Anand Bhavan Museum, Prayagraj

• Anand Bhavan, located in Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad), Uttar Pradesh, is a historic mansion and museum that holds immense significance in India’s freedom struggle and modern history. It was the residence of the Nehru family and is now a museum dedicated to India's independence movement and the legacy of the Nehru-Gandhi family.

  1. Historical Background

  Constructed by Motilal Nehru: Anand Bhavan was built in the 1930s by Motilal Nehru, a prominent lawyer and nationalist leader. It replaced the original Swaraj Bhavan (then known as Anand Bhavan), which had been donated to the Indian National Congress.

  Home to the Nehru Family: Anand Bhavan served as the primary residence of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, India's first Prime Minister, and his family, including Indira Gandhi.

  Role in the Freedom Struggle: The mansion was a hub of political activity, hosting meetings and discussions related to India’s fight for independence.

  2. Museum Features

  Anand Bhavan has been converted into a museum that preserves the rich history of the Nehru family and India's freedom struggle.

  Key Exhibits

  Personal Belongings: The museum houses personal items of the Nehru family, such as furniture, clothing, books, and photographs.

  Freedom Movement Artifacts: Documents, letters, and photographs that chronicle significant events of India's independence movement.

  Nehru Family's Legacy: Rooms dedicated to the Nehru family, including Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru’s study, bedroom, and the meeting rooms where key discussions took place.

  Indira Gandhi’s Childhood Room: A glimpse into the early life of Indira Gandhi, India’s first woman Prime Minister.

  Planetarium The Jawahar Planetarium, located within the Anand Bhavan complex, was built in 1979 and is a popular attraction, especially for children and astronomy enthusiasts.

  3. Architecture

  Anand Bhavan is a two-storied building with a blend of colonial and traditional Indian architectural styles.

  The mansion is surrounded by lush gardens and retains its old-world charm, offering a serene environment.

  4. Cultural and Historical Importance

  Venue for Congress Meetings: The house was often used for Indian National Congress sessions and meetings of key leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and Subhas Chandra Bose.

  Gift to the Nation: In 1970, Indira Gandhi donated Anand Bhavan to the nation to preserve it as a museum and a symbol of India's history.

  5. Visiting Information

  Timings: Open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (closed on Mondays and certain public holidays).

  Entry Fee: There is a nominal entry fee for both the museum and planetarium.

  Photography: Photography inside the museum is generally prohibited, but visitors can take photos of the exterior and gardens.

  Location: Located in the heart of Prayagraj, it is easily accessible by road and close to other attractions like Swaraj Bhavan and Allahabad Fort.

  6. Nearby Attractions

  Swaraj Bhavan: The original residence of the Nehru family, which also served as the headquarters of the Indian National Congress.

  Allahabad Fort: A historic Mughal-era fort near the Triveni Sangam.

  Khusro Bagh: A beautiful Mughal garden and tomb complex.

  7. Why Visit Anand Bhavan?

  Anand Bhavan offers visitors a glimpse into India’s past, the lives of its iconic leaders, and the struggles that shaped the nation’s destiny. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a student, or a tourist, this museum is a must-visit for its rich historical and cultural significance.