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Who said the following words: 'Indian nationalism is an elite phenomenon, a creation of lawyers and doctors and landlords'.
Question

Who said the following words: 'Indian nationalism is an elite phenomenon, a creation of lawyers and doctors and landlords'.

A.

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel

B.

Pt Jawahar Lal Nehru

C.

Mahatma Gandhi

D.

Rajendra Prasad

Correct option is C

The correct answer is (c) Mahatma Gandhi.

Explanation:

  • In February 1916, during a speech at Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Mahatma Gandhi remarked that Indian nationalism was predominantly an elite phenomenon, primarily led by lawyers, doctors, and landlords.
  • This observation highlighted the limited reach of the nationalist movement at that time, emphasizing its concentration among the upper echelons of society.
  • Gandhi ji intended to broaden the movement's base to include the wider populace, especially the common people.

Information Booster:

Mahatma Gandhi's speech at BHU in 1916 was significant for several reasons:

  • Critique of Elitism: Gandhi pointed out that the nationalist movement was dominated by the elite, which limited its effectiveness and inclusivity.
  • Call for Inclusivity: He emphasized the need to involve the masses, particularly farmers and laborers, to move truly representative of India's diverse population.
  • Vision for Self-Governance: Gandhi believed that true self-governance (Swaraj) could only be achieved when all sections of society actively participated in the nationalist cause.

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (1875–1950)

  • Known as the "Iron Man of India".
  • Played a key role in India’s integration by merging 562 princely states into the Indian Union.
  • First Deputy Prime Minister & Home Minister of independent India.
  • Led the Bardoli Satyagraha (1928) against increased land revenue taxes.

Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru (1889–1964)

  • First Prime Minister of India (1947-1964).
  • Known as the "Architect of Modern India" due to his focus on industrialization and scientific development.
  • Promoted the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) during the Cold War.

Dr. Rajendra Prasad (1884–1963)

  • First President of India (1950-1962) and served for 12 years, the longest tenure for any Indian President.
  • Presided over the Constituent Assembly of India (1946-1949), playing a major role in drafting the Indian Constitution.

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