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Gopal Krishna Gokhale Biography: Moderate Leader of Indian Freedom Struggle

Gopal Krishna Gokhale Biography

Gopal Krishna Gokhale was one of the most respected leaders of the Indian freedom struggle. Known for his moderate views, strong belief in reform through constitutional means, and as a mentor to Mahatma Gandhi, Gokhale made a lasting contribution to India’s independence movement.

Early Life and Education

Gopal Krishna Gokhale was born on 9 May 1866 in Kotluk village, Maharashtra, into a Chitpavan Brahmin family. Despite financial struggles, he excelled in academics and went on to graduate from Elphinstone College, Bombay, in 1884. His exposure to Western political thought and Indian reformist ideas shaped his philosophy of social and political change.

Entry into Public Life

Gokhale’s career began as a professor of history and political economy at Fergusson College, Pune. Later, he joined the Indian National Congress and became a key figure in shaping its policies. He believed that gradual reform, education, and constitutional methods were the best path toward self-governance.

Political Philosophy

Unlike extremists like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Gokhale represented the moderate faction of the Congress. He advocated for:

  • Gradual reform rather than immediate independence
  • Cooperation with the British government where possible
  • Social reforms including education, eradication of caste barriers, and women’s empowerment

His calm, rational approach often contrasted with the aggressive nationalism of his contemporaries, but his influence was undeniable.

Servants of India Society

In 1905, Gokhale founded the Servants of India Society to train Indians in social service and nation-building. The organization focused on education, public health, and poverty reduction, reflecting his belief that freedom would be meaningful only with social progress.

Mentor to Mahatma Gandhi

One of Gokhale’s greatest contributions was his mentorship of Mahatma Gandhi. When Gandhi returned from South Africa, Gokhale guided him in understanding India’s social and political conditions. Gandhi considered Gokhale as his “political guru” and admired his dedication to truth, service, and reform.

Legacy

Gopal Krishna Gokhale passed away on 19 February 1915, at the age of 48. Though his life was short, his impact was profound. He is remembered as a reformer, teacher, and political thinker who laid the foundation for India’s freedom struggle in a constitutional framework.

His ideas of social justice, education, and moderate politics continue to inspire generations

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