Question Of Identity

The fundamental question arising in the minds of Indians was about their identity and their nation’s purpose. In time, the answer formed that India belonged to its people, irrespective of their social, ethnic, or religious backgrounds. This realisation underscored the idea that under British rule, India’s resources and its people’s rights were being exploited, and that for India to truly be for the Indians, they needed to rid themselves of this colonial control.

Political Associations Post-1850

From 1850 onwards, and especially during the 1870s and 1880s, a series of political associations arose that voiced these sentiments. These associations were mainly led by English-educated professionals like lawyers. Notable among them were:

1.Poona Sarvajanik Sabha: The term ‘sarvajanik’ emphasises the idea of for all the people, reflecting an inclusive, pan-Indian vision.

2.Indian Association, Madras Mahajan Sabha, Bombay Presidency Association: Like the Poona Sarvajanik Sabha, these associations operated in specific regions but projected goals and aspirations that represented all Indians.

These associations played an essential role in the emergence of nationalism, emphasising the idea that people should be the decision-makers in their land.