Mains Practice Questions

Approach

• Introduce the features of the nationalist movement during the Gandhian phase.
• Highlight the various voices that strengthened the Gandhian phase of the nationalist movement.
• Conclude suitably.

Introduction

Gandhi during the national freedom movement mobilized millions across the country through campaigns like the Non-Cooperation Movement, Civil Disobedience Movement, and the Quit India Movement. During the Gandhian phase of the Indian nationalist movement, numerous voices contributed to its strengthening and enrichment, bringing diverse perspectives and energies to the cause of India's independence.

Body

Here are some key contributors:

• Jawaharlal Nehru:
  • Nehru's vision of a modern, secular, and industrialized India complemented Gandhi's more traditional and rural-focused approach.
  • As a prominent leader of the Indian National Congress, he played a crucial role in internationalizing the Indian struggle for freedom.
  • Nehru's speeches and writings inspired many, particularly the youth, to join the movement.
• Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel:
  • Known as the "Iron Man of India," Patel was instrumental in organizing peasants in Gujarat and leading the Bardoli Satyagraha.
  • He played a key role in the administrative and organizational aspects of the Congress party and the movement.
• Subhas Chandra Bose:
  • Bose's approach was more radical compared to Gandhi’s non-violent methods. He advocated for complete and immediate independence and was willing to use military force if necessary.
  • His formation of the Indian National Army (INA) and his attempts to garner international support from Axis powers added a significant dimension to the struggle.
• Women Leaders:
  • Women like Sarojini Naidu, Kasturba Gandhi, and Kamala Nehru emerged as significant figures, leading protests, and mobilizing female participation.
  • The inclusion of women brought a broader social base and highlighted the movement’s inclusive nature.
• Revolutionary Movements:
  • Parallel to the Gandhian movement, revolutionary groups like those led by Bhagat Singh, Chandrashekhar Azad, and the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA) pursued more militant strategies.
  • Their actions and sacrifices kept the spirit of resistance alive and inspired many young Indians.
• Regional Leaders:
  • Leaders like C. Rajagopalachari in the South, Abdul Ghaffar Khan (the Frontier Gandhi) in the North-West, and many others brought regional diversity and strength to the movement.
  • They helped in mobilizing local populations and addressing regional issues within the broader framework of the national struggle.
• Social Reformers and Thinkers:
  • Figures like B.R. Ambedkar, though critical of certain aspects of Gandhi's methods, contributed significantly to the discourse on social justice and the rights of marginalized communities.
  • Their work ensured that the nationalist movement also addressed issues of social inequality and justice.

Conclusion

These diverse voices and approaches collectively enriched the Indian nationalist movement, ensuring that it was not just a political struggle for independence but also a social revolution aiming for a just and equitable society. The interplay of various ideologies, strategies, and leadership styles ultimately contributed to the comprehensive and dynamic nature of the movement during the Gandhian phase.