Today marks the birth anniversary of Indira Gandhi, India’s first and only woman Prime Minister. Born on 19 November 1917 in Allahabad (now Prayagraj), she was the only child of Jawaharlal Nehru and Kamala Nehru. She had a childhood deeply shaped by the freedom struggle and political turbulence around her.
Birthplace of Indira Gandhi
Indira Gandhi was born at Anand Bhavan, the iconic family residence of the Nehru family. Anand Bhavan, owned by her grandfather Motilal Nehru, was a major hub of Indian National Congress activities. Her father, Jawaharlal Nehru, went on to become the first Prime Minister of independent India.
Here Are 5 Interesting Facts About Indira Gandhi’s Childhood
1. A Childhood Amid Freedom Struggle
Indira’s parents—Jawaharlal Nehru and Kamala Nehru—along with her grandfather, were deeply involved in the independence movement and were frequently imprisoned. Because of this, she often lived alone at Anand Bhavan with her mother. Indira described her childhood as insecure and lonely.
She received her early education in India and later studied abroad. Beyond academics, she loved adventure—horse riding, trekking, and sports. This courage and independent spirit remained with her throughout life and shaped her political personality.
2. Boycotting British Goods: The Story Of Burning Her Beloved Doll
Influenced by her father’s ideals, young Indira grew up with strong moral and nationalist values. Around the age of five, when the Nehru family decided to boycott British-made goods, Indira burned her favourite British doll as a symbolic act, showing how deeply she understood sacrifice and resolve even as a child. She later recalled the feeling as though she had “killed someone”.
3. Founder of the ‘Vanar Sena’ at Age 13
At just 13 years old, during the Civil Disobedience Movement, Indira formed a group of children called the ‘Vanar Sena’ (Monkey Brigade). This group delivered messages, made flags, and assisted Congress volunteers in small but important tasks—an early display of her leadership qualities.
4. Learning Through Letters From Her Father
While in prison, Jawaharlal Nehru wrote long, insightful letters to young Indira about world history, civilizations, science, and culture. These letters were later published as “Letters from a Father to His Daughter” and “Glimpses of World History.”
Through these letters, Indira developed a deep understanding of history, politics, and the English language.
5. The Name ‘Priyadarshini’
Indira also spent a period studying at Rabindranath Tagore’s Visva-Bharati University in Shantiniketan. It was Tagore who gave her the name “Priyadarshini,” meaning “one who is pleasant to look at” or “one who is loved by all.”
