How was the sense of collective belonging developed during the Indian freedom movement in Class 10? Explain!
Short Answer:
The sense of collective belonging during the Indian freedom movement was cultivated through symbols like the national flag, revival of cultural pride, shared hardships under colonial rule, and widespread participation in unifying movements such as Swadeshi, Non-Cooperation, and Civil Disobedience.
Detailed Answer:
The Indian freedom movement effectively united people from diverse backgrounds by fostering a strong sense of collective belonging.
This was achieved through multiple initiatives, including cultural, symbolic, and political efforts:
- Use of Symbols:
a. The Indian national flag became a unifying symbol during the struggle. Its tricolour design, along with the spinning wheel (charkha), symbolised India’s aspirations for unity and self-reliance.
b. Patriotic songs like Vande Mataram resonated deeply with people, evoking pride and a sense of solidarity. - Revival of Cultural Heritage:
a. Nationalist leaders emphasised India’s rich cultural and historical heritage to instill pride in its past.
b. Mahatma Gandhi promoted khadi and the charkha as symbols of economic self-reliance and resistance to British goods, reinforcing unity through shared practices. - Mass Participation in Movements:
a. The Swadeshi Movement urged people to reject British goods and embrace indigenous products, fostering a sense of economic independence and unity.
b. Non-Cooperation and Civil Disobedience Movements involved people across regions, religions, and social classes, creating a national identity united against colonial rule. - Folk Traditions and Regional Heroes: Folklore, traditional festivals, and stories of regional heroes were used to inspire and connect communities. These narratives helped people relate their local struggles to the broader national cause.
- Shared Struggles Under Colonial Rule: The collective experience of exploitation under British taxation policies, economic hardships, and social injustices united people in opposition to colonial oppression.
By integrating these elements, the freedom movement transformed a diverse and fragmented population into a cohesive force driven by the shared goal of independence. This collective belonging transcended regional and cultural differences, making the freedom struggle a unifying social and cultural revolution.