Indira Gandhi Former Prime Minister of India Biography, height, weight, Age , wife, children and family and many more,

Biography of Indira Gandhi: India’s First Female Prime Minister

Introduction

Indira Priyadarshini Gandhi, India’s first and only female Prime Minister, was a towering figure in Indian politics. Known for her unwavering determination, decisive leadership, and impactful policies, she left an indelible mark on the nation and the world. Her life story is a blend of triumphs, challenges, and controversies that continue to inspire and intrigue people globally.

Personal Information

Full Name: Indira Priyadarshini Gandhi
Birth Date: November 19, 1917
Birthplace: Allahabad, United Provinces, British India (now Uttar Pradesh, India)
Death Date: October 31, 1984
Cause of Death: Assassinated by her bodyguards
Height: Approximately 5 feet 4 inches (163 cm)
Weight: Around 55 kg (121 lbs)
Zodiac Sign: Scorpio
Nationality: Indian

Family and Early Life

Father: Jawaharlal Nehru (India’s first Prime Minister)
Mother: Kamala Nehru
Siblings: None (only child)
Husband: Feroze Gandhi (married in 1942)
Children: Rajiv Gandhi (later Prime Minister of India) and Sanjay Gandhi
Grandchildren: Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, and Varun Gandhi

Indira grew up in a politically charged environment. Being the daughter of Jawaharlal Nehru, she witnessed India’s freedom struggle closely. Her formative years were deeply influenced by her father’s political ideologies and her mother’s resilience.

Education

Indira received her early education at prominent institutions, including Shantiniketan (founded by Rabindranath Tagore) and later attended Somerville College, Oxford. Although she didn’t complete her degree due to health issues, her exposure to global cultures and politics enriched her worldview.

Professional Life

Entry into Politics

Indira Gandhi's political journey began as an assistant to her father, Jawaharlal Nehru, during his tenure as Prime Minister. She was appointed the President of the Indian National Congress in 1959, marking her formal entry into active politics.

Prime Minister of India

Indira Gandhi became the Prime Minister of India in 1966 after the sudden death of Lal Bahadur Shastri. She served four terms in total (1966–77, 1980–84).

Key Achievements:

Green Revolution:
Indira’s government introduced agricultural reforms that made India self-sufficient in food production, a landmark achievement in combating hunger.
1971 Bangladesh Liberation War:
Under her leadership, India supported the creation of Bangladesh, successfully defeating Pakistan in the 1971 war.
Nuclear Program:
She authorized India’s first nuclear test, Smiling Buddha, in 1974, establishing the nation as a nuclear power.
Nationalization of Banks:
In 1969, she nationalized 14 major banks, ensuring credit accessibility for the rural population.

Controversies:

The Emergency (1975–77):
Indira declared a state of emergency, curtailing civil liberties and imposing press censorship. This period remains one of the most debated chapters in Indian history.
Operation Blue Star:
In 1984, Indira ordered military action to remove armed separatists from the Golden Temple in Amritsar, which led to her assassination.

Personal Life

Indira Gandhi’s marriage to Feroze Gandhi was marked by both love and challenges. Feroze supported her early political endeavors but preferred to stay out of the limelight. The couple faced personal difficulties but remained committed to their family and children.

She was deeply attached to her sons, Rajiv and Sanjay. The untimely death of Sanjay Gandhi in a plane crash in 1980 profoundly affected her.

Legacy

Indira Gandhi’s leadership style earned her the title “Iron Lady of India.” She was known for her bold decisions, whether it was confronting international powers or initiating transformative policies.

Her assassination on October 31, 1984, by her Sikh bodyguards following Operation Blue Star, led to widespread anti-Sikh riots in India. Despite controversies, her contributions to India’s growth and global standing are widely recognized.

Awards and Honors

Bharat Ratna (India’s highest civilian award) in 1971
Lenin Peace Prize (Soviet Union) in 1984
Numerous international accolades for her leadership

Interesting Facts About Indira Gandhi

First Female Prime Minister:
Indira was the first woman to serve as Prime Minister in India and the second globally.
Nature Lover:
She was deeply passionate about environmental conservation and initiated Project Tiger in 1973 to save India’s dwindling tiger population.
Fluent in Multiple Languages:
She was proficient in English, Hindi, and several Indian regional languages, reflecting her versatile personality.
Personal Struggles:
She faced numerous personal tragedies, including the loss of her husband, younger son, and later, her own life.
Collector of Art:
Indira was an art enthusiast and supported several cultural initiatives during her tenure.

Indira Gandhi remains a symbol of strength, resilience, and determination. Her life continues to inspire debates and admiration across the globe, making her one of the most iconic leaders in modern history.

Some more Lesser Known and Interesting Facts About Indira Gandhi

A Reluctant Politician:
Indira Gandhi initially had no intention of entering politics. She once described politics as a "dreary and unattractive" profession. Her entry was more circumstantial due to her father's influence and the nation's needs.
The Origin of Her Surname:
Despite being from the Nehru family, she adopted the surname Gandhi after marrying Feroze Gandhi. However, she has no relation to Mahatma Gandhi.
An Unconventional Childhood:
Indira created a “monkey brigade” as a child during the Indian independence movement. This group of children secretly carried messages for freedom fighters.
Connection with Rabindranath Tagore:
Indira studied at Shantiniketan, an institution founded by Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. He gave her the name Priyadarshini, which she later adopted as her middle name.
First Female Defense Minister of India:
Alongside being the Prime Minister, she temporarily held the portfolio of Defense Minister, making her the first woman to do so in India.
Time Magazine Recognition:
Indira Gandhi was featured on the cover of Time Magazine in 1966, soon after becoming Prime Minister. She was also named Woman of the Year by the magazine in 1976.
An Accomplished Orator:
Indira was known for her eloquence and powerful speeches. She addressed audiences in multiple languages, adapting to the cultural and linguistic diversity of India.
A Global Figure:
During her tenure, Indira Gandhi was regarded as one of the most influential women leaders in the world. She had strong relations with the Soviet Union and other global powers, ensuring India’s strategic importance on the world stage.
Environmental Pioneer:
She played a pivotal role in global environmental discussions. Indira addressed the first United Nations Conference on the Human Environment in Stockholm in 1972, highlighting India’s commitment to sustainability.
Personal Tragedies:
Indira’s life was marked by personal losses. Her mother, Kamala Nehru, passed away when she was young, and she also endured the premature deaths of her husband, Feroze Gandhi, and son, Sanjay Gandhi.
Introduction of Family Planning:
She initiated India’s first large-scale family planning program, which was controversial yet transformative in addressing India’s population growth.
Cultural Patronage:
Indira was deeply invested in preserving Indian culture. She established the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) to promote art and cultural heritage.
A Passion for Music:
Indira was fond of Indian classical music and often invited renowned musicians to perform at official events and gatherings.
Her Belief in Astrology:
Despite being a modern leader, she reportedly consulted astrologers for advice, especially during critical political and personal moments.
A Hands-On Leader:
Known for her meticulous approach, Indira Gandhi personally reviewed files and government policies, often working late into the night.
Her Love for Gardening:
Indira had a green thumb and was passionate about gardening. She took a personal interest in the landscaping of the Prime Minister's residence, now known as Teen Murti Bhavan.
A Literary Side:
She maintained a personal diary where she recorded her thoughts, reflections, and significant events in her life. Her writings offer valuable insights into her personality.
Connection to Wildlife:
She was instrumental in creating several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, emphasizing the need for biodiversity conservation.
Prolific Traveler:
Indira traveled extensively during her tenure, building diplomatic relationships with countries across the globe, including fostering ties with African nations.
Legacy of the Indian Space Program:
She supported the establishment of ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) and encouraged advancements in India’s space technology, leading to the launch of Aryabhata, India’s first satellite.

These facts reveal the multifaceted personality of Indira Gandhi, a leader who left an enduring legacy in Indian and global history.

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