"Peace is not a relationship of nations. It is a condition of mind brought about by a serenity of soul. Peace is not merely the absence of war. It is also a state of mind. Lasting peace can come only to peaceful people"

True peace transcends diplomatic agreements or the absence of armed conflict. It is rooted in the inner world of each individual, shaped by the serenity and clarity within the soul. Even without war or turmoil between nations, unrest can persist if the minds and hearts of people remain turbulent or fearful. Nehru’s reflection emphasizes that peace is fundamentally internal; it originates in our thoughts, emotions, and worldview.

To achieve peace on a societal or global scale, individuals must cultivate tranquility, understanding, and compassion within themselves. External treaties or negotiations can only provide temporary relief if the underlying disposition of people remains restless, anxious, or hostile. A society of individuals who are continually at odds with themselves or harbor anger and suspicion cannot sustain genuine peace, no matter how many accords are established.

Nehru also distinguishes between the absence of violence and the active presence of peace. Merely not fighting, or the absence of open hostility, is not enough. Real peace encompasses inner calm, acceptance, and goodwill that radiates outward, influencing relationships between individuals, communities, and nations. When people possess peace of mind, they interact with others in a spirit of cooperation rather than competition or fear. The quality of this inner peace determines the nature of our relationships and the harmony we experience collectively.

Lasting peace is thus only possible among people who have made peace within themselves. It requires efforts such as introspection, self-mastery, tolerance, and empathy. When individuals become peaceful, their presence and actions foster understanding and calm in their environments. Over time, as more people attain this inner serenity, it forms the foundation of steadfast peace in families, societies, and eventually between nations. True security and harmony come from this maturity of spirit, rather than from weapons or treaties alone.