The upcoming biography, 'Pranab, My Father: A Daughter Remembers', offers a captivating glimpse into the life and career of Pranab Mukherjee, India's 13th President. Authored by his daughter, classical dancer Sharmishtha Mukherjee, the book unveils various facets of his journey, tracing his origins from a humble village in West Bengal's Birbhum district to the zenith of a roller-coaster career.
A distinctive feature of the biography is its reliance on Mukherjee's personal diaries, providing candid insights and reflections from the statesman. It delves into Mukherjee's advice to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging acknowledgment of the contributions made by Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi. Drawing from Mukherjee's diaries and personal conversations, the book unravels intriguing details, including his aspiration for the prime ministerial role, hindered by the challenge of earning Sonia Gandhi's complete trust.
The biography presents an intimate portrayal of the Nehru-Gandhi family's personality cult, Rahul Gandhi's political journey, noted for its lack of charisma and political acumen, and Mamata Banerjee's opposition to Mukherjee's presidential candidacy.
A striking element of the book is the depiction of the father-daughter bond between Pranab Mukherjee and Sharmishtha. It portrays Mukherjee not only as a dedicated statesman but also as 'Baba', the diligent worker, history enthusiast, and religiously devout father who shared stories and discussions at family dinners without imposing his faith.
Described as a "sweeping, multigenerational narrative," the biography promises to traverse the trajectory from a flickering lamp in a remote village to the grandeur of India's political capital. It sheds light on Mukherjee's tenure across pivotal ministries like Finance, Defence, External Affairs, and Commerce, capturing his 23-year tenure in the Congress Working Committee.
This highly anticipated biography is poised to offer readers an enriched understanding of Pranab Mukherjee's life, unveiling layers of his persona, aspirations, and experiences that shaped his remarkable journey, despite not attaining the prime ministerial office.
(With Agency Inputs)
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