Indira Gandhi, whose life was so closely intertwined with the history and destiny of modern India, will always occupy a very special place in our hearts. As prime minister for sixteen and a half years, she was a visionary leader who strove relentlessly to build a strong, united and secular India. But we remember her equally for her human qualities’her courage and grace, and her compassion for the weak and the disinherited. For millions of people, she remains the very embodiment of India’s indomitable spirit.

This slim volume, brought out on the occasion of Indira Gandhi’s ninetieth birth anniversary, is an excellent introduction to her legacy. The sayings in this book, most of which are taken from her speeches, give a glimpse of the many aspects of her personality how deeply affected she was by the tragic accounts of victims of sectarian violence or natural disasters, the pleasure she derived from the spontaneous remark of a child, the gift of a memento, of little material value, but which she treasured because it was given with love, or the delight of tasting a new dish that was a regional speciality�her wide range of interests; her sensitivity; and her quick mind, which was totally free of pretentiousness and pomposity. Going through these sayings, we are reminded of her breadth of vision, her passion for the people�s welfare, and her eagerness to share her thoughts and ideas with them. Above all, it reflects her dedication to the honour and integrity of India, for which she ultimately laid down her life.