Part of: Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 94

Hind Swaraj' was written by?

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Consider the historical context and the key figures of the Indian independence movement.

Correct Answer: B) Mahatma Gandhi.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Civil Services, Bank PO

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

'Hind Swaraj' is a significant text in the history of the Indian independence movement. It was written by Mahatma Gandhi in 1909 while he was traveling from London to South Africa. The book is a critique of modern industrial civilization and advocates for a return to traditional Indian values and self-reliance. Gandhi's vision in 'Hind Swaraj' emphasizes the importance of non-violent resistance and self-governance, which became central to the Indian independence movement.

The text is notable for its critical stance on Western industrialization and its call for a self-sufficient India. Gandhi argues that the British colonial rule has not only exploited India economically but has also corrupted its social and moral fabric. He advocates for a return to traditional Indian village life, where people are self-sufficient and live in harmony with nature. This vision of India is in stark contrast to the industrialized and urbanized society that was emerging under British rule.

Understanding the authorship of 'Hind Swaraj' is crucial for comprehending the ideological underpinnings of the Indian independence movement. Mahatma Gandhi, as the author, played a pivotal role in shaping the movement's philosophy and strategies. His ideas of non-violent resistance, self-reliance, and the rejection of Western industrialization were influential in the struggle for independence and continue to be relevant in discussions about development and governance in India.

It is important to distinguish Gandhi's role in the independence movement from that of other key figures such as Abul Kalam Azad, Sardar Patel, and Subhas Chandra Bose. While all these individuals were significant in their own right, they did not author 'Hind Swaraj'. Azad was a prominent nationalist and a senior leader of the Indian National Congress, Patel was a key figure in the integration of India and the first Deputy Prime Minister, and Bose was a significant leader who advocated for a more aggressive approach to independence. Each of these leaders contributed to the movement in different ways, but the authorship of 'Hind Swaraj' is uniquely attributed to Gandhi.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Abul Kalam Azad was a prominent Indian nationalist and a senior leader of the Indian National Congress, but he did not write 'Hind Swaraj'. This option is incorrect.
  • Option B: Mahatma Gandhi wrote 'Hind Swaraj' in 1909. This option is correct as it accurately identifies the author of the text.
  • Option C: Sardar Patel was a key figure in the Indian independence movement and the first Deputy Prime Minister of India, but he did not write 'Hind Swaraj'. This option is incorrect.
  • Option D: Subhas Chandra Bose was a significant leader in the Indian independence movement, but he did not write 'Hind Swaraj'. This option is incorrect.

Mnemonic: Hind Swaraj, Gandhi's call for self-rule

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