Rajiv Gandhi’s Birth Anniversary: His Life Through Rare Photos

On his 74th birth anniversary, The Quint takes you through Rajiv Gandhi’s life with some rare pictures.

Former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi with wife Sonia Gandhi during an election tour in Amethi.

(Photo Courtesy: National Herald)

The last Gandhi to be the prime minister of India, Rajiv succeeded his mother Indira after her assassination in 1984. His five-year tenure is remembered most for its controversies – Bofors, unlocking the Babri Masjid, the Shah Bano Ordinance and India’s intervention in the Sri Lankan civil war.

But that’s only half the story. On his 74th birth anniversary, The Quint takes you through his life with some rare pictures.

The cheerful groom, Rajiv Gandhi with the beaming bride Sonia Gandhi and her friends after their marriage.

Young Rajiv Gandhi enjoying ice cream at India Gate, Delhi, with wife Sonia Gandhi.

Rajiv Gandhi with son Rahul Gandhi after Indira Gandhi’s death, at Akbar Road, Delhi.

Rajiv Gandhi in Paris with his mother Indira Gandhi and brother Sanjay Gandhi.

Fond of photography: Rajiv Gandhi shooting a video on Air Force Day in New Delhi.

Rajiv Gandhi at Doon School with his old school friends (Aroon Purie, editor-in-chief, India Today in the centre).

Rajiv Gandhi in Mizoram with the then Chief Minister of the state Lal Thanhawla.

Rajiv during an election campaign in Amethi.

Young Rajiv Gandhi as a pilot.

Rajiv Gandhi during an interview with a magazine in an aircraft.

Rajiv Gandhi at a public meeting at Boat Club after Indira Gandhi’s death.

Rajiv Gandhi in New Delhi after winning elections for the first time.

Young Rajiv Gandhi (sitting) with grandfather Pt Jawaharlal Nehru, mother Indira Gandhi and brother Sanjay Gandhi.

A family photograph.