Who hailed Gandhiji as being ‘without doubt made of the stuff of which heroes and martyrs are made ?

The correct answer is - Gopal Krishna Gokhale

Key Points

• Gopal Krishna Gokhale
  • Gopal Krishna Gokhale, a prominent leader of the Indian National Movement, was known for his moderate political stance and belief in constitutional methods to achieve self-rule.
  • He recognized Mahatma Gandhi's potential early on and hailed him as a leader "without doubt made of the stuff of which heroes and martyrs are made."
  • Gokhale served as a mentor to Gandhi, guiding him during his early years in Indian politics after Gandhi's return from South Africa in 1915.
  • This statement reflects Gokhale's deep respect for Gandhi's character, commitment to truth, and his philosophy of non-violence.

Additional Information

• Role of Gopal Krishna Gokhale in Indian Freedom Movement
  • Gokhale was a senior leader in the Indian National Congress and played a significant role in shaping the moderate phase of the freedom struggle.
  • He founded the Servants of India Society in 1905 to promote education, social reforms, and self-reliance among Indians.
  • As a member of the Imperial Legislative Council, Gokhale advocated for reforms in education, public services, and policies affecting the poor.
• Gokhale's Influence on Gandhi
  • Gokhale encouraged Gandhi to understand Indian society's complexities and adopt a pragmatic approach to socio-political issues.
  • He emphasized the importance of self-discipline, public service, and non-violent methods, which became central to Gandhi's philosophy.
• Gandhi's Early Political Journey
  • After returning to India in 1915, Gandhi traveled extensively to understand the country's socio-economic conditions, following Gokhale's advice.
  • Gokhale's mentorship helped Gandhi transition from a lawyer in South Africa to a leader of India's masses.