UGC-NTA NET Political Science – Bal Gangadhar Tilak
Bal Gangadhar Tilak was a prominent figure in Indian political thought and a key player in the struggle for India’s independence from British rule. His life and ideas have left impact on the nationalist movement in India.
Biographical Information
Bal Gangadhar Tilak was born on July 23, 1856, in Ratnagiri, Maharashtra. He completed his education at Deccan College in Pune and later studied law in England. Tilak passed away on August 1, 1920, in Mumbai. His early exposure to social issues and education influenced his later political engagement.
Political Ideology
Tilak’s political ideology was grounded in the concepts of Swaraj and nationalism.
Swaraj
He famously declared, “Swaraj is my birthright.” This phrase encapsulated his belief in self-rule and autonomy for Indians.
Nationalism
Tilak stressed the importance of national identity. He believed that unity among Indians was crucial for achieving independence.
Radical Approach
Initially a moderate, he shifted to a more radical stance. He advocated for direct action against British rule, believing that passive resistance was insufficient.
Key Contributions
Tilak made several notable contributions to the Indian independence movement.
Home Rule Movement
In 1916, he launched the Home Rule League, which aimed to promote self-governance. This movement gained traction among Indians.
Role in Indian National Congress
Tilak became a prominent leader within the Indian National Congress and was part of the Extremist faction, advocating a more aggressive approach to British rule.
Social Reforms
He championed education and women’s rights, pushing for social reforms within Hindu society. His efforts aimed at uplifting the masses and encouraging social awareness.
Philosophy and Thought
Tilak’s philosophy combined cultural nationalism and anti-colonial sentiment.
Cultural Nationalism
He emphasised the revival of Indian culture and heritage. This approach aimed to unite diverse communities under a common national identity.
Religion and Politics
Tilak integrated religion with politics. He used Hindu symbols and festivals to mobilise the masses, making political engagement accessible to the common people.
Anti-Colonial Sentiment
He was a vocal critic of British imperialism. His writings and speeches promoted the idea of resistance against colonial rule.
Literary Contributions
Tilak was also a prolific writer and publisher.
Maratha Newspaper
He founded the newspaper “Maratha,” which served as a platform for spreading nationalist ideas and encouraging political awareness.
Keshari Newspaper
He launched “Kesari,” another influential newspaper, which aimed to educate the masses about political issues.
Writings
Tilak authored several works, including “The Arctic Home in the Vedas,” which explored Indian history and culture.
Major Events and Actions
Tilak was involved in several key events that shaped the Indian independence movement.
First Indian National Congress
He participated in the first session of the Indian National Congress in 1885. Over time, he emerged as a key figure in the organisation.
Partition of Bengal (1905)
Tilak opposed the partition of Bengal, using it to rally nationalist sentiments among Indians.
Trial and Imprisonment
In 1908, he was imprisoned for sedition due to his writings against the British government. This imprisonment further solidified his status as a leader of the nationalist cause.
Legacy
Tilak’s legacy is deep and enduring.
Father of Indian Nationalism
He is often referred to as the “Father of Indian Nationalism” for awakening national consciousness among Indians.
Influence on Future Leaders
His ideas inspired future leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru, who carried forward his vision of self-rule.
Symbol of Resistance
Tilak remains a symbol of resistance against colonial rule and a proponent of self-determination.
Philosophical Influences
Tilak’s thoughts were shaped by various philosophical influences.
Gandhian Thought
His ideas on self-rule influenced Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violent resistance, which became a mainstay of the Indian independence movement.
Social Darwinism
He was influenced by Social Darwinism, applying the concept of survival of the fittest to nations and cultures, advocating for the strength and unity of the Indian nation.
Recognition and Honors
Tilak received numerous posthumous recognitions for his contributions.
Posthumous Recognition
He is honoured as a national hero, with various institutions and places named after him, including universities and public spaces.
Tilak Jayanti
His birth anniversary, known as Tilak Jayanti, is celebrated annually, commemorating his contributions to Indian nationalism.
Criticism
Despite his contributions, Tilak faced criticism from various quarters.
Sectarian Politics
Some critics argue that he promoted Hindu nationalism, which contributed to communal divisions in India.
Radical Methods
Contemporaries viewed his radical methods as extreme compared to more moderate leaders. This division in approach brought into light the differing strategies within the Indian independence movement.
