I don't know how to put on an act; I always show myself for what I am, in whatever mood I'm in.

Even if I died in the service of the nation, I would be proud of it. Every drop of my blood... will contribute to the growth of this nation and to make it strong and dynamic.

India had barely become independent, in 1947, when Pakistan invaded Kashmir, which at the time was ruled by a maharajah. The maharajah fled, and the people of Kashmir, led by Sheikh Abdullah, asked for Indian help. Lord [Louis] Mountbatten, who was still governor general, replied that he wouldn't be able to supply aid to Kashmir unless Pakistan declared war, and he didn't seem bothered by the fact that the Pakistanis were slaughtering the population.

Women sometimes go too far, it's true. But it's only when you go too far that others listen.

Every democratic system evolves its own conventions. It is not only the water but the banks which make the river.

Have a bias toward action - let's see something happen now. You can break that big plan into small steps and take the first step right away.

To bear many children is considered not only a religious blessing but also an investment. The greater their number, some Indians reason, the more alms they can beg.