Who played an important role in persuading Mahatma Gandhi to return to India from South Africa?

Correct option is D

The correct answer is (d) C. F. Andrews
Explanation:
· Charles Freer (C.F.) Andrews, a close friend of Gandhi known as 'Deenbandhu', played a pivotal role in convincing Mahatma Gandhi to return to India permanently.
· In 1914, at the behest of Gopal Krishna Gokhale, Andrews visited South Africa to assist Gandhi in his struggle for the rights of Indians there.
· He persuaded Gandhi that his presence was urgently needed in the Indian independence movement.
· Gandhi finally returned to India on January 9, 1915, a day now celebrated as Pravasi Bharatiya Divas.
Information Booster:
· Gopal Krishna Gokhale is considered Gandhi’s political guru, as he was the one who initially directed Gandhi's focus toward Indian national politics.
Additional Knowledge:
(a) F. W. Baker: (Option a) The attorney who hired Gandhi to go to South Africa for a legal case in 1893.
(b) Spencer Walton / (c) William Godfrey: (Option b & c) These were individuals Gandhi encountered during his 21-year stay in South Africa, but they did not play the leading role in his return.