Biography of Indian leaders that are sure to inspire you!
In a literary world full of captivating stories and compelling characters born out of writers’ imagination, biographies stand out for offering an intimate and raw glimpse into the real lives of extraordinary individuals.
Biographies & autobiographies, as a genre, are factual accounts of the lives of people with interesting stories, delving into their successes and struggles, tragedies and triumphs, failures and philosophies.
Why read biographies?
- Inspiration: Showcase the power of resilience and determination of role models and leaders who have overcome adversity.
- Perspective: Insights into different eras, cultures, and struggles, broadening our horizons and fostering empathy.
- Life Lessons: Valuable lessons that can be applied to our own lives, guiding us in our personal and professional journeys.
Here’s a handpicked selection of biographies that shed light on the lives of prominent Indian leaders.
Mahatma Gandhi’s autobiography is a timeless classic that chronicles his life from childhood to 1921. It was initially written and published in his journal Navjivan, at the insistence of his close aides who requested him to explain the ideologies behind his public campaigns. The book provides deep insights into the personal and spiritual evolution of the Mahatma.
This work remains a significant and revered part of India’s literary and historical heritage. In 1999, the book was designated as one of the 100 Best Spiritual Books of the 20th Century by a committee of global spiritual and religious authorities.
Published in 2013, this inspiring autobiography of India’s renowned scientist and former President, offers a compelling account of how a simple child from Rameshwaram went on to become the President of the world’s largest democracy.
The book takes readers on a candid journey, exploring his humble beginnings, his family and the people who influenced him. A large part of the book deals with Dr.Kalam’s work in the India’s space program and the nitty-gritties of working on developing the first space vehicle.
Pupul Jayakar‘s biography offers a deep dive into the complex life of Indira Gandhi, one of India’s most influential political leaders. It reveals not just her political persona but also her thoughts, emotions, and relationships, uncovering the many personalities behind one of twentieth century’s most remarkable women.
Jayakar’s empathetic yet unbiased portrayal provides startling insights, including her hates and prejudices, her insights and her faults, her loves and emotional entanglements.
The biography traces the remarkable life of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar from his birth into a marginalized community to becoming a significant figure in India’s struggle for social justice, and his later years until his death.
Shashi Tharoor‘s lucid storytelling highlights Ambedkar’s battles against discrimination and his pivotal role in crafting India’s visionary Constitution. Tharoor masterfully depicts Ambedkar’s relentless efforts to make untouchability illegal, his conflicts with the prominent political and intellectual figures of his time, including Gandhi and Nehru.
The biography of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, written by Sushil Kapoor, traces the life of this distinguished Indian barrister and statesman, a key leader in the Indian National Congress and one of the founding fathers of the Republic of India.
Known as the “Sardar”, Patel’s early years in the countryside of Gujarat, to his rise to leadership in the Indian National Congress, his involvement in elections, rebellions, and the Quit India movement, are all explored in detail, offering a complete picture of the “Iron Man of India”.
