The rise of Sonia Gandhi to leader of the venerable Congress party is one of the most remarkable stories of recent times, even in the unpredictable world of Indian politics. The story of how an apolitical housewife-who was dead set against the entrance of her husband, Rajiv 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 a 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 P.A. 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.
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