Veteran Congress leader Sonia Gandhi and her daughter, Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi, have offered a rare, nostalgic look into the private life of the Gandhi family by sharing memories of Diwali celebrations held with the late Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. In a video conversation released on social media, the duo revisited a time defined by traditional customs and family gatherings, providing a glimpse into the personal history of one of India's most prominent political households.
Reflecting on her fondness for the festival, Sonia Gandhi described the aesthetic of their former celebrations, noting how the environment was lit by an array of clay diyas. She explained that the festivities typically centered around a Ganesh idol placed at the entrance of their residence, which is still kept in her home today. According to the senior Congress leader, this idol served as the focal point for lighting the first lamp of the occasion. She fondly remarked that the family would line the roof, verandas, and paths with numerous diyas, creating a atmosphere she described as distinctly beautiful.
Priyanka Gandhi highlighted the collaborative nature of their family celebrations, noting that their garden often became a gathering place for people from diverse backgrounds. The conversation also touched upon the family's tradition of purchasing fireworks. Priyanka recalled that her father, Rajiv Gandhi, would personally take them to Chandni Chowk in Old Delhi to select crackers, a memory that underscored the domestic side of the former Prime Minister's life. Sonia added that while she enjoyed traditional sparklers, she was generally less fond of noisier fireworks.
Beyond the lights and festivities, Sonia Gandhi spoke of the environment during that era, specifically recalling the clear blue skies that marked the season, which she noted are rarely seen in present times. The family's commitment to cultural traditions extended to their dining table as well. Sonia mentioned that they always prepared Kashmiri cuisine during the holidays, including a specific sweet rice dish—a culinary practice that she noted the family continues to observe to this day.
These reflections coincide with the upcoming release of Sonia Gandhi’s memoir, titled Belonging: A Journey of Love. The book, which is set for launch on November 10, chronicles her life story, beginning with her upbringing in post-war Italy and her early romance with Rajiv Gandhi while at Cambridge. The memoir also navigates the complex history of her time in India, including the personal tragedies that defined her life, such as the assassinations of her mother-in-law, former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, and her husband, Rajiv Gandhi.
The 79-year-old leader, who remains the longest-serving president in the history of the Congress party, provides an intimate account of her transition into Indian public life through this publication. By weaving together personal narratives of family festivals and significant historical milestones, the memoir aims to offer a comprehensive view of her journey and her enduring relationship with her adopted country.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, these insights into the Gandhi family’s personal traditions offer a poignant look at the human element behind political figures. The memories shared by Sonia and Priyanka Gandhi serve not only as a nostalgic tribute to Rajiv Gandhi but also as a prelude to the detailed autobiographical account arriving later this month.
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