Several times over the years I have heard that the late Indira Gandhi’s husband was a Muslim and the name "Gandhi” had been given to him by Mahatma Gandhi. In fact, some books on the life of Feroze Gandhi have also stated this misconception.
I am a fifth generation Allahabadi and grew up in Allahabad, as did the Gandhis. Feroze’s eldest brother Faredoon was an honest and excellent lawyer of the Allahabad High Court. Initially living on Elgin Road, the Gandhis later moved to a large house opposite the High Court.
Feroze Gandhi: clean politician
Roda Gandhi, Feroze’s sister-in-law, was a well-known citizen of the city. She was a social worker ever ready to help in any sphere. I bonded well with her and along with my sister, the three of us put up entertaining items on festive days, especially with children. When Feroze married Indira, Roda was warmly hailed as "jethaniji.”
During World War II, when the country was facing upheavals in the pre-independence period, Roda opened Hotel Finaro, which was very popular. She spoke fluent English as also the pure Hindustani of Allahabad. Feroze’s nephew Rustom and his wife Shernawaz still live in Allahabad, in the same premises. Rustom has his own business, and Shernawaz is a retired teacher who has won an award. Their son Yezad, his wife Farah and son live in Bombay. Yezad is an acclaimed dentist, like his great-grandfather Dr Burjorji Hirji of Allahabad.
Feroze Gandhi’s ashes are buried in the Allahabad Parsi cemetery. He was a clean and sincere politician who fought for India’s freedom. It was said at that time that he distanced himself from any to whom the country was not of paramount importance. He worked and died for India.
MEHER D. DHONDY
Gurgaon, Haryana