MotiLal Nehru

A Stalwart of India’s Freedom Struggle

Early Life and Background

One of the most eminent personalities of the Indian nationalist movement, Motilal Nehru was born in 1861 into an aristocratic family. Tragedy struck early when he lost his father three months before his birth, and he was brought up by his elder brothers. His student days at Muir Central College, Allahabad, played a formative role in shaping his intellect and outlook.

Distinguished Legal Career

Motilal Nehru chose law as his profession and soon emerged as one of the most successful and respected lawyers in the country. His legal acumen, integrity and eloquence earned him national recognition, and he came to be regarded as a legal luminary of his time.

Entry into Public Life and Journalism

Motilal’s political journey began with his attendance at the Allahabad session of the Indian National Congress in 1910. In 1911, he became a member of the Allahabad Municipal Board and the All India Congress Committee.
In 1919, he launched the daily newspaper ‘Independent’, which became a powerful voice for nationalist ideas and political awakening.

Leadership in the Freedom Movement

Motilal Nehru’s leadership qualities were widely acknowledged when he was elected President of the Amritsar Congress in 1919. He was among the first senior leaders to wholeheartedly accept Mahatma Gandhi’s call for Non-Cooperation. In 1920, he gave up his flourishing legal practice, embraced a simple lifestyle, and adopted khadi, symbolizing his complete commitment to the national cause.

Swarajya Party and Legislative Politics

Following the suspension of the Non-Cooperation Movement in 1922, Motilal Nehru advocated participation in legislative councils to continue the struggle from within the system. Despite differences of opinion with Mahatma Gandhi, he stood firmly by his convictions.
In January 1923, he and C. R. Das founded the Swarajya Party, which emerged as the largest party in the Central Legislative Assembly. For the next six years, Motilal Nehru served as the Leader of the Opposition, giving voice to nationalist aspirations within the legislature.

The Nehru Report

The appointment of the Simon Commission in 1927, without any Indian representation, reignited the freedom movement. To counter this, a committee was formed to draft constitutional principles for a free India. Motilal Nehru was unanimously chosen to head this committee.
The resulting Nehru Report became India’s first collective and systematic attempt to frame a constitution, laying the foundations of a secular and democratic polity.

Final Years and Sacrifice

Despite declining health, Motilal Nehru actively participated in the Salt Satyagraha and the mass civil disobedience movement. He was arrested and imprisoned, but worsening health led to his release. Surrounded by Mahatma Gandhi and his son Jawaharlal Nehru, he passed away on 6th February, 1931.

Legacy

Motilal Nehru is remembered as a legal luminary, nationalist leader, parliamentarian and journalist who played a decisive role in India’s freedom struggle. He also holds a unique place in history as the father of Jawaharlal Nehru, independent India’s first Prime Minister.

Commemorative Postage Stamp

In recognition of his towering contribution to the freedom movement and his role in shaping the foundations of a secular and democratic India, the Department of Posts is privileged to issue a Commemorative Postage Stamp on Motilal Nehru, honouring one of the foremost architects of modern India.