Sonia Gandhi Reflects on Love Story with Rajiv Gandhi in Upcoming Memoir
Sonia Gandhi's Heartfelt Memories
File image of CPP chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Former PM Rajiv Gandhi(Photo: IANS)
New Delhi, Oct 24: Sonia Gandhi, the Chairperson of the Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP), recently shared a nostalgic video on social media, reminiscing about her love story with former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, which began in 1965 at a quaint Greek eatery named The Varsity in Cambridge, England.
In her inaugural post on X, she discussed her forthcoming memoir titled 'Belonging: A Journey of Love', set to be released on November 10. The post included personal anecdotes and cherished memories of her life with Rajiv, along with old photographs that provide a glimpse into their early relationship.
"My journey of love commenced in a small Greek restaurant in Cambridge. Rajiv and I built a world filled with affection, joy, and unforgettable moments. On November 10, I will share that world with you," she expressed.
Sonia fondly recalled their first encounter at the restaurant, highlighting Rajiv's appealing looks and the qualities that drew her to him.
"He was undeniably handsome," she remarked.
She also reflected on the challenges of finding quality food in England at that time, noting the scarcity of restaurants and how she eventually discovered the Greek spot that was popular among Indian and Italian students.
"That was where I met Rajiv; in that very restaurant. From our first meeting, I sensed he was someone I wanted to be with. I later learned he felt the same way. A mutual friend introduced us, and we quickly became friends, attending parties together," Sonia reminisced.
Reflecting on Rajiv's character, she noted that his gentle demeanor made a lasting impression on her from the outset.
"He had a very gentle appearance. While he was certainly attractive, it was his gentleness that truly resonated with me. I will always remember our first meeting," she added.
This post marked Sonia Gandhi's debut on the social media platform X.
Earlier that week, she also made her Instagram debut, where she shared a message introducing her memoir and expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to present its first look to the audience.
"Hello everyone, I am genuinely thankful to share this moment with you: the first look of Belonging: A Journey of Love. It narrates a tale of love, duty, loss, and the quest for belonging. I eagerly anticipate sharing it with you," Sonia wrote in her initial Instagram post, unveiling the book's first look.
In the Instagram video, Sonia is seen receiving the first copies of her memoir and celebrating with her daughter, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, as they share sweets and embrace.
The memoir is scheduled for launch on November 10, with pre-orders already available. It is being published globally by Alfred A. Knopf, with HarperCollins India managing its release in the country.
Spanning 544 pages, the book chronicles Sonia Gandhi's life journey from her childhood in post-war Italy to her relationship with Rajiv Gandhi, detailing the personal tragedies that have influenced her life, including the assassinations of Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi, and her subsequent involvement in Indian politics.