Sonia Gandhi’s recently published memoir, ‘Belonging: A Journey Of Love’, recounts her interactions with various global leaders, including former US President Bill Clinton. In her narrative, she describes a reception held in Clinton’s honour during his visit to India in 2000. At that time, the Monica Lewinsky scandal had receded somewhat from public discourse. However, Gandhi notes that Clinton’s past behaviours were still evident, as she observed him occasionally surveying the more attractive women present at the event.

During the reception, hosted by then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Gandhi recalls her meeting with Clinton, who was accompanied by his daughter, Chelsea. She describes him as friendly and confident, eager to share his views on the Kashmir conflict, which he termed a ‘nuclear flashpoint’ and ‘one of the most dangerous places on earth’. Gandhi felt that he was more interested in expressing his opinions than listening to their perspectives.

Encounters with Nicolas Sarkozy and Carla Bruni

In her memoir, Sonia Gandhi also reflects on a meeting with former French President Nicolas Sarkozy during his visit to India in 2008. Sarkozy attended the event without his partner, Carla Bruni, reportedly due to advice against bringing her since they were not married at the time. At a banquet, the wife of then Vice President Mohammad Hamid Ansari engaged Sarkozy in conversation about his marriage plans, to which he responded with enthusiasm, despite messaging Bruni on his phone throughout the discussion.

Gandhi later encountered Sarkozy and Bruni at a private dinner hosted by then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. By this time, the couple had married, and Gandhi describes Bruni as elegant and graceful. However, she notes that Sarkozy dominated the conversation, sharing his views on India in a manner that seemed dismissive of Singh’s experience and knowledge.

Memories of Princess Diana and the British Royal Family

Sonia Gandhi reminisces about her interactions with Princess Diana, highlighting the long-standing friendship between the British royal family and her own. She recalls attending Diana’s wedding to Prince Charles in 1981 and notes that by the time of their visit to India in 1992, the couple’s marriage appeared to be troubled. Gandhi describes the striking appearance of Diana, who was dressed in a red and purple ensemble, yet seemed melancholic during their meeting.

During a visit to the Gandhis’ residence, Diana interacted with Gandhi’s family, including her mother, who spoke only Italian. When Diana attempted to greet Gandhi’s mother in Italian, it created a moment of warmth that endeared her to the family. Gandhi recalls Diana’s charm and the genuine connection they shared, which included a farewell wave as the royal couple departed.

Gandhi’s encounters with Diana continued in London, where they met for tea. Their final meeting occurred at a hair salon, where Gandhi attempted to greet Diana with a note. Despite a minor mishap in her message, the two shared a brief conversation, marking their last interaction. Gandhi reflects on the scrutiny Diana faced during her life, expressing empathy for her struggles despite the privileges she held.

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