Associations, Journals, Books and Plays: UPSC Previous Year Questions (Modern History)

Explanation

During the colonial period, Indian literature saw significant growth influenced by nationalism, social reforms, and Western education. Writers began using novels and newspapers to address socio-political issues, preserve cultural identity, and inspire freedom movements.

Option (b) is correct: Durgesh Nandini was written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay in 1865 and is considered one of the first major novels in Bengali literature. It marked the beginning of the historical novel genre in India and played a crucial role in promoting nationalist sentiment during the colonial period.

Option (a), (c) and (d) are incorrect:

Rast Goftar, an Anglo-Gujarati newspaper (1851) was founded by Dadabhai Naoroji and it promoted social reform and rational thinking. Maratha (1881), an English newspaper, was launched by Bal Gangadhar Tilak, who spread nationalist ideas. Nibandhamala, a marathi monthly, by Vishnushastri Chipulankar, analyzed socio-economic issues and advocated reforms.

Explanation

Surendranath Banerjee, M.K. Gandhi, Subhas Chandra Bose, and Lala Lajpat Rai were prominent freedom fighters who played pivotal roles in India’s struggle for independence, advocating nationalism, non-violence, armed resistance, and social reforms. A is matched with 4: Sir Surendranath Banerjee was a key figure in early Indian nationalism, advocating for reforms within the framework of British rule. His book, A Nation in Making, reflects his vision for India’s future. B is matched with 1: Hind Swaraj was authored by M.K. Gandhi (1909) critiques Western civilization and advocates for self-rule through self-reliance, traditional values, and non-violence, marking a significant shift in nationalist thought. C is matched with 2: Subhas Chandra Bose wrote the The Indian Struggle (1942) which outlines his analysis of India’s independence movement and his call for more radical action against British colonialism. D is matched with 3: The Story of My Deportation (1908) by Lala Lajpat Rai is an Autobiographical writing.

Explanation

A is matched with 4: Abhinav Bharat Society was founded by V.D. Savarkar, a revolutionary nationalist group aimed at overthrowing British rule. The society was inspired by Giuseppe Mazzini’s Young Italy and played a significant role in organizing revolutionary activities in India and abroad. B is matched with 1: Anushilan Samiti was a revolutionary group based in Bengal, influenced by Aurobindo Ghosh. It aimed to achieve independence through armed revolution and was involved in several high-profile actions against British rule. C is matched with 2: Gadar Party was founded by Lala Hardayal and other Indian expatriates in the United States and Canada, and it aimed for armed rebellion against British rule. D is matched with 3: The Swaraj Party was founded in 1923 by Chittaranjan Das and Motilal Nehru after the suspension of the Non-Cooperation Movement. The party aimed to contest elections and obstruct British governance from within the legislative councils.