Explanation: The Indian National Congress (INC) is one of the oldest and most influential political parties in India. It was founded in 1885 by Allan Octavian Hume, a retired British civil servant who had a keen interest in Indian politics and the welfare of the Indian people. Hume, along with other Indian leaders, saw the need for a platform where Indians could voice their concerns and work towards self-governance.
The first session of the Indian National Congress was held in Bombay (now Mumbai) from December 28 to December 31, 1885. This session was attended by 72 delegates from various parts of India, including prominent figures such as W.C. Bonnerjee, Dadabhai Naoroji, and Pherozeshah Mehta. The choice of Bombay as the venue for the first session was significant, as it was a major commercial and cultural center, and it symbolized the cosmopolitan nature of the movement.
The INC was initially a moderate organization that sought to work within the framework of British rule to achieve its goals. It aimed to promote the interests of the Indian people and to foster a sense of national unity. Over time, the INC evolved and played a crucial role in the Indian independence movement, with leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel contributing significantly to its growth and influence.
Understanding the founding of the Indian National Congress and the location of its first session is important for comprehending the early stages of the Indian independence movement. It highlights the role of both British and Indian figures in shaping the political landscape of India during the late 19th century. The INC's establishment marked the beginning of a long and complex journey towards Indian independence, which eventually culminated in the country's freedom from British rule in 1947.