Chapter 5: BACK HOME AND WAR-TIME POLITICS
In 1912, India’s politics were subdued, and the Bankipore Congress felt more social than political. Nehru, initially drawn to law, found it uninspiring and distanced himself from the official class. The outbreak of World War I revived political activity, with the Home Rule Movement and Mrs. Besant’s internment energizing young nationalists. Even his father, a Moderate, grew more progressive, supporting the Congress-League scheme in 1916. By 1918, Nehru had broken from the Moderates, drawn to Gandhi’s methods and increasingly disillusioned with his legal career.

Chapter 6: MY WEDDING AND A HIMALAYAN ADVENTURE
After his 1916 wedding, Nehru traveled to Kashmir and embarked on a daring trek beyond Zoji-la Pass. He marveled at the stark beauty of the Himalayas and faced a near-fatal fall while attempting to reach Amarnath. Though forced to turn back, the journey left a lasting impact, igniting his lifelong fascination with the mountains as symbols of freedom and spiritual fulfillment.

Audiobook | Chapters 3 & 4 | Jawaharlal Nehru's "Autobiography" | Narrated by Giribala Joshi

 

Chapter 3: THEOSOPHY

In his early teens, Nehru enjoyed a privileged life at Anand Bhawan, filled with play and exploration. His father’s reformist stance clashed with orthodox traditions, reflecting broader social tensions. Briefly drawn to Theosophy under tutor F.T. Brooks and Annie Besant’s influence, Nehru’s interest in religion and philosophy faded after Brooks’ departure. Meanwhile, global events like the Russo-Japanese War stirred his early nationalist sentiments, shaping his intellectual and political awareness.

Chapter 4: HARROW AND CAMBRIDGE

At Harrow, Nehru struggled with homesickness but adapted, excelling academically while feeling like an outsider. His interest in politics and aviation set him apart, and encounters with anti-Semitism shaped his views on race and identity. At Cambridge, he studied Natural Sciences, engaged in political debates, and observed the rise of Indian Extremists like Tilak. Drawn to nationalism but lacking clear direction, he chose law over the Civil Service and returned to India in 1913.