Explanations:The Indian National Congress (INC) was a political party that played a crucial role in India's struggle for independence from British rule. It was founded in 1885 and has a rich history that spans over a century. The first session of the Indian National Congress was held in Bombay (now Mumbai) in December 1885. This event marked the beginning of a significant political movement in India, which aimed to unite various Indian political groups and work towards the common goal of self-governance and independence.
The choice of Bombay (Mumbai) as the location for the first session was not arbitrary. At the time, Bombay was a major commercial and political center in India. It was a hub of economic activity and had a significant population of educated Indians who were interested in political reform and the idea of self-governance. The city's strategic importance and its role as a center for trade and commerce made it an ideal location for the first session of the Indian National Congress.
The first session of the Indian National Congress was organized by Allan Octavian Hume, a retired British civil servant, and other prominent Indian leaders such as Womesh Chunder Bonnerjee, who was the first president of the INC. The session was attended by 72 delegates from various parts of India, representing different political and social groups. The primary objective of the session was to discuss the political and social issues facing India and to form a platform for collective action.
It is important to note that the Indian National Congress was not the only political organization in India at the time. However, it quickly became the most prominent and influential political party, playing a significant role in the Indian independence movement. The first session in Bombay (Mumbai) laid the foundation for the INC's future activities and its eventual success in achieving India's independence in 1947.
Understanding the historical context and the significance of the first session of the Indian National Congress is crucial for comprehending the broader narrative of India's struggle for independence. The choice of Bombay (Mumbai) as the location for this session highlights the city's importance in the political and social landscape of late 19th-century India.