From Sonia Gandhi’s ‘cold fury’ to love for karelas: Close aide shares intimate details
For more than a decade, Archana Dalmiya served as the person in charge of the Grievance Cell of the Congress Party. The position was apolitical but allowed her to witness Sonia Gandhi up close and personal. In her first interview, Archana talks about her association with Sonia. She makes pertinent remarks about Sonia Gandhi’s unknown side which makes her an enigmatic politician.
Q: Is there another side to Sonia Gandhi’s persona?
A: She is a very soft person which is rarely seen in public. She puts up this appearance as a very strong political person but there is side to her which is soft and kind. I have seen lot of that. For example, there was construction taking place at her residence during winters. She saw unclad kids, she immediately asked for shawls and clothes to be provided to them.
Q: Is it correct that certain traditions in her household continue from Indira Gandhi’s time?
A: It is correct. You can see it from the way she dresses. She is meticulous. Her choice of clothes is handloom which has again comes down from Indira Gandhi. Indira would also wear traditional clothes. I have never seen her in chiffons or …read more