Indira Gandhi

(Shyam Sunder:) “In September 1967 Laljibhai Hindocha asked me to go to Delhi for some work of his sugar factory with the Government of India. I wrote to Mother about it, adding that at Delhi I could also do some work of Sri Aurobindo Society. It would take four-five days and I wrote to Mother asking for her ‘orders’.
         Mother replied, “Go there with my blessings,” and added that perhaps I could go to Indira Gandhi to invite her for laying the foundation stone of Auroville on 28th February 1968 and that I should speak to Nava about it. Nandini Satpaty was contacted by Nava and she took me to Indira Gandhi at her residence. Indiraji was courteous and attentive, but she doubted the possibility of her visit.
         Coming out, Nandini spoke to Seshan, Indira's Private Secretary, and he advised that I should write the request and the reply will be given. When I went alone with my letter of a few lines, the usual security paraphernalia was active and there was difficulty in seeing even the Private Secretary. I was asked to go next morning to the Prime Minister's office to get a reply.
         In the Reception lounge there was a crowd and some confusion. Somehow I went upstairs earlier than expected. Some persons were already sitting with Seshan. While waiting, I could hear that some border skirmishes had taken place and Indira was attending to the problem. Seshan said that she would not be able to go due to the Budget presentation at that time and that she would write to Mother. ...
         Back at Pondicherry, I went to see Mother. She had received my letter from Delhi, made a correction of my French and noted her reply that she had not yet got Indira's letter, but the ceremony will be arranged otherwise. She said with a smile, “She doesn't want to come,” and added, “It is not important. The thing is working in her head.” ”

(Shyam Sunder:) “During the Pakistan-Bangladesh fighting a message came from Nandini Satpaty that Indira Gandhi wanted Mother's advice about her course of action. India was helping Bangladesh and the USA Government was not pleased. The matter went to Mother through me in the absence of Nava, the usual contact person of Nandini.
         Mother said, “She should do the best she can.” ”

(Shyam Sunder:) “I do not remember the occasion of it, but once Mother said after the parting of Indira Gandhi from Nandini Satpaty, “Now Nandini is not there and we do not have Indira's ears.” I remember the expression of concern on Mother's face when she uttered these words.”

(Mother:) “I have received a letter from Indira. [29 December 1971]

(Satprem:) Oh, really?

(Mother hands an envelope)

“Revered Mother,

Through these critical months I have thought constantly of you. I can find no words with which to express my gratitude for your support. Your blessings are a great source of strength. Our difficulties are not over....”

(Mother nods her head)

“... The American administration is most upset that its calculations were so completely wrong, and they will use their power to try to humble us and specially to create division between Bangla Desh and ourselves. I think our nation has taken a step towards maturity. Yet there are many who look only to today. If India is to be great we must improve the quality of the minds of our people. I know that this is your desire. In my humble way I am trying to do what I can.

With respectful regards, Yours sincerely,
Indira Gandhi”

(Satprem:) That’s good, indeed.

It’s good. So I replied this:

“To Indira

With blessings.

India must be proud of your leadership.

Let the country take its true place in the world for showing the way towards the supreme Truth.

with love
Mother”

It’s good she has taken this tack.

Yes, it’s good.

I didn’t think she was like that.

(Mother nods her head)”

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See also

• India

•