A serene aura envelops Ten Murti Ashram and Aruna Samdhi. This isn’t just a place it’s a pilgrimage. A journey through India’s modern history. Here stands Teen Murti Bhavan. Once the home of Jawaharlal Nehru India’s first Prime Minister. For sixteen years he lived and worked within these walls. He shaped a nation’s destiny from this very spot.
Teen Murti Bhavan’s history extends far beyond Nehru. Originally Flagstaff House it served as the Commander-in-Chief’s residence during the British Raj. Built in 1930 by Robert Tor Russell the architect also designed Connaught Place. The building’s white stone and stucco exude elegance. Its 30 acres encompass more than just a house.
The name Teen Murti literally means “three statues”. It refers to the memorial outside. The life-sized sculptures depict soldiers from Jodhpur Hyderabad and Mysore. They fought bravely in World War I at Haifa. Their sacrifice is commemorated here a poignant reminder of India’s past.
Today Teen Murti Bhavan houses the Nehru Memorial Museum and Library. This invaluable resource preserves Nehru’s legacy. It offers a glimpse into the life of a pivotal figure. The museum contains his office recreated with original furniture. Visitors can see mementos and manuscripts. There’s even a recreated version of his South Block office.
Indira Gandhi Nehru’s daughter transformed the residence into a museum. The complex expanded further. It now includes the Centre for Contemporary Studies and the Nehru Planetarium. Opened in 1984 it showcases the wonders of the cosmos. It’s a testament to India’s scientific progress a fitting addition to this historical site.
Within the grounds lies a hidden gem. The Shikargah or Kushak Mahal. This 14th-century hunting lodge of Firoz Shah Tughlaq stands as a reminder. It speaks of Delhi’s rich and layered history. A history that unfolds before you at Ten Murti Ashram and Aruna Samdhi. This sacred site blends the personal with the political. It’s a poignant reflection on India’s past and present. A journey through time and a testament to a nation’s soul. Leave today with a deeper understanding of India’s past. And a renewed appreciation for the legacy that continues to shape its future.