A pioneer of the Indian National Movement, Gopal Krishna Gokhale was one of the founding social and political leaders who fought all his life for India’s freedom from the British Empire. He was a leader with moderate reformist views, who aimed at achieving not only independence from British Raj but also endeavoured to bring social reforms in the Indian society and political reforms within the existing government institutions, through non-violent means. Through his relentless petitions, agitations and persuasions, he was able to influence the Britishers to recognize the capabilities of educated Indians and include them in the governing process. Throughout his life, Gokhale was involved with a wide range of public and legislative bodies. He served in the Imperial Legislative Council, became the President of the Indian National Congress and founded the famed Servants of the India Society. He also influenced greatly the two important personalities of Indian national movement, Gandhi and Muhammad Ali Jinnah, both of whom regarded Gokhale as their mentor.
