50 Intriguing Facts About Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru: A Tribute on His Birth Anniversary
Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first Prime Minister, is celebrated for his role in shaping modern India. Known as ‘Chacha Nehru’ or ‘Uncle Nehru,’ he dedicated Children’s Day to young minds, believing that they were the future of the nation. Here, we explore 50 lesser-known yet fascinating facts about his life and legacy, which might reveal a side of Nehru that few are familiar with.
1. Early Life and Education
- Born on November 14, 1889, in Allahabad, Nehru was the eldest child in his family.
- He received his early education from private tutors in India.
- Later, Nehru studied at Harrow School in England and went on to graduate from Trinity College, Cambridge.
- He then studied law at Inner Temple in London, eventually becoming a barrister.
2. Passion for India’s Freedom
- Inspired by the British rule's impact on his homeland, Nehru returned to India with a mission to fight for its independence.
- He joined the Indian National Congress and quickly became a prominent leader in the freedom struggle.
- Nehru was deeply influenced by Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals, particularly the path of non-violence.
3. A Committed Youth Leader
- As a young leader, Nehru became the Congress President for the first time in 1929 at the age of 40.
- He emphasized engaging India’s youth in the freedom struggle, inspiring them to work for an independent future.
4. Architect of Modern India
- After India gained independence in 1947, Nehru became the nation’s first Prime Minister.
- He played a significant role in laying the foundation for India’s modern industries and public institutions.
5. Founding of IITs and Other Institutions
- Nehru was instrumental in setting up Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), which are now globally recognized for excellence in education.
- He also founded AIIMS and Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) to strengthen India’s educational framework.
6. A Visionary for Scientific Progress
- Nehru believed that science and technology could drive India’s progress, advocating for research and industrialization.
- His vision led to the establishment of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).
7. Advocate for Children’s Rights
- Nehru’s love for children earned him the title ‘Chacha Nehru’ or ‘Uncle Nehru.’
- To honor him, his birth date, November 14, is celebrated as Children’s Day in India.
- He believed children symbolized hope and wanted to see them grow in a free and progressive India.
8. Role in Panchsheel Agreement
- Nehru promoted peaceful international relations and signed the Panchsheel Agreement with China in 1954.
- This agreement outlined five principles of peaceful coexistence between the two nations.
9. Author and Intellectual
- Nehru was an accomplished author and penned several books including The Discovery of India and Glimpses of World History.
- His writings reflect his intellectual depth, understanding of history, and hopes for India’s future.
10. A Believer in Secularism
- Nehru was a strong advocate of secularism and worked to establish a society where all religions were respected.
- He emphasized unity and believed that India’s diversity was one of its greatest strengths.
11. Contributions to India’s Foreign Policy
- Nehru shaped India’s foreign policy and established its role as a leader of the Non-Aligned Movement.
- He believed India should maintain neutrality during the Cold War and focus on its development.
12. Advocate for Democratic Values
- Nehru held strong democratic principles, emphasizing freedom, equality, and justice for all citizens.
- He aimed to build a democratic system that would empower all segments of Indian society.
25 More Facts About Nehru’s Personal and Political Life
Here are additional facts that paint a fuller picture of Nehru’s diverse interests, relationships, and legacy:
- Nehru enjoyed gardening and was known for his love of roses, often seen wearing one on his coat.
- His close friendship with Mahatma Gandhi shaped many of his political views.
- Nehru’s daughter, Indira Gandhi, followed in his footsteps to become India’s first female Prime Minister.
- He practiced yoga and believed in its health benefits.
- Nehru’s political career spanned over 50 years, from 1919 to his death in 1964.
- He was imprisoned several times by the British, spending over 9 years in jail during the freedom struggle.
- Nehru’s famous “Tryst with Destiny” speech on India’s Independence Day is still celebrated.
- He was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize multiple times but never received it.
- Nehru enjoyed swimming and considered it a great way to stay fit.
- He was fluent in several languages, including English, Hindi, and Urdu.
- Nehru’s father, Motilal Nehru, was also a prominent lawyer and politician.
- His autobiography, An Autobiography, offers a glimpse into his personal thoughts and journey.
- He played a crucial role in uniting India’s princely states after independence.
- He was known for his articulate public speaking.
- He maintained a strong stance on protecting India’s sovereignty.
- Nehru was known for his progressive social views, supporting women’s rights and education.
- He introduced the concept of “temples of modern India” to refer to scientific and industrial institutions.
- His vision for India included eradication of poverty and hunger.
- Nehru’s birthday is celebrated as Bal Diwas, or Children’s Day, across India.
- He supported India’s linguistic diversity, helping to create language-based states.
- Nehru wrote extensively to his daughter, Indira, sharing his thoughts on history and leadership.
- He valued artistic and cultural heritage and promoted institutions for the arts.
- His friendship with world leaders, including Kennedy and Nasser, fostered India’s global relationships.
- Nehru passed away on May 27, 1964, leaving behind a lasting legacy.
- Nehru’s commitment to democracy set a solid foundation for India’s political system.
Nehru’s Lasting Impact
Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru’s life and legacy continue to shape India’s journey. From his contributions to education and industrialization to his commitment to democracy and secularism, Nehru’s influence is embedded in India’s foundation. His belief in children as the pillars of the future remains alive every Children’s Day, as his memory is celebrated with respect and admiration.
