The 154th birth anniversary of Gopal Krishna Gokhale was marked by special commemorations from the current Prime Minister. Known for his contribution to social reform, education, and India’s freedom movement, Gokhale’s legacy continues to be remembered and revered in modern times.
Gokhale’s Early Life
Born into a Brahmin family on May 9, 1866, Gopal Krishna Gokhale hailed from a small village known as Kotluk, which is located in what is now Maharashtra but was, at the time of his birth, part of the Bombay Presidency.
Formative Ideologies
Gokhale’s commitment to social empowerment and the expansion of education spanned over three decades. Notably, he shunned any reactionary or revolutionary methodologies in favor of peaceful struggle for India’s freedom.
Gokhale in Colonial Legislatures
Between 1899 and 1902, Gokhale served on the Bombay Legislative Council before moving on to the Imperial Legislative Council from 1902 until his death in 1915. While serving at the Imperial legislature, Gokhale played a vital role in framing the Morley-Minto reforms of 1909.
Role within the Indian National Congress
Gokhale joined the Indian National Congress (INC) in 1889 as part of the Moderate Group. He ascended to the role of president within the INC during the Banaras session in 1905. This period was marked by significant ideological differences between the ‘Moderates’ led by Gokhale and the ‘Extremists’, who were led by Lala Lajpat Rai and Bal Gangadhar Tilak. Despite these ideological cleavages, Gokhale campaigned tirelessly for the release of Lala Lajpat Rai in 1907 when the latter was imprisoned by the British.
Contributions to Societies and Journalism
In 1905, Gokhale founded the Servants of India Society, which aimed at expanding Indian education. He was also affiliated with the Sarvajanik Sabha journal, established by Govind Ranade. An ardent advocate for economic knowledge, Gokhale went on to establish the Ranade Institute of Economics in 1908. His contributions to journalism include founding the English weekly newspaper, The Hitavada (The people’s paper).
Mentorship to Gandhi
A respected figure among liberal nationalists, Gokhale was considered a political guru by Mahatma Gandhi. In honor of his mentor, Gandhi wrote a book in Gujarati entitled ‘Dharmatma Gokhale’.
Last Modified: February 7, 2024