Author: Rasheed Kidwai
Publisher: Penguin/Viking
Year: 2003
Language: English
Pages: 240
ISBN/UPC (if available): 0670049557
Description
The rise of Sonia Gandhi to leader of the venerable Congress party is one of the most remarkable stories of recent times, The story of how an apolitical housewife-who was dead set against the entrance of her husband, Rajeev Gandhi, into the political arena- emerged as an astute player of the game herself is one that has never been told. Adding to the enigma is her reserve-she has given very few interviews and remains very private person.
In Sonia: A Biography, journalist Rasheed Kidwai offers the first close look at the person and the transformation that circumstance and tragedy brought about in her. He recounts the period of shock that followed Rajiv Gandhi's assassination, her ascent to leadership in 1998, the revolt by party stalwarts Sharad Pawar and PA Sangma, the controversies she has had to face, and he unravels the true story of her dealings with leaders such as Sitaram Kesri, P V Narasimha Rao, Arjun Singh and others.
Sonia also gives a fascinating insight into the inner world of Congress politics and the frustrations and jealousies that ensue as various leaders, powerful in their own right, vie for the honour of being part of the inner circle. Extensively researched and crisply written, this is a compelling portrayal of a leader who is seen by many as a future Prime Minister.
Contents
Preface
A Tragedy in Sriperumbudur
The Search for a Successor
A Long Journey from Orbassano
A Tale of Two Bahus
The Prime Minister's Wife
A Tug of War
Educating Sonia
Sonia Takes Over the Congress
The Favoured Few
Sonia's Faith
The New Gener