The Indian freedom struggle, spanning several decades, witnessed a variety of ideologies, strategies, and methods. Two major factions within the Indian National Congress (INC) during the early phase of the movement were the Moderates and the Extremists. Each of these groups contributed significantly to India’s struggle for independence, albeit in different ways. While both sought…
Tag: political-science
Role of Jyotiba Phule as a Social Revolutionary
Jyotirao Phule (1827-1890) was one of the pioneering social reformers and a prominent figure in the social and educational renaissance of India during the 19th century. His revolutionary ideas and actions were pivotal in challenging the entrenched social hierarchies, particularly the caste system, and in promoting education and social justice. Phule’s work primarily focused on…
The Different Strands of Nationalism in India
Nationalism in India is a multifaceted concept, deeply rooted in the country’s long history of colonialism, cultural diversity, and socio-political movements. Over the course of India’s struggle for independence, various strands of nationalism evolved, each influenced by different social, political, and economic factors. These strands of nationalism were shaped by the diverse leadership, ideologies, and…
Religio-political Ideas of Dayanand Saraswati
Dayanand Saraswati (1824–1883) was one of the foremost social and religious reformers in 19th-century India, whose thoughts and ideas played a pivotal role in shaping modern Hinduism and Indian society. His religious-political ideas were influential in the context of India’s struggle for social reform and its engagement with colonialism. As the founder of the Arya…
Nature of State and Sovereignty in Medieval India
The nature of the state and sovereignty in medieval India can be understood through its complex political structure, which evolved significantly over the centuries, shaped by various dynasties, Islamic rulers, and indigenous traditions. Medieval Indian states were characterized by a combination of decentralization, regional autonomy, and strong central control depending on the dynasty in power….
Brief History of the Socialist Movement in India
The socialist movement in India has a rich and complex history that spans over a century. It played a crucial role in shaping the country’s political landscape, particularly during the pre-independence and post-independence periods. The movement, with its emphasis on social justice, equality, and state intervention in the economy, was a response to the exploitation…
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s Views on Social and Economic Democracy
Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, a prominent Indian scholar, social reformer, and the principal architect of the Indian Constitution, is known for his unwavering commitment to social justice, equality, and economic democracy. Ambedkar’s views on democracy were not confined to the political realm alone but extended to both social and economic spheres. He saw political democracy,…
Jawaharlal Nehru’s Understanding of Scientific Humanism
Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first Prime Minister, was deeply influenced by a vision of progress and modernity based on scientific reasoning, secular values, and humanist principles. His understanding of scientific humanism played a pivotal role in shaping India’s post-independence political and social landscape. Nehru viewed scientific humanism as a framework for both individual and collective progress,…
M.K. Gandhi’s Views on Swaraj, Sarvodaya, and Swadeshi
Mahatma Gandhi’s political and philosophical ideas were instrumental in shaping India’s freedom movement and its ethical foundations. Among his central concepts were Swaraj (self-rule), Sarvodaya (welfare of all), and Swadeshi (self-sufficiency and indigenous production). These were not isolated ideals but deeply interconnected, forming the moral and strategic framework of his vision for India’s independence and…
Critically Evaluate E.V. Ramaswamy Naicker’s Contribution to the Dravidian Movement
E.V. Ramaswamy Naicker, popularly known as Periyar, was a prominent social reformer, politician, and ideologue in South India, particularly in Tamil Nadu. His contributions to the Dravidian movement and the larger social reform landscape of India were profound and continue to shape the region’s political and social discourse today. Periyar was a vocal critic of…
Examine M.A. Jinnah’s Role in the Development of Muslim Nationalism
Muhammad Ali Jinnah (1876–1948), often referred to as the “Father of the Nation” in Pakistan, is one of the most pivotal figures in the history of South Asia. His role in the development of Muslim nationalism in India and the subsequent creation of Pakistan is of immense historical significance. Jinnah’s political career and ideological evolution…
Hindu Nationalism of V.D. Savarkar
Vinayak Damodar Savarkar (1883–1966) is a highly influential figure in the history of Indian nationalism, particularly associated with the development of Hindu nationalism. His ideas and writings, especially in his work Hindutva: Who is a Hindu? (1923), were critical in shaping the ideological foundations of the Hindu nationalist movement. Savarkar’s concept of Hindu nationalism, which…