Jawaharlal Nehru was the first Prime Minister of India. He served as Prime Minister from 1947 to 1964, a period of over 17 years. Nehru was a leader of the Indian independence movement and played a key role in the country's transition to independence from British rule. He was also a key figure in the development of modern India and is credited with laying the foundations of the country's democratic and secular political system. Nehru was the son of Motilal Nehru, a prominent lawyer and nationalist leader, and was a close associate of Mahatma Gandhi. He was a member of the Indian National Congress party and served as President of the party on several occasions. Nehru was a highly influential figure in Indian politics and is considered one of the country's greatest leaders.