, her concern for the environment even in the 70s, her desire to preserve the land of myths and stories, and her determination to remain secular till her last breath. These aspects will tilt my judgement of her holding office for almost 16 years as a Prime Minister no matter how much I tell myself that I stand unaffected.
I sympathise with her life, and here the credit goes to the author who so intricately strung with words, her life as the people of India saw and the life which was private to her thoughts. While the book doesn't give much account of the policies brought by Indira in her regime, it talks at length about the Emergency period, her inner struggles with herself and her fears, and the political torment and betrayal that surrounded Indira throughout her regime.
Indira struggled to uplift the underprivileged for which she snatched the privileges of the rich. She struggled to remove fundamentalist forces erupting in a vast demographic of religions, caste, creed and sects. She fought till death to see a united India for which she took drastic steps that struck her back and resulted in her fall. The next time she got up, she lost the edge that set her apart, but remained true to her spirit and fought with whatever left of her until at last her time came and she left for India only her echo - a sound synonymous with India itself.
The epilogue crafted by the author is of another time period describing the same Magh Mela in 1985 and her disappointment in witnessing the vanishing idyll that engulfed the city of Prayag. After 40 years I witness myself with helplessness the loss of that which is essential to the human spirit - the need for stories, culture, myth and mystery, being adulterated in the name of development.
The book starts in an idyllic manner with a description of the Magh Mela 1917. The author then gives us an account of Indira's childhood and her contribution to the freedom struggle. I like those parts the best when we see Indira as a human being developing herself as a strong force, backed by her father's guidance and his - among other freedom fighters - immense struggle both to free India and to inculcate in his daughter an outward insight to connect with the people, to bring her out from the shadows that Indira found herself retreating into every time some event shook her peace.
There were many aspects of Indira's life which I found myself synonymous with - her hailing from Allahabad, her love for nature, being called gungi gudiya, developing silence as a weapon, her stand on religion, her understanding of 'development', her take on power, her concern for the environment even in the 70s, her desire to preserve the land of myths and stories, and her determination to remain secular till her last breath. These aspects will tilt my judgement of her holding office for almost 16 years as a Prime Minister no matter how much I tell myself that I stand unaffected.
I sympathise with her life, and here the credit goes to the author who so intricately strung with words, her life as the people of India saw and the life which was private to her thoughts. While the book doesn't give much account of the policies brought by Indira in her regime, it talks at length about the Emergency period, her inner struggles with herself and her fears, and the political torment and betrayal that surrounded Indira throughout her regime.
Indira struggled to uplift the underprivileged for which she snatched the privileges of the rich. She struggled to remove fundamentalist forces erupting in a vast demographic of religions, caste, creed and sects. She fought till death to see a united India for which she took drastic steps that struck her back and resulted in her fall. The next time she got up, she lost the edge that set her apart, but remained true to her spirit and fought with whatever left of her until at last her time came and she left for India only her echo - a sound synonymous with India itself.
The epilogue crafted by the author is of another time period describing the same Magh Mela in 1985 and her disappointment in witnessing the vanishing idyll that engulfed the city of Prayag. After 40 years I witness myself with helplessness the loss of that which is essential to the human spirit - the need for stories, culture, myth and mystery, being adulterated in the name of development.
August 15, 2023
A Remarkable Transformation: Indira Gandhi's Journey from Gungi Gudiya to Resolute Leader
Pupul Jayakar's biography of Indira Gandhi is a captivating insight into the life of one of India's most iconic and enigmatic leaders. Through meticulous research and an engaging narrative style, Jayakar masterfully unveils the evolution of a young girl into a resolute and powerful prime minister who played a pivotal role in shaping post-independent India.
One of the most striking aspects of this biography is its exploration of Indira Gandhi's character development. From the onset, readers are introduced to a young Indira, depicted as the shy and reserved "Gungi Gudiya." Through Jayakar's adept storytelling, we witness the gradual transformation of this introverted girl into a woman of unshakable determination and strength. It's this evolution that forms the heart of the narrative, underscoring the trials, tribulations, and triumphs that shaped Indira Gandhi's life.
Perhaps the most important aspect of Indira Gandhi's journey was her ability to rise above personal tragedies. Jayakar delves into the heart-wrenching losses that marked Mrs Gandhi's life – the deaths of her parents, her husband, and her son. The author portrays these moments with sensitivity, allowing readers to grasp the profound impact they had on shaping Gandhi's psyche. Her ability to endure such immense personal grief while continuing to serve her nation is a testament to her resilience and commitment.
What truly sets this biography apart is its portrayal of Gandhi's insecurities and failures. Jayakar does not shy away from highlighting the moments of self-doubt and setbacks that punctuated Gandhi's journey. This candid exploration humanizes the Iron Lady of India, rendering her more relatable and inspiring.
The biography paints Gandhi's political trajectory, from her initial entry into politics to her rise to becoming the prime minister. Her meteoric rise after a significant political setback is a testament to her strategic acumen. The fact that she emerged stronger after a fall from grace speaks volumes about her character and leadership.
Lastly, Indira Gandhi's background as part of an affluent and politically influential family only serves to underscore the depth of her personal struggles and the enormity of her achievements. This biography artfully navigates the paradox of her privileged upbringing and the immense responsibility she bore in shaping the destiny of a newly independent nation. Infact because she was from a "Nehru" family, her stakes were high and so was the pressure. She had a lot to lose and the author beautifully captures this.
Things that I think the book lacked:
Few times I felt that the author has run through few deaths like that of Mahatma Gandhi, Firoz Gandhi. I feel the role of these people in Mrs. Gandhi's life was so important that the author didn't do justice to their passing away.
Final Verdict:
A must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complex journey of a woman who transformed from vulnerability to strength and played a crucial role in shaping India's post-independence trajectory.
Pupul Jayakar's biography of Indira Gandhi is a captivating insight into the life of one of India's most iconic and enigmatic leaders. Through meticulous research and an engaging narrative style, Jayakar masterfully unveils the evolution of a young girl into a resolute and powerful prime minister who played a pivotal role in shaping post-independent India.
One of the most striking aspects of this biography is its exploration of Indira Gandhi's character development. From the onset, readers are introduced to a young Indira, depicted as the shy and reserved "Gungi Gudiya." Through Jayakar's adept storytelling, we witness the gradual transformation of this introverted girl into a woman of unshakable determination and strength. It's this evolution that forms the heart of the narrative, underscoring the trials, tribulations, and triumphs that shaped Indira Gandhi's life.
Perhaps the most important aspect of Indira Gandhi's journey was her ability to rise above personal tragedies. Jayakar delves into the heart-wrenching losses that marked Mrs Gandhi's life – the deaths of her parents, her husband, and her son. The author portrays these moments with sensitivity, allowing readers to grasp the profound impact they had on shaping Gandhi's psyche. Her ability to endure such immense personal grief while continuing to serve her nation is a testament to her resilience and commitment.
What truly sets this biography apart is its portrayal of Gandhi's insecurities and failures. Jayakar does not shy away from highlighting the moments of self-doubt and setbacks that punctuated Gandhi's journey. This candid exploration humanizes the Iron Lady of India, rendering her more relatable and inspiring.
The biography paints Gandhi's political trajectory, from her initial entry into politics to her rise to becoming the prime minister. Her meteoric rise after a significant political setback is a testament to her strategic acumen. The fact that she emerged stronger after a fall from grace speaks volumes about her character and leadership.
Lastly, Indira Gandhi's background as part of an affluent and politically influential family only serves to underscore the depth of her personal struggles and the enormity of her achievements. This biography artfully navigates the paradox of her privileged upbringing and the immense responsibility she bore in shaping the destiny of a newly independent nation. Infact because she was from a "Nehru" family, her stakes were high and so was the pressure. She had a lot to lose and the author beautifully captures this.
Things that I think the book lacked:
Few times I felt that the author has run through few deaths like that of Mahatma Gandhi, Firoz Gandhi. I feel the role of these people in Mrs. Gandhi's life was so important that the author didn't do justice to their passing away.
Final Verdict:
A must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complex journey of a woman who transformed from vulnerability to strength and played a crucial role in shaping India's post-independence trajectory.
December 16, 2024
Indira Gandhi: A Biography by Pupul Jayakar
I’ve read many articles and watched several videos about Indira Gandhi, yet I never quite had the full picture of her life. Then I heard Saurabh Dwivedi mention that Pupul Jayakar’s biography of Indira Gandhi is one of the most comprehensive works on her. While the language of the book is a bit challenging for my current level of English, I found it increasingly engaging as I turned the pages.
From Indira’s childhood to the day of her assassination, Pupul Jayakar portrays Indira Gandhi with an intimate and personal touch. As one of Indiraji’s close friends, the author offers rare insights and vivid descriptions that go beyond what is commonly known. The proximity of their relationship gives Pupul an advantage in presenting Indira as a multifaceted individual, rather than just a political figure.
What struck me most is how the book shatters popular myths and misinformation about the Nehru-Gandhi family, such as the claims of their lives being luxurious and devoid of hardship, often propagated by the BJP and other right-wing groups. Pupul highlights the challenges Indira faced during her childhood, including a lonely and emotionally taxing upbringing. Her relationship with father and mother, her time abroad as a student, her controversial marriage to Feroze Gandhi—all are documented with depth and nuance, making the narrative feel as if Indiraji herself had written it.
One of my favorite sections of the book is how Indira tackled the “old guard” of the Congress party after assuming the position of Prime Minister. Her calculated use of silence as a political tool and her ability to turn the tide in her favor exemplify her sharp intellect and resilience. The author also delves into significant episodes such as the Emergency, her subsequent electoral defeat, and her increasing reliance on her son, Sanjay Gandhi.
What most readers may not know is Indira Gandhi’s deep affection for tribal communities and their art. She worked tirelessly for the preservation of Indian culture, environmental conservation, and global peace. Her love for nature was profound, and she drew inspiration from it in both personal and political spheres.
Pupul Jayakar’s biography doesn’t just chronicle Indira’s life—it allows us to understand her complexities, her struggles, and her triumphs. From being a vulnerable child to emerging as one of the most formidable Prime Ministers of India, the book paints a vivid portrait of a woman who was both intensely private and immensely public.
For anyone interested in politics, Indian history, or the life of Indira Gandhi, this biography is a must-read. It not only reveals the human side of Indira Gandhi but also provides a balanced perspective on her controversial tenure as a leader. There is so much to learn and discover in this book—an essential read for anyone looking to truly understand one of India’s most iconic leaders.
I’ve read many articles and watched several videos about Indira Gandhi, yet I never quite had the full picture of her life. Then I heard Saurabh Dwivedi mention that Pupul Jayakar’s biography of Indira Gandhi is one of the most comprehensive works on her. While the language of the book is a bit challenging for my current level of English, I found it increasingly engaging as I turned the pages.
From Indira’s childhood to the day of her assassination, Pupul Jayakar portrays Indira Gandhi with an intimate and personal touch. As one of Indiraji’s close friends, the author offers rare insights and vivid descriptions that go beyond what is commonly known. The proximity of their relationship gives Pupul an advantage in presenting Indira as a multifaceted individual, rather than just a political figure.
What struck me most is how the book shatters popular myths and misinformation about the Nehru-Gandhi family, such as the claims of their lives being luxurious and devoid of hardship, often propagated by the BJP and other right-wing groups. Pupul highlights the challenges Indira faced during her childhood, including a lonely and emotionally taxing upbringing. Her relationship with father and mother, her time abroad as a student, her controversial marriage to Feroze Gandhi—all are documented with depth and nuance, making the narrative feel as if Indiraji herself had written it.
One of my favorite sections of the book is how Indira tackled the “old guard” of the Congress party after assuming the position of Prime Minister. Her calculated use of silence as a political tool and her ability to turn the tide in her favor exemplify her sharp intellect and resilience. The author also delves into significant episodes such as the Emergency, her subsequent electoral defeat, and her increasing reliance on her son, Sanjay Gandhi.
What most readers may not know is Indira Gandhi’s deep affection for tribal communities and their art. She worked tirelessly for the preservation of Indian culture, environmental conservation, and global peace. Her love for nature was profound, and she drew inspiration from it in both personal and political spheres.
Pupul Jayakar’s biography doesn’t just chronicle Indira’s life—it allows us to understand her complexities, her struggles, and her triumphs. From being a vulnerable child to emerging as one of the most formidable Prime Ministers of India, the book paints a vivid portrait of a woman who was both intensely private and immensely public.
For anyone interested in politics, Indian history, or the life of Indira Gandhi, this biography is a must-read. It not only reveals the human side of Indira Gandhi but also provides a balanced perspective on her controversial tenure as a leader. There is so much to learn and discover in this book—an essential read for anyone looking to truly understand one of India’s most iconic leaders.
July 5, 2023
This is not the history that will be taught, this is the history that you'll have to uncover, discover, for the love of it. The subjectivity to the objective history. The story behind the dates. It is not a historical factsheet of events.
It is the unsaid, hidden, personal side of Indira Gandhi showing her love, anger, frustation and other emotions that she kept privy to herself or to her very closed ones. Pupul(author) had been with her through a major part of her life which enabled the author to know and observe her neutrally and naturally with her guards down as and when she did.
We all know what Indira Gandhi is famous and infamous for. You can get the facts and the dates from anywhere. But the book will give you a better understanding of why she did what she did, irrespective of whether it was right or wrong. The book lets you see the colossal Indira Gandhi as any other human being with her own strength and weaknesses.
A great benefit to reading Indira Gandhi is that she falls at a special place in Indian history from where you can trace Indian history from Motilal nehru to Rahul, Priyanka and Varun Gandhi. You read about the times of Motilal and jawaharlal Nehru. You also understand Sanjay-Maneka and Rajiv-Sonia. You also draw about Rahul, Priyanka and Varun. Since the Nehru-Gandhi family played an Important role in india's polity for so long, you get a holistic view of Indian polity spanning generations.
If you are an enthusiast for Modern Indian polity, I would advise you to read it.
It is the unsaid, hidden, personal side of Indira Gandhi showing her love, anger, frustation and other emotions that she kept privy to herself or to her very closed ones. Pupul(author) had been with her through a major part of her life which enabled the author to know and observe her neutrally and naturally with her guards down as and when she did.
We all know what Indira Gandhi is famous and infamous for. You can get the facts and the dates from anywhere. But the book will give you a better understanding of why she did what she did, irrespective of whether it was right or wrong. The book lets you see the colossal Indira Gandhi as any other human being with her own strength and weaknesses.
A great benefit to reading Indira Gandhi is that she falls at a special place in Indian history from where you can trace Indian history from Motilal nehru to Rahul, Priyanka and Varun Gandhi. You read about the times of Motilal and jawaharlal Nehru. You also understand Sanjay-Maneka and Rajiv-Sonia. You also draw about Rahul, Priyanka and Varun. Since the Nehru-Gandhi family played an Important role in india's polity for so long, you get a holistic view of Indian polity spanning generations.
If you are an enthusiast for Modern Indian polity, I would advise you to read it.
April 15, 2021
🍁The book presents factual information, and so can't be called a literary delight per se. But it is an important book and sets the reader thinking about our country's poor state of affairs. It will also help to understand the political journey of our country and how our so called leaders have lost their sense of duty and responsibility over the years. The leaders who fought tooth and nail for independence and worked hard to shape it well after independence were truly made of some rare clay altogether.
🍁 Politics and leadership were in Indira's blood. Brought up in the background of freedom movement and harsh household, she was an introvert child. From a gawky teenager to a hardly noticeable young adult to an iron-willed politician, hers was indeed an hard and evolutionary journey. Whatever may the critics say, she did really love her country and its people, and lived to protect them both in whatever ways possible. As D K Barooah said, " India is Indira and Indira is India".
🍁 Politics and leadership were in Indira's blood. Brought up in the background of freedom movement and harsh household, she was an introvert child. From a gawky teenager to a hardly noticeable young adult to an iron-willed politician, hers was indeed an hard and evolutionary journey. Whatever may the critics say, she did really love her country and its people, and lived to protect them both in whatever ways possible. As D K Barooah said, " India is Indira and Indira is India".
June 11, 2023
Pupuls account of Indira is a close, succinct narration of the 'iron lady', rather a determined and ordinary women with all accompanying imperfections and qualities.
I was spell bound by the part where pupul describes Indira after the death of Sanjay(The spoilt child without any knowledge of the problems of the teeming poor Indian peasantry and others) Pupul writes "At around 5.00 she came and sat with me. For a minute we were alone. She said 'where do i go from here, Pupul? With both her hands she held her stomach close, a gesture I had witnessed amongst the peasant women mourning their dead. The death of a child is a spasm of the womb; it is the womb that cries out; filled with the weight of death, the crucible cracks"
May be the countless prayers of victims of sanjays actions have rained fire on his life. If sanjay had lived on the political landscape of India would have been different.
I was spell bound by the part where pupul describes Indira after the death of Sanjay(The spoilt child without any knowledge of the problems of the teeming poor Indian peasantry and others) Pupul writes "At around 5.00 she came and sat with me. For a minute we were alone. She said 'where do i go from here, Pupul? With both her hands she held her stomach close, a gesture I had witnessed amongst the peasant women mourning their dead. The death of a child is a spasm of the womb; it is the womb that cries out; filled with the weight of death, the crucible cracks"
May be the countless prayers of victims of sanjays actions have rained fire on his life. If sanjay had lived on the political landscape of India would have been different.
January 18, 2020
In today's time when people don't leave any stone unturned to defame Indira Gandhi,it becomes a duty to read about her.
The book traces the life,time and journey of Indira Gandhi right from her birth till her assassination.
The author being very close to the ex Prime Minister,has done a great job. The book throws light on those sides of Indira Gandhi,which are not known to anyone except a few handfuls.
For the people who know Indira Gandhi through WhatsApp messages, Facebook posts and other such media,this book will be an eye opener.
Read this book to know about the lady who took the male dominated arena of Indian politics by storm.
The book traces the life,time and journey of Indira Gandhi right from her birth till her assassination.
The author being very close to the ex Prime Minister,has done a great job. The book throws light on those sides of Indira Gandhi,which are not known to anyone except a few handfuls.
For the people who know Indira Gandhi through WhatsApp messages, Facebook posts and other such media,this book will be an eye opener.
Read this book to know about the lady who took the male dominated arena of Indian politics by storm.
January 21, 2020
A comprehensive look into the life of still the only Female Prime Minister of India till date. Written by Pupul Jaykar who was a close friend of Indira and hence got a close look into her life story . It was amazing to read this book since I have always been wanting to read about the emergency and what exactly brought it on . It provided a close look at what exactly entails about being a Prime Minister and the struggles faced by Indira. Her paranoia that she faced in later life, family struggles all are described in the book. All in all a good read if you want to know about what exactly happened in her reign as PM.
August 19, 2022
A formidable politician, a shrewd statesman, a powerful orator and a head of the state with a deep connection to the people. She had her share of flaws, made some rash decisions which led to disastrous consequences too but had the courage to own them up. She lived an eventful life hemmed with dangers at every corner but did so valiantly. She reigned, stumbled, collapsed, rose and reigned again. No other person might have had a political career as strenuous as she had had. She represented the strength of India to the world on countless occasions. And she did take many marvellous decisions for our country. Indira Gandhi was truly the Iron Lady of India!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 11, 2017
The biography reflects the turmoil Indira undergoes in her personal and political life and her fight against all odds. She stands tall among the top leaders of our country just because of her tough decision making which is unlike the political behaviour exists and in the male dominated country.
A detailed study on the important events like emergency, east Pakistan war etc. would have been a good offering but is difficult to pull off in a single edition.
This is a good biography about Indira Gandhi, a honest effort to portray a person without bias as author being in her close circle.
A detailed study on the important events like emergency, east Pakistan war etc. would have been a good offering but is difficult to pull off in a single edition.
This is a good biography about Indira Gandhi, a honest effort to portray a person without bias as author being in her close circle.
July 15, 2018
Author was Smt. Gandhi's childhood friend and companion in many crisis. Author's views about her somewhat seem biased because of this fact. Tyrannical acts of Indiraji have not been judiciously criticized by author. Definitely, a different side of Indira Gandhi - her relations with Firoz Gandhi, Nehruchacha and her mother Kamlaji have been nicely depicted but issues like horrendous act of imposing emergency and killing democracy by doing so, blunder made by Indiraji in Punjab by creating a Frankenstein's monster-Bhindranwale are not represented properly.
December 6, 2017
From page 1 Indira Gandhi Biography connects to the reader, not just because it is well written because of its timing,placement and historical background of events.The harsh reality that is expose through this biography is that the reaching the peaks of glory and success requires not only determination but a fearless heart and the sense of immense responsibility.Its all about what circumstances demands from us and how we have to interpret them and make a move.And of coarse is a greatest WEAPON.
February 7, 2019
We get a closer look at the life of Indira Gandhi. But, being her friend, was a bit biased. But, on a positive note, whatever conspiracies we have been hearing about her can be put to rest, as she has watched her in close quarters & has been there at the center of many important incidents.
Have heard about other biographies of her. Will have to read that just to compare. All in all, worth a read...
Have heard about other biographies of her. Will have to read that just to compare. All in all, worth a read...
January 3, 2025
Oddly enough, this is the book that rekindled reading for me. I found myself wanting to know what happens next. The book is light on policy but dense with interpersonal interactions between Mrs. Gandhi, the author, and others in the Prime Minister’s sphere. I agree, at times the author has a tangible bias towards her friend, but she clearly states her & Indira’s reasoning for decisions and beliefs.
July 2, 2017
A remarkably candid opinion on the late Prime Minister. It gives great insight into the inner workings of the mind of Indira Priyadarshini Gandhi. However, one must keep in mind that some parts were (deliberately?) glossed over ,such as the events of the Punjab during the 80s . Overall, definitely worth a read.
October 24, 2018
The book provides you great insight into the life of Mrs Gandhi. She’s one person whom I don’t get tired of reading. What a power pack woman !!!
Plus it also make you know what pathetic childhood she had. She was missing love. And even after her marriage she was torn apart with Nehru and Firoze gandhi and after her husband’s death , she could never wear colours.
Plus it also make you know what pathetic childhood she had. She was missing love. And even after her marriage she was torn apart with Nehru and Firoze gandhi and after her husband’s death , she could never wear colours.
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