As her memoir Belonging nears its release on November 10, senior Congress leader Sonia Gandhi has revisited memories of falling in love with former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi, recalling their first meeting at a small Greek restaurant in Cambridge, England.
In her debut post on X, Gandhi shared a glimpse into the beginnings of their relationship through a video that appears to be part of a conversation about her book. Seen looking through photographs and responding to questions from an unseen interviewer, Gandhi described Rajiv as very good-looking and gentle, noting that his gentleness was what particularly struck her when they first met.
Recalling how they first met, Gandhi said she had been searching for a place in England where she could find food closer to what she was used to eating, noting that food in England during those days was generally poor and restaurant options were limited compared to today. She said she eventually discovered Varsity Restaurant, a Greek eatery in Cambridge frequented by European and Indian students, and that is where she met Rajiv.
Gandhi said a common friend introduced them, and she felt an immediate connection, realizing almost right away that he was someone she wanted to be with, and learning later that he felt the same way. The two later became friends and spent time together at parties, sightseeing outings, and student gatherings, including a Valentine's party with other students.
In a message accompanying the memoir announcement, Gandhi reflected on the beginning of their relationship, stating that her journey of love began in a small Greek restaurant in Cambridge and noting that she and Rajiv created a world filled with love, laughter, and memories that she will share with the public upon the release of her book on November 10.
Reacting to her debut on the platform, Congress leader Pawan Khera wrote on X that the story of Sonia and Rajiv Gandhi felt like a midsummer night's dream, describing it as beautiful, idyllic, and nearly perfect until it was shattered by tragedy.