Jawaharlal Nehru: 'You don't change the course of history by turning the faces of portraits to the wall.'

You don't change the course of history by turning the faces of portraits to the wall.

In his famous quote, Jawaharlal Nehru once said, "You don't change the course of history by turning the faces of portraits to the wall." At first glance, this quote may seem simple and straightforward, suggesting that we cannot alter history simply by ignoring or forgetting about it. It reminds us that acknowledging and learning from our past is crucial for shaping the present and future. However, when delving deeper into its underlying philosophical concept, an intriguing connection emerges between the quote and the idea of subjective reality.To grasp the essence of this quote, let us start with its literal interpretation. Turning the faces of portraits to the wall can be seen as a symbolic act of trying to ignore or erase history. Just like the faces in portraits, history cannot be hidden away or wished out of existence. The events, individuals, and ideas that have shaped our world cannot simply be relegated to the shadows. Instead, they demand our attention and contemplation.Nehru's quote holds significant importance as it emphasizes the need to confront our history openly. History carries valuable lessons that can guide us in making informed decisions and avoid repeating past mistakes. By facing the portraits on the wall, we acknowledge the reality of our collective past and, in doing so, gain a greater understanding of who we are as individuals and as a society.However, beyond the surface meaning lies a fascinating connection to the concept of subjective reality. Our perception of the world and how we understand history is often influenced by our own personal biases and perspectives. Each individual carries a unique set of experiences and beliefs that shape their understanding of the past. It is here that we encounter a subtle paradox within Nehru's quote.While a straightforward interpretation suggests that history must not be ignored, the concept of subjective reality challenges us to question the objectivity of history itself. The portraits on the wall may preserve a certain version of events, but they might not reflect the complete truth. Different interpretations and narratives arise from diverse perspectives, leading to contrasting accounts of history.Acknowledging this paradox offers us an opportunity for growth and learning. By recognizing that history can have multiple facets, we learn to explore beyond the face value and delve into the perspectives of others. Engaging with different viewpoints enables us to forge connections, find common ground, and build bridges that can disrupt the knowledge silos and prejudiced interpretations that divide us.Moreover, this realization urges us to critically evaluate the narratives we encounter, both in history and in the present. It prompts us to question who writes history and whose voices may have been marginalized or forgotten. By actively seeking a diverse range of perspectives, we can strive for a more comprehensive understanding of the past and help shape a fairer and more inclusive future.In conclusion, Nehru's quote encapsulates the importance of embracing history rather than attempting to obscure it. While the straightforward interpretation reminds us to acknowledge and learn from our collective past, an unexpected philosophical concept emerges when we consider the role of subjective reality. By understanding history as a multi-dimensional entity, we cultivate empathy, curiosity, and critical thinking. It is by challenging our assumptions, engaging with diverse perspectives, and actively shaping the narratives of history that we truly have the power to change the course of history itself.