NEHRU
‘For too long Nehru has been presented as a limited historical figure, as
someone through whom we learn only about India. Now Dr Zachariah’s
exciting book gives us new means of understanding the international
opportunities and pressures that confronted this intriguing man, and the
remarkable ways in which he responded to them.’
Robert Anderson, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver
‘... there is an urgent need to reassess the life and work of Jawaharlal Nehru.
Benjamin Zachariah does this in an original and provocative way. This book
is not merely a biography of Nehru, it is also an important account of the
origins of contemporary India.’
Rajat Kanta Ray, Presidency College, Calcutta
How did Jawaharlal Nehru come to lead the Indian nationalist movement,
and how did he sustain his leadership as the first Prime Minister of inde-
pendent India? Nehru’s vision of India, its roots in Indian politics and society,
as well as its viability, have been central to historical and present-day views
of India. This engaging new biography dispels many myths surrounding
Nehru, and distinguishes between the icon he has become and the politician
he actually was.
Benjamin Zachariah places Nehru in the context of the issues of his times,
including the central theme of nationalism, the impact of Cold War pressures
on India and the transition from colonial control to a precarious indepen-
dence. Connecting the domestic and international aspects of his political life
and ideology, this study provides a fascinating insight into Nehru, his times
and his legacy. It is essential reading for students and all those with an
interest in Indian history or international relations.
Benjamin Zachariahis Lecturer in International History at the University
of Sheffield. His research focuses on the social and intellectual history of
colonial south Asia, and the transition from colonial rule to the postcolonial
Indian state.