Lokmanya Tilak
Source: PIB
GS I: Modern Indian history from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present- significant events, personalities, issues
Overview
- Early Life and Education
- The Birth of a Nationalist
- Legacy and Impact
Why in the News?
India recently paid tributes to Lokmanya Tilak on his birth anniversary.
Early Life and Education
- Bal Gangadhar Tilak was born on July 23, 1856, in Ratnagiri, which is now part of Maharashtra.
- His family belonged to the Marathi Hindu Chitpavan Brahmin community.
- His father, Gangadhar Tilak, was a school teacher and a Sanskrit scholar.
- Tragically, Gangadhar passed away when Tilak was just sixteen years old.
- Despite this loss, young Tilak pursued education with determination.
Tilak’s educational journey took him to the Deccan College in Pune, where he excelled in mathematics. He obtained his Bachelor of Arts degree with first-class honors. However, he veered away from his Master’s degree to join the L.L.B. course, eventually earning his law degree from Government Law College.
The Birth of a Nationalist
- Tilak’s passion for social reform and national awakening led him to become a journalist.
- He believed that religion and practical life were intertwined, emphasizing service to humanity and the nation.
- Inspired by Vishnushastri Chiplunkar, he co-founded the New English School in 1880, aiming to provide modern education to Indian youth.
- His vision extended beyond mere education; he wanted to ignite a sense of national pride and self-awareness among the masses.
Swaraj and the Battle Cry
Tilak’s most famous slogan, “Swaraj is my birthright, and I shall have it!” reverberated across the country. He was one of the earliest and most vocal advocates of self-rule (Swaraj). His fiery editorials in newspapers like Kesari and Maratha galvanized the masses. He believed that political freedom was essential for India’s progress and that the British colonial rulers must be challenged relentlessly.
Lal Bal Pal Triumvirate
Tilak was part of the Lal Bal Pal triumvirate, along with Lala Lajpat Rai (Lala), and Bipin Chandra Pal (Pal). Together, they championed the cause of independence, emphasizing the need for self-reliance, self-respect, and self-rule. Their collective efforts energized the freedom movement.
Legacy and Impact
- Father of the Indian Unrest: The British colonial authorities labeled Tilak as “The father of the Indian unrest.” His relentless pursuit of freedom and his ability to mobilize the masses made him a thorn in their side.
- Lokmanya: The people affectionately called him “Lokmanya,” meaning “accepted by the people as their leader.” His influence extended far beyond political circles.
- Maker of Modern India: Mahatma Gandhi himself acknowledged Tilak’s pivotal role in shaping India’s destiny. His ideas and actions laid the groundwork for the nation we know today.
Tilak Memorial: A Tribute
- In Mumbai (formerly Bombay), a memorial is a tribute to this great soul.
- The Tilak Memorial was a gift from the people of Bombay, honouring the man who fought tirelessly for Swaraj.
- It symbolizes his legacy and the collective spirit of a nation yearning for freedom.
- Bal Gangadhar Tilak’s legacy lives on—a beacon for those who believe in the power of courage, conviction, and unwavering commitment to justice.
- His words continue to echo: “Swaraj is my birthright, and I shall have it!”.
- Remembering Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak—a true hero of India’s struggle for independence.
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