Jawaharlal Nehru: The Visionary Who Built Modern India

Jawaharlal Nehru: Jawaharlal Nehru was born on 14 November 1889 in Allahabad into a wealthy, highly educated, and influential Kashmiri Pandit family. His father, Motilal Nehru, was a renowned lawyer and a leading figure in the Indian National Congress, while his mother, Swarup Rani, was deeply religious and gentle in nature.

Nehru developed a strong love for reading and learning from an early age. His initial education took place at home through private tutors and governesses.

Education Abroad

At the age of 15, he went to England. There, he studied at:

• Harrow School

• Trinity College, Cambridge

• Later, he pursued law at the Inner Temple, London

During his years abroad, he developed a deeper understanding of science, politics, history, socialism, and international affairs.

Entry into Indian Politics (Return to India)

After returning to India in 1912, Nehru began practicing law at the Allahabad High Court. However, his life changed completely after meeting Mahatma Gandhi in 1916. He was deeply inspired by Gandhi’s principles of non-violence, truth, and satyagraha, and soon devoted himself entirely to the freedom struggle.

Rise as a Young National Leader

Nehru quickly became active in the Congress. He worked extensively among farmers, workers, and youth, and openly opposed the economic policies of the British government.

Major Movements He Led

• Non-Cooperation Movement (1920)

• Civil Disobedience Movement (1930)

• Quit India Movement (1942)

These movements resulted in multiple imprisonments. In total, Nehru spent more than 9 years in jail, where he also wrote several notable books.

International Vision

Nehru’s worldview was never limited to India alone. He had a deep understanding of global politics, socialism, colonialism, and international relations. His vision was to transform India into a modern, scientific, and progressive nation.

Relationship with Mahatma Gandhi

Nehru was one of Gandhi’s most trusted colleagues. Gandhi often referred to him as his “Prince.”

Though they sometimes differed on certain issues—especially regarding economic and development models—they always remained united for the nation’s interests.

Role in India’s Independence

As India neared independence, the question of what the new nation should look like became extremely important. Among the leaders shaping this vision, Nehru stood at the forefront.

Key Contributions Before Independence

• Leading figure of the Congress from 1930 to 1945

• Important role in forming the Constituent Assembly

• Key leader of the Interim Government of 1946

Finally, on 15 August 1947, India attained freedom and Nehru became the first Prime Minister of independent India.

Prime Minister Nehru (1947–1964): Architect of Modern India

Nehru’s 17-year tenure as Prime Minister is often described as the foundation period of modern India.

1. Industrialization & Five-Year Plans

He focused on:

• Heavy industries

• Steel plants

• Major dams and irrigation projects

• Establishment of the Planning Commission

He famously described large dams as “the temples of modern India.”

2. Education & Scientific Growth

Under his leadership:

• IITs, IISc, AIIMS were strengthened or established

• India’s space and nuclear programmes began

• UGC was created

• Scientific temperament was promoted across society

3. Democracy & Secularism

Nehru laid the foundations of a strong democratic framework. A multi-party system, free press, and independent judiciary continued to flourish under his guidance.

4. Non-Aligned Movement (NAM)

During the Cold War, Nehru adopted the policy of non-alignment, ensuring that India did not come under the influence of any global superpower. This continues to shape India’s foreign policy even today.

Challenges Faced by Nehru

Like every great leader, Nehru faced several challenges:

Partition of India (1947)

Violence, refugee crisis, and communal tensions—Nehru played a significant role in managing these crises.

Kashmir Conflict

The 1947 war with Pakistan and subsequent UN involvement became a major challenge during his tenure.

Indo-China War (1962)

This war is considered the biggest setback of Nehru’s political career and affected him deeply on a personal level.

Personal Life

Nehru married Kamala Nehru in 1916. They had one daughter, Indira Gandhi, who later became the Prime Minister of India. Nehru shared a close bond with his daughter, and his letters to her were later published as the famous book “Letters from a Father to His Daughter.”

Death (End of Journey)

Years of political struggle, the stress of the China war, and advancing age weakened his health. On 27 May 1964, Nehru passed away due to a heart attack. The entire world mourned the loss of one of the 20th century’s most influential statesmen. India had lost its greatest nation-builder.

Legacy of Nehru

• India’s first and longest-serving Prime Minister

• Founder of modern institutions

• Architect of India’s democracy, science, education, and foreign policy

• A global leader who shaped world politics during the Cold War

His birthday is still celebrated as Children’s Day, reflecting his deep affection for children.

The life story of Jawaharlal Nehru is an inspiring narrative of the freedom struggle, humanitarian ideals, and the vision of a modern India.
His policies strengthened India economically, scientifically, and democratically—foundations that continue to shape the nation even today.