India today celebrates the 126th Birthday Anniversary of its first Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, who was born on 14th November 1889. His contribution to the Independence movement, his tilt towards socialism and his initiative in starting the Public Sector Units in the country is well known and appreciated.

On this occasion, I remember about the rare chance I got to meet Nehruji. I think it was in 1956 or 1957. Panditji had come to Tellicherry in Kerala and was addressing a public meeting. I was working as a teacher in a nearby School, about some 25 miles or so from the place. I came to the meeting to see and hear him. I could stand only at a distance since there was a big crowd. I wanted to see him from near and to get his autograph.

I thought and found an idea. I had a small box-camera with me, which was presented to me by a pen-friend from Germany. Cameras were far less and mainly the news photographers used them. I thought if I move like a news reporter, I can reach him. That was exactly what happened. I was allowed to go nearby by the police and I took his photo. I requested for an autograph and he signed in the book. I was thrilled that I had been able to meet the Prime Minister from near and got the autograph of the great national leader. I showed the same with pride to my friends and colleagues.

Homage to Nehruji, the architect of the Nation, on his 125th Birth Anniversary!