Sonia Gandhi Details Political Entry in New Memoir

Sonia Gandhi, the longest-serving president of the Indian National Congress, detailed her internal struggle and eventual decision to enter politics in her new memoir, Belonging: A Journey of Love. Gandhi describes a period of intense conflict during the late 1990s, sparked by factional disputes within the Congress party and disappointing election results.

Despite a personal dislike for politics and fierce objections from her children, Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi, who feared for her safety, Gandhi sought guidance through the Bhagavad Gita. Under the tutelage of Professor Vachaspati Upadhyaya, she found resolution in the Gita's message to perform one's dharma without regard for the outcome.

This philosophical realization led her to accept the leadership of the Congress party. Gandhi states she took this step to protect India's pluralistic ethos and honor the sacrifices of her husband, Rajiv Gandhi, and mother-in-law, Indira Gandhi.