Q. Annie Besant was

  1. responsible for starting the Home Rule Movement.
  2. the founder of the Theosophical Society.
  3. once the President of the Indian National Congress.

Select the correct statement/statements using the codes given below.

  • 1 only
  • 2 and 3 only
  • 1 and 3 only
  • 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (c) 1 and 3 only

Notes:
  • Annie Besant was a British social reformer and activist whose work left an indelible mark on Indian history. Renowned for her leadership in the Theosophical Society, Besant played a pivotal role in the revival of theosophy. Her efforts in education played a significant role in establishing many educational institutions in India, including those focused on women’s education.
  • Annie Besant passionately advocated for Indian self-rule, becoming a key figure in the Home Rule Movement. Her involvement also included presiding over the Indian National Congress session in 1917. Her leadership and dedication to India’s cause contributed to the broader struggle for independence.
  • Biography:
    • Born on October 1, 1847, in London, Annie Besant was early inclined toward intellectual and social reform.
    • After her marriage to Reverend Frank Besant, she became disillusioned with her conservative environment and pursued a more independent path.
    • Her early association with Charles Bradlaugh introduced her to secularism and the Free Thought Movement, which laid the foundation for her reformist zeal.
  • Journey of Annie Besant to Theosophy and India
    • Besant’s quest for spiritual understanding led her to the Theosophical Society, co-founded by Helena Blavatsky.
    • She embraced Theosophy, a spiritual movement emphasising the unity of all religions and the quest for divine truth.
    • In 1893, Besant arrived in India, where she found her life’s mission. She believed India to be the cradle of spiritual wisdom and was deeply inspired by its ancient traditions.
    • Her work with the Theosophical Society gained momentum in India, where she propagated the idea of universal brotherhood, education, and spiritual rejuvenation.
  • Bal Gangadhar Tilak:
    • He set up his Indian Home Rule League in April 1916.
    • Tilak held his first Home Rule meeting at Belgaum.
    • Poona was the headquarters of his league.
    • His league was restricted to Maharashtra (excluding Bombay city), Karnataka, Central Provinces and Berar.
    • It had six branches and the demands included Swarajya, the formation of linguistic states and education in the vernacular.