Indira Gandhi

Overview

Indira Priyadarshini Gandhi, born into the Nehru-Gandhi family, was a pivotal figure in Indian politics, serving as Prime Minister for two terms. Her leadership was marked by significant social, economic, and political changes, leaving an undeniable impact on India's trajectory in the 20th century. This timeline highlights key events and periods in her life, from her birth to her tragic assassination, illustrating her complex and controversial legacy.

Main Milestones

Birth in Allahabad

November 19, 1917

Indira Nehru was born in Allahabad to Jawaharlal Nehru, a prominent leader in the Indian independence movement, and Kamala Nehru. Her childhood was deeply influenced by the political activism of her family, exposing her to the struggles and ideals of a nation striving for independence. Growing up in Anand Bhavan, the Nehru family home, she witnessed firsthand the shaping of India's future.

Active Involvement in the Independence Movement

Early 1930s

As a young girl, Indira was actively involved in the Indian independence movement. At the age of 12, she founded the 'Bal Charkha Sangh' to promote the use of homespun cloth (khadi) and later organized the 'Monkey Brigade,' a group of children who helped the Congress party by running errands and providing information. These early experiences instilled in her a deep commitment to public service and the ideals of self-reliance.

Marriage to Feroze Gandhi

1942

Indira married Feroze Gandhi, a Parsi lawyer and journalist who was also involved in the independence movement. Their marriage was initially opposed by her father, Jawaharlal Nehru, due to differences in caste and religion, but he eventually relented. The marriage further solidified Indira's commitment to Indian politics and society, although their relationship would later face its own challenges.

Serving as Nehru's Hostess and Confidante

1947-1964

After India gained independence in 1947, Indira played an increasingly important role as the hostess and confidante of her father, Jawaharlal Nehru, who became the first Prime Minister of India. She accompanied him on numerous foreign trips and gained invaluable experience in international affairs and governance. While not holding an official government position, she was a key advisor and observer of the political landscape.

Becoming Prime Minister

1966

Following the death of Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri in 1966, Indira Gandhi was elected as the leader of the Congress party and became Prime Minister of India. Her selection was partly due to her lineage and perceived malleability, but she soon proved to be a strong and decisive leader, surprising many who underestimated her capabilities.

Indo-Pakistani War and Creation of Bangladesh

1971

Indira Gandhi's leadership was crucial during the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War. Her decisive support for the Mukti Bahini, the liberation movement in East Pakistan, led to the creation of Bangladesh. This victory significantly enhanced India's regional power and solidified Indira Gandhi's position as a strong and capable leader.

The Emergency

1975-1977

Facing political unrest and accusations of electoral malpractice, Indira Gandhi declared a state of emergency in 1975. This period was marked by the suspension of civil liberties, censorship of the press, and the imprisonment of political opponents. The Emergency is a highly controversial period in Indian history and severely damaged Indira Gandhi's reputation, leading to her electoral defeat in 1977.

Return to Power

1980

Despite her defeat in 1977, Indira Gandhi successfully campaigned for a return to power in 1980. Riding on a wave of popular discontent with the Janata Party government, she secured a landslide victory, demonstrating her enduring political appeal and resilience.

Operation Blue Star

1984

In 1984, Indira Gandhi ordered Operation Blue Star, a military operation to remove Sikh militants who had taken refuge in the Golden Temple in Amritsar. The operation resulted in significant casualties and damage to the temple, deeply offending many Sikhs and exacerbating tensions between the government and the Sikh community.

Assassination

October 31, 1984

Indira Gandhi was assassinated on October 31, 1984, by her Sikh bodyguards in retaliation for Operation Blue Star. Her assassination triggered widespread anti-Sikh riots across India, resulting in thousands of deaths. Her death marked the end of an era in Indian politics and left a lasting impact on the country's social and political landscape.