Jawaharlal Nehru was an exemplary leader who served as the first Prime Minister of India. His life story is an inspiration to many, and for good reason, as he was a man who dedicated himself to the cause of freedom, unity and progress of India.
Through his democratic principles and hard-work, Nehru is largely responsible for making India a secular and democratic nation.
He was born on November 14, 1889 in Allahabad, India. His father was Motilal Nehru, an affluent and successful lawyer, and his mother was Swarup Rani.
Though raised in a privileged background, Nehru was deeply affected by the injustice caused by the British imperialism.
This, coupled with his exposure to the socialist ideals of Fabian Society, motivated and inspired Nehru to join the Indian National Movement.
Through his leadership, Nehru was able to guide India to its independence in 1947.
His contribution to India further extended beyond the attainment of freedom.
He was the main architect of the new Constitution of India adopted in 1950. Under his guidance, India embarked in the path to progress and development.
He founded many social welfare projects such as the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, one of India’s premier medical research institutes, and the National Institute of Technology to ensure access to better education and technology to all.
Nehru was also a firm believer in peaceful foreign relations.
He proposed the idea of Panchsheel, or Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, which was adopted and used as a guideline between India and its neighboring countries.
His charm and diplomacy often made him a favorite amongst international statesmen.
He was the first head of state to visit Austria, Libya, Iraq, Soviet Union, and many other countries.
Jawaharlal Nehru’s far-reaching influence and legacy still exists in India, and it will be remembered for many decades.
He was a true patriot, and a visionary leader who contributed immensely to the shaping of modern India.