About Nehru Centre
Nehru Centre is a cultural and educational complex in Worli, Mumbai, established as a living memorial to India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. Conceived in 1972 and completed in 1985, it houses the Discovery of India exposition, an art gallery, a library, an auditorium, and the Nehru Planetarium. The distinctive cylindrical tower symbolizes India's growth from agrarian roots to industrial modernity. It serves as a prominent venue for scientific, artistic, and cultural programs promoting Nehru's ideals.
Visitors guide
Visitors can explore the permanent 'Discovery of India' exposition spanning 14 galleries with over 50,000 exhibits depicting India's artistic and intellectual history. The complex features an art gallery showcasing young and eminent artists, a reference library, and the Nehru Planetarium offering astronomy shows in multiple languages. The architecture includes a landscaped sloping base and a cylindrical tower. Cultural performances, exhibitions, and educational workshops are regularly held in the auditorium and exhibition halls.
Key highlights
- 01
Discovery of India exposition covering 5,000 years of Indian civilization across 14 galleries
- 02
Nehru Planetarium with Digistar 7 digital projection system and multilingual sky shows
- 03
Distinctive cylindrical tower architecture designed by I.M. Kadri symbolizing national growth
- 04
Art gallery dedicated to promoting young talent alongside established artists
- 05
Reference library with approximately 25,000 books on diverse disciplines including Nehruvian literature
- 06
State-of-the-art auditorium hosting music, dance, theatre, and academic events
History of Nehru Centre
Conceived in 1972 by Rajni Patel with foundation stone laid by Indira Gandhi, the centre was completed in 1985 as a living memorial to Jawaharlal Nehru. The planetarium was commissioned on March 3, 1977. The building's design by architect I.M. Kadri reflects Nehru's vision of India's transition from agriculture to industry.
Culture & Context
The centre promotes Nehru's teachings through educational and cultural programs, serving as a hub for scientific temper, artistic expression, and historical preservation. The 'Discovery of India' exposition seeks to define the country's true identity through its philosophical and intellectual heritage. It regularly hosts competitions, festivals, and lectures fostering youth engagement in arts and sciences.