Born: June 28th, 1921, at Karimnagar, Andhra Pradesh. Who is he? Outgoing Prime Minister of India.
Why's he in the news? His ruling Congress (I) party has taken a pounding at the polls. President Shankar Dayal Sharma asked him to resign in line with "high democratic traditions" and he complied last night.
Tough: Rao has been under increasing pressure to quit, despite being elected from both of the constituencies he contested.
Career: Ran participated in India's struggle for independence from Britain. In politics since 1956, he became Andhra Pradesh chief minister in 1971. Joined Indira Gandhi's cabinet (1980), holding several portfolios in her and her son Rajiv Gandhi's governments until 1989.
Known for his linguistic abilities and scholarship, he was about to retire when Rajiv Gandhi was killed by a bomb wired to an assassin (1991).
Rao was catapulted to power, expected to last a year at most, maybe two. Wily and Machiavellian, he survived a full five years as consensus prime minister, heading a minority Congress government.
Only five years Rao liked to work secretly, behind the scenes. Earned the nickname Mauni baba (silent seer). Likened to a sphinx, his silences could be deafening.
Relied on astrologers and soothsayers. Following a cosmic timetable, he recently visited a holy man's ashram in Karnataka before suggesting suitable election dates.
Was said to waste goodwill. Made many enemies in his own party, refusing to give up Congress presidency in the face of persistent demands.
Last word: Goes to K.R. Malkani, spokesman for the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP):
"He proved a remarkable all round failure."