Gopal Krishna Gokhale

Gopal Krishna Gokhale was an important figure in transforming the political landscape during British colonial rule in India. Gokhale also founded the Servants of India Society, an organization formed in 1905 that sought to overthrow British rule and promoted social reforms in India.

As a political mentor, Gokhale also worked closely with some of the most well-known figures of the Indian freedom movement, like Mahatma Gandhi. Gokhale’s socio-political achievement left an important mark in the history of India’s struggle for independence, making him a highly important figure among the British colonial freedom fighters.

In this article, we will explore the life of Gopal Krishna Gokhale, his achievements, political views, changes, and Impact.

Who was Gopal Krishna Gokhale?

Gopal Krishna Gokhale was one of the important leaders of the Indian National Movement and significantly contributed to India’s struggle for independence. He also led the Indian National Congress in 1889. Gopal Krishna Gokhale was born in Pune, Maharashtra. Even though his family faced money troubles, they made sure he got a Western education. This had a big impact on him as he grew to appreciate the writings of John Stuart Mill and Edmund Burke.

Gopal Krishna Gokhale – Early Life and Achievements

Born in a small village in Ratnagiri district in present-day Maharashtra, Gopal Krishna Gokhale belonged to a poor Chitpavan Brahmin family. He graduated from Elphinstone College in 1884. Despite the financial constraints, Gokhale worked hard to receive an English education, which eventually allowed him to work under the British Raj. He was also influenced by some of the most renowned political philosophers of his time, like John Stuart and Edmund Burke, whose work shaped his role in the early political discourse of India. Gokhale’s academic achievements and self-determination thus laid the foundation for his liberal political leadership.

Gokhale was also influenced by some of the most important leaders of the Indian national movement, like Bal Gangadhar Tilak. Gokhale strongly advocated for moderate methods of agitation against the British Raj and worked towards gradual reform.

Political Thoughts of Gopal Krishna Gokhale

Gopal Krishna Gokhale’s political career started as a member of the Bombay Legislative Council in 1889. He was also elected as a member of the Imperial Council of the Governor-General of India in 1901. Unlike some of his contemporaries, like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, who were advocating for more radical ways to gain independence from the British Raj, Gokhale was known for his passive approach. He aimed to use constitutional means to cooperate with the British government. He represented India in political affairs and sought to establish a dialogue and negotiations between India and Britain.

Gokhale’s political thoughts were shaped by pragmatism and a deep sense of ethics, which were witnessed through his efforts to seek common ground with the British colonizers to address the grievances of Indians. As a young leader, Gokhale’s political thoughts were also influenced by Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violence and service to humanity, which were reflected in his approach to the freedom struggle.

What is the “Servants of India Society”?

Apart from Gopal Krishna Gokhale’s remarkable political achievements, he was also deeply concerned with the socio-economic conditions of the nation during the British period. He went on to form the Servants of India Society in 1905. The members of this society included some of the most influential figures of Indian history, like Surendra Nath Banerjee, Gopal Krishna Deodhar, etc.

The Servants of India Society worked for the poor and underprivileged members of society. Through this sectarian organization, Gokhale aimed for the promotion of education, sanitation, and social welfare among the underprivileged sections of society. The society also looked into ways to eradicate social evils like alcoholism, oppression of women, and protection against domestic abuse. By opposing the injustices of low castes, untouchables, and other marginalised communities, the society’s larger goal was to promote human development. In its later years, the society established several schools and libraries in and outside of Maharashtra.

Legacy and Impact of Gopal Krishna Gokhale

Gopal Krishna Gokhale had a large impact on the political system of Congress:

• Gokhale was a key figure in the Indian National Congress’s formation. However, his moderate political views brought him into conflict with the radical faction of the Indian National Congress. Following the party’s split in 1907, Gokhale was highly concerned about the Congress’s stability in the future. He sought the support of prominent political members like Anne Besant and Rash Behari Ghosh to unite the rivalry between the moderate wing and the extremist wing of the Congress.
• Despite the growing tension between the members of the Indian National Congress and Gokhale, he was deeply revered for his sacrifice and efforts towards the freedom struggle by men like Tilak. Gandhi also admired Gokhale for his political achievements and leadership in the former’s autobiography.
• Gokhale further supported Justice M.G. Ranade’s initiatives for social reform, education, and equitable treatment under the law. Gokhale continued Ranade’s legacy politically and intellectually by actively supporting the latter’s initiatives. The partnership of these two visionaries had a long-lasting influence on India’s path to independence and social change, helping to shape the country’s political and social structure.
• One of the greatest achievements of Gokhale’s political career was his role in starting the Morley-Minto Reforms. This played a crucial role in starting a new era of India’s constitutional reforms. Gokhale was also a key player in India’s financial budget discussion before the Central Legislative Council. He received recognition for his testimony on India’s financial situation before the Welby Commission.

Changes brought by Gopal Krishna Gokhale

Here are some of the changes brought by Gopal Krishna Gokhale:

• Social Reforms: Gokhale advocated for social reforms, focusing on issues like child marriage and untouchability. He worked towards creating awareness about the need for change in societal practices.
• Education: Gokhale emphasized the importance of education. He believed that education could uplift society, and he worked towards improving educational opportunities for Indians, encouraging the spread of knowledge.
• Political Awareness: Gokhale played a crucial role in promoting political awareness among Indians. He encouraged people to actively participate in the political process, understand their rights, and work towards the betterment of the nation.
• Moderate Politics: Gokhale followed a path of moderation in politics. He believed in dialogue and negotiation rather than confrontation. His approach aimed at achieving reforms through peaceful and constitutional means.
• Representation in Government: Gokhale advocated for increased Indian representation in the government. He worked towards ensuring that Indians had a voice in the decision-making process, both at the regional and national levels.

Conclusion – Gopal Krishna Gokhale

Gopal Krishna Gokhale passed away in 1915 at the age of 49. This marked a significant loss in the socio-political arena of India. His legacy, however, was kept alive by his followers, who used Gokhale’s liberal political values as the guiding principles for India’s political future. His commitment to social reforms, establishing an egalitarian society, and advocating for constitutional reforms made him an unsung hero of India’s path to independence. Thus, Gopal Krishna Gokhale was the architect of Indian political and social reformation in its truest sense.

FAQs on Gopal Krishna Gokhale

1. Who was Gopal Krishna Gokhale

Gopal Krishna Gokhale was an influential Indian political leader and social reformer during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He played a crucial role in India’s struggle for independence through his efforts in the political and social spheres.

2. When did Gopal Krishna Gokhale preside over as the President of the Indian National Congress in Banaras?

Gopal Krishna Gokhale presided over the Indian National Congress in Banaras in 1905. Gokhale spoke about the crucial problems the country was facing during his tenure in Banaras.

3. Who were some of the other moderates within the Congress apart from Gopal Krishna Gokhale?

Dadabhai Naroji, Romesh Chandra Banerjee, and Ferozshah Mehta were some of the moderate members of the Congress. The Moderates believed in negotiations, petitions, and constitutional methods to address grievances with the British government.

4. What was the name of the newspaper started by Gopal Krishna Gokhale?

Gopal Krishna Gokhale founded a newspaper called “The Hitavada.” He established this publication in 1911, and it became an important platform for expressing his views on various social, political, and economic issues.

5. Mention one famous quote by Gopal Krishna Gokhale.

The quote “What Bengal thinks today, India thinks tomorrow” is often attributed to Gopal Krishna Gokhale. This expression reflects the idea of the socio-political trends and developments in Bengal, a region known for its intellectual and cultural growth.

6. What was the reform suggested by Gopal Krishna Gokhale concerning education?

Gokhale emphasized the need for free primary education for the masses. Gopal Krishna Gokhale suggested the introduction of free primary education during his budget speech at the Imperial Council in 1907.