Author: Javier Moro
I read this book in Spanish as it was originally written by a Spanish author. However, there is an English version of this book called: “The Red Sari”.
This book is based on the true events of the Nehru-Gandhi family in India. Nonetheless, the author clarifies at the beginning of the book that it is a dramatized biography of Sonia Gandhi.
Personally, I enjoyed this book. It is written in a very beautiful manner that captured me right away. For being a history book is very easy to read and follow. I believe, this has been a good introduction for me about India’s recent history and politics as it is narrated in an interesting way. However, bear in mind that you might have to do some additional research for the full picture, as the author had no collaboration or inputs from the Gandhi family.
The book presents Sonia Gandhi’s life, an Italian girl that falls madly in love with an Indian boy, Rajiv Gandhi, which happened to be a member of the most powerful family in India at the time. Both families were against their union, but when they decided to get married and Sonia moved to India, they respected their decision.
Then the story introduces Indira Gandhi, her mother-in-law, and narrates the years she led India as prime minister. She is an inspiring character. A strong-minded woman that has a tenacious view as a politician but at home is a loving and caring mother and grandmother. She adopted Sonia and made her feel that India was her home.
The best part of this story for me is how the author portrays Sonia’s fascinating tale and transformation. From a shy girl that hates being the center of attention to a confident woman that becomes a politician out of love for her late husband. A life that she didn’t choose but it appears was her destiny.
My auntie recommended me this book when I went to visit her at the beginning of the year and I ignored it for months. Finally, I decided to give it a try and I am so happy I did. I don’t usually read historical books but this one managed to keep history interesting. In my opinion, it is worth reading if you enjoy this kind of book. Yet, understanding that it doesn’t represent the truth completely accurately as the author includes his interpretations and opinions along the way.
