CDS 2018 (II)

Modern Indian Socio-Religious Movements

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Which organization was started at the Haridwar Kumbh Mela in 1915?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: D

Concept The early 20th century saw the emergence of communal and nationalist organizations that sought to mobilize religious identities within the framework of British colonial politics.

Explanation The Hindu Mahasabha was officially established in 1915 during the Kumbh Mela in Haridwar. It was led by Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya along with other prominent Hindu leaders.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: The organization aimed to protect the interests and rights of the Hindu community in British India.
Logic 2: Choosing the Kumbh Mela for the launch was strategic, as it provided a massive platform to reach Hindu pilgrims from across the country.

Active Recall

Question

Who was the primary figure behind the 1915 Hindu Mahasabha?

Answer

Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, who was also the founder of the Banaras Hindu University (BHU).

Core Insight

The foundation of the Hindu Mahasabha marked a shift toward organized Hindu political representation during the independence movement.