On the solemn occasion of Gopal Krishna Gokhale’s death anniversary, a chorus of voices from India’s political leadership united in reverence for the liberal thinker who blended constitutional advocacy with fervent social reform.
Kicking off the commemorations, Home Minister Amit Shah shared on social media: Gokhale connected youth to the freedom struggle, fought untouchability, and fearlessly voiced opinions on matters of national importance. ‘Naman to Gopal Krishna Gokhale ji on his punyatithi,’ he concluded.
Nitin Gadkari, the Road Transport Minister, described Gokhale as ‘the architect of freedom through legal politics—a master statesman, social icon, and reformer extraordinaire,’ extending his deepest respects.
From Lucknow, Yogi Adityanath portrayed Gokhale’s work as ‘an eternal treasure for nation-building through ideological guidance in the independence movement and social progress.’ He affirmed that Gokhale’s thoughts would eternally motivate democratic ethos.
In Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma delved into Gokhale’s multifaceted impact: ‘A visionary in constitutional changes, education outreach, and social equity, he instilled honesty and ethical duty in public service as national ethos. We honor his contributions today.’
Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge cast Gokhale as a towering independence leader and Gandhi’s mentor, whose battle against British rule lights the path to justice and self-reliance for future generations.
This outpouring of respect revives interest in Gokhale’s profound footprint on modern India. A product of the Deccan region, he rose through the Indian National Congress as its moderate face, clashing yet collaborating with extremists. His 1905 establishment of the Servants of India Society marked a commitment to selfless public service, influencing policies on famine relief, plague control, and Swadeshi promotion.
Gokhale’s death in 1915 left a void, but his emphasis on gradual reform over revolution continues to resonate. In today’s polarized politics, these tributes signal a shared appreciation for his moderate wisdom and reformist zeal.