Indira Gandhi, the Iron lady of Indian politics was the daughter and the only child of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, Joining politics and being part of the political scenario seemed the natural thing for Indira Gandhi considering her highly political background. In 1938, she joined the Congress and was also imprisoned for thirteen months by the British.

She married Feroze Gandhi, a journalist. They had two sons Rajiv and Sanjay. Marriage and family life did not seem to hamper Indira Gandhi's political career in any way. In fact, she continued to support her father who became the Prime Minister after independence.

Indira Gandhi was a supporter of numerous social causes. She was associated with various organisations such as the Central Social Welfare Board, the Congress Working Committee, and the Central Election Committee, and was also the President of the All India Youth Congress from 1956 to 1960.

When Lal Bahadur Shastri was elected as the Prime Minister of India, Indira Gandhi served as the Minister for Information and Broadcasting. Following the sudden death of Lal Bahadur Shastri in January 1966, Indira Gandhi became the President of the Congress Party and thus also the Prime Minister.

During her term she faced severe economic troubles, especially following the war with Pakistan over Bangladesh. She witnessed several demonstrations and protests against her rule. Nevertheless, being a woman of great endurance and political tenacity she faced all the challenges successfully.

On the international front, Indira Gandhi established close relations with the USSR. She was also a fierce spokeswoman for the poor nations. She was assassinated in 1984.

[1917 - 1984]

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