The book "Gita Rahasya", a philosophical interpretation of the Bhagavad Gita, was written by which of the following leaders?​

Correct option is B

The correct answer is (b) Bal Gangadhar Tilak

• "Gita Rahasya" was written by Bal Gangadhar Tilak, a prominent Indian nationalist, and freedom fighter, in 1915 while he was in prison in Burma.

• This work is a philosophical interpretation of the Bhagavad Gita that reflects Tilak's understanding of the text. It focuses on the karma yoga (yoga of action) and how it can be applied to India’s fight for independence.

• Karma Yoga: A key concept in Tilak's Gita Rahasya, emphasizing that one should perform their duties without attachment to the results.
• Self-Realization and Nationalism: Tilak’s work linked the spiritual teachings of the Gita with the nationalistic struggle for independence.
• Imprisonment and Writing: Written during his imprisonment in Mandalay, it became one of his most significant contributions to India's philosophical and political thought.

Explanation of Other Options:

(a) Aurobindo Ghosh:

• Key Contribution: Aurobindo Ghosh was a freedom fighter and spiritual leader who played a major role in the Indian independence movement.

• He is famous for his philosophical and spiritual works, such as "The Life Divine" and "The Synthesis of Yoga".

• Aurobindo was a key proponent of the Integral Yoga, which focused on the transformation of human consciousness.

• He was a prominent leader of the Bengal Renaissance and believed in the spiritual awakening of the nation as essential for its independence.

• He also contributed significantly to Indian literature and his journal "Karmayogin" spread ideas about revolution, self-rule, and nationalism.

(b) Bal Gangadhar Tilak:

• Key Contribution: Tilak was one of the most prominent leaders in the early phase of the Indian independence movement.

• He is best known for his slogan "Swaraj is my birthright" and for being a leader of the extremist faction of the Indian National Congress.

• Tilak was an advocate for self-rule and promoted cultural nationalism, which was aimed at awakening the masses to the freedom struggle.

• He also launched the annual celebration of Ganesh Chaturthi to foster unity and national spirit among the people.

(c) Mahatma Gandhi:

• Key Contribution: Mahatma Gandhi was the leader of the Indian independence movement and is known for his philosophy of non-violence (Ahimsa) and truth (Satya).

• Gandhi’s book "The Bhagavad Gita as I Understand It" was his personal interpretation of the text, and it emphasized spirituality in daily life, non-violent resistance, and the concept of selfless service.

• His Salt March, Quit India Movement, and other mass movements were instrumental in challenging British rule in India.

• Gandhi’s influence extended beyond India; his methods of peaceful protest inspired various global movements for civil rights and freedom.

(d) Gopal Krishna Gokhale:

• Key Contribution: Gopal Krishna Gokhale was a social reformer, political leader, and mentor to Gandhi.

• He was the founder of the Servants of India Society, which worked for the upliftment of the Indian poor, particularly in the areas of education and social justice.

• Gokhale believed in the importance of education and social reform for improving Indian society. He advocated for constitutional methods to achieve self-rule and played a key role in the Indian National Congress.

• His moderate political views and focus on reforms laid the foundation for many social movements in India, including women’s rights and the abolition of untouchability.