Jawaharlal Nehru’s “A Tryst with Destiny” speech, delivered on the eve of India’s independence on August 14, 1947, stands as one of the most iconic speeches in the annals of Indian history. This address not only marks a pivotal moment in India’s journey but also reflects the aspirations and challenges of a newly independent nation.
Nehru delivered the speech to the Indian Constituent Assembly in Parliament, just moments before India officially gained independence from British rule. This speech symbolized the culmination of years of struggle and a significant transition from colonial governance to self-rule.
The speech outlined the dreams and aspirations of a new nation embarking on a journey of self-governance. Nehru spoke of the challenges ahead, emphasizing the responsibilities of citizenship and the need for sacrifice and diligence in nation-building. His words served as a powerful articulation of hope, unity, and the collective ambition of India.
One of the most quoted lines from this speech is, “At the stroke of the midnight hour, when the world sleeps, India will awake to life and freedom.” This phrase captures the historic moment of India’s independence with remarkable depth.
Nehru addressed multiple themes within his speech, including the end of British colonial rule and the suffering caused by the partition. He also celebrated freedom and pointed out the future tasks awaiting the country. His emphasis on eradicating poverty, ignorance, and disease highlighted the need for striving towards a more equitable society.
The speech remains a crucial part of India’s collective memory and is frequently cited in discussions about India’s independence and its immediate aftermath. It reflects Nehru’s vision and hopes for India, serving as a reminder of the lofty ideals that the founders of the Indian Republic set for themselves. “A Tryst with Destiny” continues to be remembered as a profound commitment to democracy, justice, and equality, embodying the spirit and aspirations of a newly independent nation.
“To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield.” — Alfred Lord Tennyson, often reflective of Nehru’s call for continuous effort and unyielding resolve in his speech.
Q1. What is the significance of Nehru's speech “A Tryst with Destiny”?
Answer: Nehru's speech marked India's transition from colonial rule to independence, highlighting national aspirations, unity, and the responsibilities of citizenship.
Q2. When was “A Tryst with Destiny” delivered?
Answer: The speech was delivered on August 14, 1947, just before India gained independence from British rule.
Q3. What themes did Nehru address in his speech?
Answer: Nehru discussed themes such as the end of colonial rule, the impact of partition, future challenges, and the importance of equality and justice.
Q4. How is Nehru's speech remembered today?
Answer: The speech is remembered as a defining moment in Indian history, often cited in discussions about independence and democracy.
Q5. What is the famous line from Nehru's speech?
Answer: The famous line is, “At the stroke of the midnight hour, when the world sleeps, India will awake to life and freedom.”
Question 1: Who delivered the speech “A Tryst with Destiny”?
A) Mahatma Gandhi
B) Jawaharlal Nehru
C) Sardar Patel
D) B.R. Ambedkar
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: When was the speech “A Tryst with Destiny” delivered?
A) August 14, 1947
B) January 26, 1950
C) August 15, 1947
D) July 4, 1947
Correct Answer: A
Question 3: Which theme was NOT addressed in Nehru's speech?
A) End of colonial rule
B) Economic policies
C) Importance of unity
D) Future challenges
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: What does Nehru's famous line about midnight signify?
A) Beginning of a new era
B) End of British rule
C) Time for celebration
D) Call for sacrifice
Correct Answer: A
Question 5: Nehru's speech was delivered to which assembly?
A) Lok Sabha
B) Rajya Sabha
C) Indian Constituent Assembly
D) Legislative Assembly
Correct Answer: C
Question 6: What was the main focus of Nehru's aspirations in the speech?
A) International relations
B) Economic development
C) Democracy and justice
D) Cultural heritage
Correct Answer: C
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