Jawaharlal Nehru

Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India, had a strong and powerful lineage. He was born on the 14th of November, 1889 at Allahabad; Jawaharlal Nehru was the eldest child of Motilal Nehru and Swarup Rani. His family was from Kashimiri heritage and belongs to a high Hindu caste. They were Saraswat Brahmins, who were valued greatly in Allahabad in those days. Originally part of the Kashmiri Pandit society, the Nehru’s had to shift to what was called United Provinces. But the family gelled well with the people there and Motilal Nehru, Jawaharlal's father and started practicing law in Allahabad. He was also a highly leading man, both socially as well as politically. He was a learned scholar too. He excelled in numerous languages that included Persian, Urdu, Arabic, English and many more.

Jawaharlal Nehru and his entire family lived in a big house called 'Anand Bhawan' in Allahabad. The house is still there (pic.). All the children were brought amidst immense lavishness and comfort. With a swimming pool and a tennis court in the home premises, Jawaharlal Nehru led a lavish life.

Jawaharlal Nehru received his initial education at house under an English governess. Hindi and Sanskrit were also taught to the children at the Nehru home. People of all castes and religions were accepted and welcome in 'Anand Bhawan'. There were many servants in the Nehru household, who belonged to different various castes and religions. The doors of 'Anand Bhawan' remained open for all people irrespective of differences in caste and religion.