New Delhi, March 2 -- India's first and only woman Prime Minister, Indira Gandhi, remains one of the most formidable political figures in the country's history. Known for her steely resolve, political acumen and uncompromising leadership style, Gandhi earned the sobriquet of the "Iron Lady of India". Born on 19 November 1917 to Jawaharlal Nehru, India's first Prime Minister, she went on to become the second-longest serving Prime Minister of the country. Her tenure was marked by decisive geopolitical moves, the Green Revolution, and an aggressive push against poverty. She was assassinated on 31 October 1984.

"You cannot shake hands with a clenched fist."

At first glance, the quote appears almost self-explanatory. Yet, like many of Gandhi...