History Paintings & Portraits of Indian Leaders

Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru taking Oath, 1960, S.N. Ghoshal, Oil on Canvas

Location: North Drawing Room

Several forms define this composition. India gained its freedom from the British on the midnight of 15th August 1947. Representatives of India from various parts of the country gathered under the dome of Ganatantra Mandap next morning to witness the grand swearing-in of the newly formed government under the leadership of Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru.

Lord Mountbatten, Lady Mountbatten and Jawaharlal Nehru, can be seen in a semicircular arrangement atop a flight of steps in the Ganatantra Mandap. On one side is seen Dr. Rajendra Prasad holding a copy of the oath with other important dignitaries while on the other side are seen Vallabhbhai Patel, Maulana Azad and others. Two large National flags along with the Governor- General’s flag in deep blue with Star of India can be seen in the background. Huge silver chairs of King George V and Queen Mary are seen in front of the flags.

S.N. Ghoshal born in Kolkata is known for his skill in capturing the likeness of the human form in its entirety. He is an expert in aesthetics and has written two iconic books, outlining the shastric elements in Indian art. He has also painted murals in the Parliament House museum.