Born on September 4, 1825, in Bombay (Mumbai), Dadabhai Naoroji is celebrated as the Grand Old Man of India for his unwavering dedication to India’s freedom struggle and social reform. Hailing from a priestly Parsi family, Naoroji distinguished himself early in life through academic brilliance. A graduate of Elphinstone College, his exceptional performance earned him the Clare Scholarship, and he became the first Indian professor at Elphinstone College in 1845.
His career trajectory took him to London, where he joined Cama & Co., the first Indian company in the city. By 1859, he established his own firm, Naoroji & Co., and later became a Professor of Gujarati at University College London. Throughout his life, Dadabhai Naoroji wore many hats: politician, economist, social reformer, and scholar, leaving an indelible mark on India’s history.
Views on British Rule
Naoroji was a staunch critic of British colonial policies and their detrimental impact on India.
- Drain Theory: Naoroji is renowned for his “Drain of Wealth” theory, presented in his seminal work, Poverty and Un-British Rule in India. He argued that the British systematically drained India’s wealth and resources to enrich themselves.
- According to Naoroji, this drain occurred through:
- High administrative costs borne by Indians for British officials.
- Unfair trade policies benefiting British industries at the expense of Indian artisans and farmers.
- Salaries and pensions paid to non-Indians in British service.
- Heavy interest on public debt owed to Britain.
- He concluded that these policies had impoverished India while Britain thrived on its exploitation.
- According to Naoroji, this drain occurred through:
- Economic Impact: Naoroji’s arguments highlighted how British rule stifled Indian economic growth by preventing local industries from flourishing and perpetuating poverty and unemployment.
- His critique provided an economic basis for the independence movement, uniting Indians against colonial exploitation.
Political Contributions
Naoroji’s political journey reflects his relentless pursuit of justice for India.
- Municipal and Legislative Roles: In 1875, Naoroji joined the Bombay Municipal Corporation and later the Bombay Legislative Council in 1885, where he championed reforms and voiced Indian grievances.
- Founding of Organizations: He was instrumental in founding the East India Association in London in 1867, which sought to present Indian concerns to the British public. This association later inspired the formation of the Indian National Congress.
- Naoroji also played a key role in establishing the Bombay Presidency Association in 1885, furthering his commitment to Indian self-governance.
- First Indian Member of the British Parliament: In 1892, Naoroji became the first Indian to be elected to the British Parliament, representing the Liberal Party for Central Finsbury. During his tenure, he advocated for Indian welfare, voicing issues like taxation and administrative reforms.
- Congress Presidency: Naoroji served as President of the Indian National Congress on three occasions:
- 1886 (Calcutta Session): Advocated for Indian self-rule.
- 1893 (Lahore Session): Focused on economic reform.
- 1906 (Calcutta Session): Declared the demand for Swaraj (self-rule), marking a pivotal moment in India’s independence movement.
- Advocate for Indian Representation: Naoroji consistently pushed for greater Indian representation in government and the civil services, emphasizing the need for equality between Indians and the British.
Role in India’s Freedom Struggle
Naoroji’s contributions to the independence movement were both pioneering and foundational.
- Early Initiatives: In 1867, Naoroji founded the East India Association, which served as a platform for articulating Indian perspectives in Britain.
- As Dewan of Baroda in 1874, Naoroji worked to reform governance but resigned within a year due to differences with the Maharaja.
- Voice of India: Through his writings and speeches, Naoroji exposed the economic exploitation of India, rallying support for self-rule.
- He emphasized the importance of education, economic independence, and social reforms as prerequisites for political freedom.
- National Planning: Naoroji envisioned a prosperous India based on equitable policies and indigenous industries. His economic insights inspired later leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru.
- Collaboration with Reformers: Naoroji maintained close relationships with Indian and British reformers, including Allan Octavian Hume, Gopal Krishna Gokhale, and Badruddin Tyabji. This diverse network helped amplify his efforts.
Social Reforms
- Advocacy for Women’s Education: Naoroji championed women’s education and worked to dismantle societal barriers that restricted their access to learning.
- As a professor at Elphinstone College, he actively promoted women’s education through special classes.
- Zoroastrian Principles: As a devout Parsi, Naoroji upheld the teachings of Zoroastrianism, emphasizing purity in thought, speech, and action. His book, The Duties of the Zoroastrians, highlighted these values.
- Equality and Justice: Naoroji’s vision extended beyond politics. He sought to create a society rooted in justice, equality, and respect for all communities, irrespective of caste or religion.
Legacy and Influence
Dadabhai Naoroji’s legacy is that of a visionary leader whose ideas laid the foundation for India’s independence.
- Economic Nationalism: His Drain Theory provided a powerful critique of colonial exploitation and became a rallying point for Indian nationalists.
- Swaraj and Self-Governance: As one of the first leaders to articulate the demand for Swaraj, Naoroji inspired generations of freedom fighters.
- Bridge Between Cultures: Naoroji’s ability to navigate both Indian and British societies made him a crucial intermediary, fostering understanding and building alliances.
- Role Model for Future Leaders: Leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Bal Gangadhar Tilak drew inspiration from Naoroji’s commitment to justice and reform.
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Conclusion
Dadabhai Naoroji’s life was a testament to his unwavering dedication to India’s freedom and welfare. As a scholar, economist, and political leader, he broke barriers and paved the way for future generations. His pioneering efforts in articulating the economic exploitation of India and his leadership in the early years of the Indian National Congress solidified his place as a foundational figure in India’s independence movement.
