Political leaders across the country paid tribute to India’s first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, on his 137th birth anniversary on Saturday. The occasion is also marked as Children's Day in the country to commemorate his legacy.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered his tributes in a post on X, acknowledging the former leader's birth anniversary. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also paid his respects, highlighting Nehru's contributions to the Indian freedom struggle and his leadership during the early years of the nation’s independence.
Congress leadership marked the day with a series of events. Party president Mallikarjun Kharge and Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi visited Shanti Van in New Delhi to offer floral tributes at his memorial. Several party leaders, including former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, were present during the visit. Later, Mr. Kharge and Ms. Gandhi paid homage at a portrait of Nehru in the central hall of Samvidhan Sadan, the old Parliament building, where Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla was also in attendance.
In a social media post, Rahul Gandhi described Nehru as the "Jewel of Hind," stating that freedom was a milestone in the nation's journey rather than a final destination for him. Mr. Kharge remembered Nehru as the "principal architect" of modern India, noting his commitment to democracy, secularism, and scientific inquiry. In a separate message, Mr. Kharge extended wishes to children on the occasion, emphasizing the importance of providing equal opportunities and education for the future generations.
Key facts
- Jawaharlal Nehru was born on November 14, 1889, in Allahabad.
- Nehru served as India's first Prime Minister after the country gained independence.
- He passed away in New Delhi on May 27, 1964.
- The tributes were held on the occasion of his 137th birth anniversary.
Background
Born in 1889, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru played a central role in the Indian independence movement and became the nation's first Prime Minister upon achieving freedom from British rule in 1947.
Source: Economic Times, Hindustan Times
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