The Discovery of India by Jawaharlal Nehru

JUNE 19, 2023

The Discovery of India is a book written by India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, which illuminates the history of India and its rich cultural heritage. The book is a chronicle of India’s journey from the ancient Indus Valley Civilization to the Indian freedom struggle.

Nehru wrote the book while he was imprisoned in Ahmadnagar Fort during India’s struggle for freedom from British colonial rule. It was published in 1946, a year before India gained independence.

In the book, Nehru discusses India’s history, its culture, religions and traditions, and the political and social changes that have shaped the country over the centuries. Nehru’s writing is poetic and lyrical, making the book an enjoyable read for those with an interest in Indian history and culture.

One of the key themes of the book is the idea of India’s unity in diversity. Nehru believed that the diversity of India, with its many cultures, religions, and languages, was its greatest strength. He argued that India’s diverse communities had learned to live together in harmony over the centuries, and that this was a model for the world.

Nehru also believed that India’s future lay in industrialization and science, and that the country had the potential to become a world leader in technology and innovation. He saw India’s independence as an opportunity to harness these strengths, and to build a new, progressive India.

The Discovery of India has had a profound impact on Indian thought and identity. It is widely read and admired for its insights into India’s culture and history, and for the way it celebrates India’s diversity. In 1989, the Indian government even issued a stamp to commemorate the book’s 40th anniversary.

Overall, The Discovery of India is a must-read for anyone interested in Indian history and culture, or in the life of Jawaharlal Nehru and his contribution to Indian freedom struggle. It is a compelling and insightful work, and a testament to the greatness of India and its people.