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Madan Mohan Malviya
About:
Madan Mohan Malviya was a prominent Indian scholar, educational reformer, and politician born on December 25, 1861, in Allahabad. He played a significant role in the Indian independence movement and is best known for founding the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in 1916, which remains one of the largest residential universities in Asia. Malviya served as the university’s vice-chancellor from 1919 to 1938 and was deeply committed to promoting modern education among Indians.
Contributions to India’s Freedom Struggle:
- Leadership in the Indian National Congress: Malviya was a key figure within the Indian National Congress, serving as its president four times. His political career began at the 1886 Congress session, where he became actively involved in advocating for Indian rights and self-rule.
- Promotion of Hindu Nationalism: In addition to his work with the Congress, Malviya founded the Akhil Bharat Hindu Mahasabha in 1906, which sought to unite various Hindu nationalist movements. His efforts were aimed at protecting Hindu interests during a time of increasing communal tensions.
- Advocacy for Social Issues: Malviya was also involved in social reform movements, including efforts to eradicate untouchability and promote the welfare of marginalised communities. He played a role in founding organisations like the Harijan Sevak Sangh to support these causes.
- Media Influence: He established several newspapers and periodicals, such as Abhyudaya and The Leader, to raise awareness about national issues and mobilise public opinion against British rule.
“Responsivists” Label:
- Madan Mohan Malviya is often associated with the term “Responsivists,” which emerged from a faction within the Swaraj Party during the 1920s.
- This group advocated for cooperation with the British government rather than complete non-cooperation, which was championed by leaders like Mahatma Gandhi.
- The Responsivists believed that engaging with the government was essential for protecting Hindu interests and achieving gradual reforms.
- Key figures alongside Malviya included Lala Lajpat Rai and N.C. Kelkar, who collectively argued that participation in legislative processes could serve as a means to secure rights for Indians while maintaining a semblance of political engagement with colonial authorities.
