Which famous woman leader was present at the opening of Banaras Hindu University (BHU)?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → Annie Besant
Gandhiji’s first major public appearance in India was at the opening of the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in February 1916. Among the invitees were the princes and philanthropists whose donations had helped found the university, and important leaders of the Congress, such as Annie Besant. Compared to them Gandhiji was relatively unknown, yet in his speech he charged the Indian elite with a lack of concern for the labouring poor.
NCERT (2025-26): “1. A Leader Announces Himself … On Gokhale’s advice, Gandhiji spent a year travelling around British India, getting to know the land and its peoples. His first major public appearance was at the opening of the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in February 1916. Among the invitees to… …this event were the princes and philanthropists whose donations had contributed to the founding of the BHU. Also present were important leaders of the Congress, such as Annie Besant. Compared to these dignitaries, Gandhiji was relatively unknown. He had been invited on account of his work in South Africa, rather than his status within India.…” |