For Building A Nation, You Don't Need A Brand

Technocrat-turned-politician Sam Pitroda, 76, was former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi's friend.

- Soni Mishra

Today, the GenNext of the Gandhi family trusts his counsel the most. Pitroda, who divides his time between the US and India, has played an important role in the shaping of Congress president Rahul Gandhi's political career and in the enhancement of Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's involvement in politics.

In an exclusive interview with THE WEEK, Pitroda says Priyanka is a great asset to the Congress, and dismisses suggestions that she will eclipse her brother, saying the two work as a team and complement each other. Excerpts:

What is the significance of Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's entry into politics?

It is significant. I am happy Priyanka has decided to enter politics. She brings in great value to the Congress. She is politically sound and has tremendous people skills. She is a great asset to the party and to the Congress president. This will have a positive effect on the morale of party workers. She brings in young energy and enthusiasm to the political environment. Also, I feel that Rahul and Priyanka complement each other.

The timing of Priyanka's entry into politics seems to have been carefully decided.

Priyanka comes in as the Congress gears up for the Lok Sabha elections. The timing was decided by the Congress president. It had to be decided by them. Earlier, she wanted to focus more on her children. There were family constraints. She is a mother of two kids. Like any normal human being, she wanted to give priority to the family.

In the last few years, she did step up her political involvement.

She became actively involved in election management ahead of the Lok Sabha elections in 2014. She stepped in to help her brother, and was like the chief of staff in Rahul's office. And that involvement has continued.