The mansion was originally purchased by Motilal Nehru in 1900 and was initially called Ishrat Manzil.
In 1930, Motilal Nehru gifted the property to the Indian National Congress to serve as its headquarters.
Indira Gandhi was born in a room on the ground floor of this building in 1917.
The house was a frequent meeting point for historical figures including Mahatma Gandhi during the non-cooperation movement.
The site hosts a permanent exhibition documenting the transition from the family home to a political center.
Swaraj Bhawan is the ancestral residence of the Nehru family, formerly known as Anand Bhawan before it was donated to the Indian National Congress. The property served as a crucial hub for political activities during the Indian independence movement. It was renamed Swaraj Bhawan, meaning 'Abode of Self-rule', by Motilal Nehru after moving his family to the adjacent Anand Bhawan. The building now functions as a museum dedicated to preserving documents, photographs, and artifacts related to the struggle for independence. The architecture reflects early 20th-century residential styles of North India. It is managed by the Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Fund. The interior layout remains largely preserved to provide historical context regarding the living conditions of the Nehru family. It is distinct for its role as the birthplace of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
The front exterior facade showing the historical architectural pillars.
Spend time reading the detailed information plaques next to the personal artifacts for context.
Visit the nearby Anand Bhawan on the same trip as it contains different historical collections.
Photography is often restricted inside the galleries; confirm with staff upon entry.
Do not confuse this site with the neighboring Anand Bhawan, though both are historically linked.
Closed on Mondays and national public holidays.
Maintain a quiet tone as it is a site of national historical importance; remove shoes if requested by staff at specific gallery entrances.
