Indira Gandhi stands out as an iconic figure in Indian history. As the only woman to serve as India’s Prime Minister, her leadership continues to spark interest today. Discover unforgettable moments, surprising childhood stories, and bold decisions from the remarkable life of Indira Gandhi.
Indira Gandhi
Indira Gandhi became the first and only female Prime Minister of India, holding office for nearly 16 years.
She was the daughter of Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first Prime Minister, and Kamala Nehru.
Her political journey began early; at age 12, Indira led the Vanar Sena, a children’s group supporting India’s independence movement.
She studied at prestigious institutions in Switzerland, India, and at Oxford University in England.
Indira Gandhi married Feroze Gandhi in 1942 and had two sons: Rajiv and Sanjay.
She joined the Congress Party in 1938 and quickly rose through its ranks, becoming party president twice.
Indira led India to victory in the 1971 war with Pakistan, which resulted in the creation of Bangladesh.
She introduced the Green Revolution to India, boosting food production and transforming Indian agriculture.
Indira Gandhi nationalized 14 major Indian banks in 1969, strengthening the country’s economy.
In 1975, after being convicted of election violations, she declared a state of Emergency, which lasted nearly 2 years.
During the Emergency, she suspended civil liberties and censored the press, leading to major controversy.
Indira Gandhi received the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honour, in 1972.
She survived brief imprisonment for political reasons in the late 1970s but returned triumphantly to power in 1980.
Indira faced significant challenges, including a major Sikh separatist crisis, leading to Operation Blue Star in 1984.
Sadly, her life ended when two of her own bodyguards assassinated her, changing the course of Indian politics forever.
