Rahul Gandhi Pays Tribute to Sonia Gandhi Ahead of Memoir Release and Discusses Student Protests

Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi paid an emotional tribute to his mother, Sonia Gandhi, on Thursday, August 20, 2026, marking his father Rajiv Gandhi's birth anniversary by discussing her upcoming memoir. Mr. Gandhi stated that he could imagine his late father smiling and looking down proudly at his mother regarding the book, titled Belonging: A Journey of Love, which is set for release in November. He recalled seeing his parents together more than 35 years ago and praised Sonia Gandhi for facing life with courage and dignity after the assassination of Rajiv Gandhi. He noted that only he and his sister, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, truly understood the difficulties she faced, and expressed pride that her story would be read by millions despite her private nature.

Memoir Details

The upcoming book recounts Sonia Gandhi's journey moving from Italy to India, her marriage to Rajiv Gandhi, and the deaths of Indira Gandhi and Sanjay Gandhi. It also covers her entry into politics following her husband's assassination and her decision to decline the Prime Minister's post in 2004.

Student Protests And Politics

Later in the day at an event marking his father's birth anniversary, Mr. Gandhi addressed a political gathering and stated that the growing expression of students across the country could no longer be suppressed. He called for this student awakening to drive fundamental change, specifically within the education system. He questioned how true swaraj, meaning rule over oneself, could exist alongside an expensive education system, an unfair examination system, and an economy dominated by a small group of people. Furthermore, he criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP-RSS, accusing them of attacking students and marginalising minorities, taking away tribal land, and perpetuating caste oppression.

Context

Rajiv Gandhi's birth anniversary is observed annually on August 20, serving as an occasion for Congress leaders to gather and address political and social issues. Memoir releases by prominent political figures often generate widespread public interest and political discussion in India. The discussion on swaraj and education reflects broader debates on equity and access within the Indian public sphere.