In 1885, Indian National Congress was established in the city of:

Category: Maharashtra Gk

Hint: Consider the major cities that were significant during the British colonial period.

Correct Answer: B) Bombay

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

The Indian National Congress (INC) is one of the oldest and most significant political organizations in India. It was founded in 1885 in the city of Bombay, which is now known as Mumbai. The INC played a pivotal role in the Indian independence movement, serving as a platform for the political expression of the Indian people and advocating for self-rule against British colonial rule.

The establishment of the INC in Bombay was not a random choice. Bombay was a major commercial and political center in British India, and it was home to a significant number of educated Indians who were interested in political reform and self-governance. The city's strategic importance and its role as a hub for trade and commerce made it an ideal location for the founding of a political organization that aimed to unite Indians in their struggle for independence.

The INC was founded by A.O. Hume, a retired British civil servant, along with other Indian leaders such as W.C. Bonnerjee, A.O. Hume, and Dadabhai Naoroji. The first session of the INC was held in Bombay from December 28 to December 31, 1885. This session marked the beginning of a long and significant journey for the organization, which would go on to play a crucial role in the Indian independence movement.

It is important to note that while other cities such as Delhi, Lahore, and Calcutta were also significant during the colonial period, they were not the founding locations of the Indian National Congress. Each of these cities had their own importance in the political and social landscape of India, but the INC was specifically established in Bombay.

Understanding the historical context and the significance of Bombay in the founding of the Indian National Congress is crucial for comprehending the broader narrative of the Indian independence movement. The INC's establishment in Bombay underscores the city's role as a center of political and social activism during the colonial era, and it highlights the importance of Bombay in the broader struggle for Indian independence.

Option Analysis:

Option A: This option is incorrect. Delhi was not the founding city of the Indian National Congress. While Delhi was an important city during the British colonial period, it was not the site where the INC was established in 1885.
Option B: This option is correct. The Indian National Congress was indeed established in Bombay (now Mumbai) in 1885. This city was chosen as the founding location due to its significance as a major commercial and political center in British India.
Option C: This option is incorrect. Lahore was not the founding city of the Indian National Congress. Although Lahore was a significant city in the colonial era, it was not the site where the INC was established.
Option D: This option is incorrect. Calcutta (now Kolkata) was not the founding city of the Indian National Congress. While Calcutta was a major city and a center of political activity, the INC was not established there in 1885.

Mnemonic: B for Bombay, B for Birth of the Indian National Congress

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