Introduction: Jawaharlal Nehru Biography in English”
The history of modern India is incomplete without the name of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. He was not only the first Prime Minister of independent India but also a visionary thinker, writer, and statesman who laid the foundation of a democratic and modern nation. Popularly remembered as “Chacha Nehru” among children, his ideas and policies shaped India’s growth in education, industry, science, and global diplomacy.
Contents
Early Life and Education :Jawaharlal Nehru Biography in English”
Jawaharlal Nehru was born on 14 November 1889 in Allahabad (now Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh) into a wealthy Kashmiri Brahmin family. His father Motilal Nehru was a renowned lawyer, and his mother Swarup Rani Nehru was a religious and cultured lady.
Nehru’s early education took place at home under private tutors. Later, he went to England, where he studied at Harrow School, pursued higher studies at Cambridge University, and completed law from the Inner Temple, London. His exposure to Western education and liberal thought influenced his outlook deeply, giving him a modern and scientific vision of life.
Entry into Politics and Freedom Struggle
After returning to India, Nehru briefly practiced law but soon found his true calling in India’s freedom movement.
1. Association with Congress (1919): He joined the Indian National Congress and became an active leader.
2. Influence of Gandhi: Meeting Mahatma Gandhi changed his life. Nehru adopted the principles of truth, non-violence, and mass struggle.
3. Non-Cooperation Movement (1920): Nehru actively participated, courted arrest, and endured imprisonment.
4. Nehru Report (1928): He was a key contributor in drafting a proposed constitution for India.
5. Civil Disobedience & Quit India Movement (1942): He played a vital role, spending several years in prison.
Through his fearless leadership, Nehru became one of the central figures of the Indian independence struggle.
India’s First Prime Minister
When India achieved independence on 15 August 1947, Nehru became the first Prime Minister. His iconic “Tryst with Destiny” speech inspired millions and set the tone for a new era. As Prime Minister, his goals included:
Establishing democracy and secularism
Building a self-reliant economy
Promoting scientific and industrial growth
Expanding education and literacy
Nehru and the Five-Year Plans
To modernize India’s economy, Nehru introduced Five-Year Plans:
First Plan (1951–56): Focused on agriculture and irrigation.
Second Plan (1956–61): Emphasized industrialization and heavy industries.
Third Plan: Strengthened research, science, and technology.
Nehru called large dams like Bhakra Nangal “the temples of modern India,” symbolizing progress and self-sufficiency.
Education and Love for Children
Nehru firmly believed that the progress of a nation depended on education.
He established IITs, AIIMS, agricultural universities, and scientific institutes.
His affection for children earned him the title “Chacha Nehru.”
To honor him, 14 November, his birthday, is celebrated as Children’s Day across India.
Foreign Policy and Panchsheel Principles
Nehru was the chief architect of India’s foreign policy.
He promoted the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), keeping India independent of US-Soviet power blocs.
Along with China, he framed the Panchsheel Principles, emphasizing peaceful coexistence, equality, and mutual respect.
Under his leadership, India gained recognition as a moral and democratic power in world affairs.
Writings and Literary Contributions
Nehru was also a prolific writer. His famous works include:
The Discovery of India
Glimpses of World History
Letters from a Father to His Daughter
These writings reveal his intellectual depth, historical understanding, and vision for India’s future.
Criticism and Challenges: Jawaharlal Nehru Biography in English”
Despite his contributions, Nehru faced criticism:
The 1962 Indo-China War was seen as a major failure of his foreign policy.
His socialist-oriented policies were criticized for slowing industrial growth.
However, his larger vision of democracy, secularism, and modernization overshadowed these shortcomings.
Death and Legacy:Jawaharlal Nehru Biography in English”
Jawaharlal Nehru passed away on 27 May 1964. His death left a deep void in Indian politics. Yet, his contributions remain alive in the institutions he built, the democratic values he nurtured, and the scientific and educational foundations he laid.
Nehru’s vision of a modern, secular, and democratic India continues to inspire generations.
Conclusion
Jawaharlal Nehru was not only India’s first Prime Minister but also the chief architect of modern India. His legacy includes a democratic framework, economic planning, education system, and scientific institutions that guide India even today. Remembered as “Chacha Nehru,” he will forever be cherished as a leader who dreamed of a progressive India led by its youth and strengthened by knowledge.