Motilal Nehru: An Influential Nationalist Leader (6 May 1861- 6 February 1931)

Motilal Nehru: An Influential Nationalist Leader (6 May 1861- 6 February 1931)

Introduction

Motilal Nehru was a prominent and influential leader of the Indian freedom struggle. He was a distinguished lawyer, skilled politician and one of the important pillars of the Indian National Congress. Known for his eloquence, determination and liberal outlook, Motilal Nehru left a deep mark on Indian politics and society.

Birth and Education

He was born on May 6, 1861 in a Kashmiri Brahmin family in Agra. He received his early education at home and later obtained a law degree from Cambridge University. After returning to India, he started a successful advocacy career in Allahabad and soon came to be counted among the most eminent lawyers of the country. His legal brilliance and ability to present cases effectively earned him wide recognition.

Entry into Politics

Motilal Nehru's political career began in the early years of the 20th century.  He joined the Indian National Congress and gradually gained an important position within the party. His impressive personality and intellectual ability soon brought him to the ranks of national level leaders. He played an important role in various sessions of the Congress and influenced the party's policies with his progressive ideas.

Relation with Gandhi

After Gandhiji entered the Indian political scene, Motilal Nehru accepted his leadership and actively participated in the Non-Cooperation Movement. He gave his full support to the movement by leaving his successful advocacy and even went to jail. This sacrifice and dedication of his made him even more popular among the general public.

Foundation of Swaraj Party

Motilal Nehru was the co-founder of the Swaraj Party, which he formed along with Chittaranjan Das. The objective of this party was to oppose the policies of the government and advance the demand for self-rule by entering the Legislative Councils. The Swaraj Party achieved significant success in the Legislative Councils and played an important role in pressurizing the British government.

 As President of Congress

He also served twice as the President of the Indian National Congress. During his presidential tenure, he tried to keep the party united and give a new direction to the freedom movement. Motilal Nehru was a visionary leader and had clear ideas about the future of India. He strongly supported the demand for Poorna Swaraj (complete independence) and contributed significantly in making it the main goal of the Indian National Congress.

Death

He died on February 6, 1931. Motilal Nehru is still remembered as a great hero of the Indian freedom struggle. His sacrifice, dedication and leadership will remain a source of inspiration for generations to come. He gave a new direction to Indian politics and contributed significantly in achieving the goal of independence.

Conclusion

Motilal Nehru's personality was multifaceted. He was an efficient administrator, an excellent orator and a man with a generous heart. His residence, Anand Bhavan, became an important center of Indian politics, where the country's big leaders and workers often met and deliberated on important strategies.