On Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the nation in commemorating the birth anniversary of Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first prime minister, born in Prayagraj in 1889. Nehru’s pivotal role in the nation’s freedom movement and his significant contributions to shaping modern India were acknowledged by leaders across the political spectrum.
Modi paid homage to Nehru, stating, “Tributes to our first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru Ji on his birth anniversary.”
Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Sonia Gandhi laid floral tributes at Shantivan in the national capital to honour Nehru’s legacy.
Nehru, widely recognized for nurturing democratic foundations, played a crucial role in India’s growth. Kharge shared his sentiments, saying, “Humble tribute on the birth anniversary of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru ji, who took India from zero to the pinnacle, the creator of modern India, the fearless guardian of democracy and our source of inspiration.”
Kharge emphasized Nehru’s role as the prime architect of modern India, noting that Nehru believed a democratic structure, allowing space for various cultural, political, and socio-economic trends to express themselves, could hold India together. Kharge highlighted the need to preserve, protect, and defend India’s Constitution and democratic institutions as part of Nehru’s enduring legacy.
Affectionately known as ‘Chacha Nehru’ for his warm regard for children, Nehru’s impact extended beyond the socio-political landscape, promoting unity and progress despite challenges. After Nehru’s passing in 1964, India decided to celebrate his birthday as ‘Bal Diwas’ or Children’s Day on November 14, a day dedicated to fostering love for children.
Kharge emphasized Nehru’s vision and wrote, “Today, as we gather in Shanti Van, to pay our revered tributes to him, we must preserve, protect and defend India’s Constitution and our long-cherished Democratic institutions and principles — his enduring legacy.”
Nehru’s belief in the significance of children led to the declaration of November 14 as National Children’s Day in India. Although Universal Children’s Day was initially marked on November 20 globally, India’s unanimous decision to shift the date served as a testament to Nehru’s legacy as a visionary leader and advocate for children’s welfare.
Schools across the nation engage in various activities on National Children’s Day to honor Nehru’s memory and echo his belief in the importance of children. The day serves as a reminder of Nehru’s enduring impact on India’s past, present, and future, emphasizing the values of unity, progress, and democratic principles that he championed throughout his lifetime.
