Written during his imprisonment at Ahmednagar Fort between 1942 and 1946, The Discovery of India is Jawaharlal Nehru’s deeply personal and intellectual tribute to the soul of India. Composed in solitude during the Quit India Movement, the book reflects Nehru’s profound engagement with India’s history, culture, philosophy, and civilisational continuity.
Spanning from ancient times to the end of British rule, Nehru explores the Vedas, Upanishads, ancient texts, cultural traditions, and political movements, presenting India not just as a nation, but as an evolving idea shaped by diversity and resilience. Written in an accessible yet scholarly style, the book offers a sweeping narrative that connects the past to the present, helping readers understand India’s identity and spirit.
Widely regarded as one of the finest works on Indian history and thought, The Discovery of India also inspired the iconic television series Bharat Ek Khoj (1988). This timeless classic remains essential reading for anyone seeking to understand India beyond dates and events—through its ideas, struggles, and enduring cultural legacy.
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