Contributions of Odisha's Leaders - Exam Questions
Part A: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. Who is widely known as 'Utkal Gourav' for his pivotal role in the Odia linguistic movement?
a) Gopabandhu Das
b) Madhusudan Das
c) Krushna Chandra Gajapati
d) Harekrushna Mahtab
Answer: b) Madhusudan Das
Rationale: Madhusudan Das is universally recognized as the 'Father of Odia Nationalism' or 'Utkal Gourav'.
2. The Utkal Sammilani (Utkal Union Conference) was founded by which of the following leaders?
a) Gopabandhu Das
b) Madhusudan Das
c) Krushna Chandra Gajapati
d) Sarala Devi
Answer: b) Madhusudan Das
Rationale: Madhusudan Das founded the Utkal Sammilani in 1903 to unite Odia-speaking people.
3. Gopabandhu Das is fondly remembered by the title 'Utkalmani' for his contributions to Odisha. What does 'Utkalmani' mean?
a) Jewel of Utkal
b) Lion of Utkal
c) Father of Utkal
d) Builder of Utkal
Answer: a) Jewel of Utkal
Rationale: 'Utkalmani' translates to 'Jewel of Utkal' and reflects his profound impact.
4. The educational institution 'Satyabadi Bana Bidyalaya' (Satyabadi Forest School) was established by:
a) Madhusudan Das
b) Gopabandhu Das
c) Krushna Chandra Gajapati
d) Rama Devi
Answer: b) Gopabandhu Das
Rationale: Gopabandhu Das established this unique national school in 1909 to provide nationalist education.
5. Which leader from Odisha prominently advocated for the formation of a separate Odisha province at the Round Table Conferences in London?
a) Madhusudan Das
b) Gopabandhu Das
c) Maharaja Krushna Chandra Gajapati
d) Harekrushna Mahtab
Answer: c) Maharaja Krushna Chandra Gajapati
Rationale: His powerful advocacy at the RTCs was crucial for administrative recognition.
6. Who became the first Prime Minister (Premier) of the newly formed province of Odisha in 1937?
a) Gopabandhu Das
b) Harekrushna Mahtab
c) Madhusudan Das
d) Maharaja Krushna Chandra Gajapati
Answer: d) Maharaja Krushna Chandra Gajapati
Rationale: He led the first government of the new province.
7. Sarala Devi holds the distinction of being the first woman from Odisha to be:
a) Elected to the Indian National Congress President.
b) Elected to the Odisha Legislative Assembly.
c) Participate in the Dandi March.
d) Establish a national school.
Answer: b) Elected to the Odisha Legislative Assembly.
Rationale: She was elected to the Odisha Legislative Assembly in 1936.
8. Rama Devi, a prominent woman freedom fighter, played a significant role in which of the following movements in Odisha?
a) Khurda Rebellion
b) Non-Cooperation Movement and Salt Satyagraha
c) Santal Rebellion
d) Praja Mandal movement exclusively
Answer: b) Non-Cooperation Movement and Salt Satyagraha
Rationale: She actively participated in both, mobilizing women.
9. Malati Devi was actively involved in social reform work, particularly focusing on:
a) Abolition of child marriage and promotion of widow remarriage.
b) Rural upliftment, education, and welfare of tribal and backward classes.
c) Establishment of large-scale industries.
d) Promoting a separate Odia language script.
Answer: b) Rural upliftment, education, and welfare of tribal and backward classes.
Rationale: Her work focused on grassroots development and social justice.
10. Which of the following newspapers was founded by Gopabandhu Das and played a crucial role in nationalist awakening in Odisha?
a) Utkal Dipika
b) Asha
c) The Samaj
d) Prajatantra
Answer: c) The Samaj
Rationale: 'The Samaj' was a powerful voice for nationalism and social reform.
11. Madhusudan Das's contribution to industrial development in Odisha is exemplified by the establishment of:
a) Utkal Match Factory
b) Utkal Tannery
c) Odisha Cement Works
d) Orissa Textile Mills
Answer: b) Utkal Tannery
Rationale: He was a pioneer in industrial ventures in Odisha.
12. Rama Devi is sometimes referred to as 'Utkal Janani' (Mother of Odisha) or 'Mother Teresa of Odisha' in the context of her immense contribution to:
a) Only political leadership.
b) Social service and the freedom struggle.
c) Only educational reforms.
d) Revival of ancient Odia literature.
Answer: b) Social service and the freedom struggle.
Rationale: Her deep humanitarian work combined with her freedom struggle contributions earned her this title.
13. Malati Devi, along with her husband Nabakrushna Choudhury, was associated with which significant socio-political movement in the princely states of Odisha?
a) Quit India Movement
b) Non-Cooperation Movement
c) Praja Mandal Movement
d) Swadeshi Movement
Answer: c) Praja Mandal Movement
Rationale: They were key figures in the Praja Mandal movements advocating for responsible government in princely states.
14. What was the primary focus of Gopabandhu Das's social reform efforts?
a) Industrialization.
b) Eradication of untouchability and promotion of universal education.
c) Military training for youth.
d) Preservation of ancient monuments.
Answer: b) Eradication of untouchability and promotion of universal education.
Rationale: He was a staunch advocate for social equality and mass education.
15. Maharaja Krushna Chandra Gajapati's efforts primarily contributed to which specific aspect of Odisha's development?
a) Mass literacy campaigns.
b) The administrative formation of the separate province of Odisha.
c) Rural upliftment through Gandhian constructive programs.
d) The establishment of a separate Odia High Court.
Answer: b) The administrative formation of the separate province of Odisha.
Rationale: His role was central to securing the separate province.
Part B: Short Answer Questions
1. Who founded the Utkal Sammilani, and what was its main objective?
Answer: The Utkal Sammilani was founded by Madhusudan Das in 1903. Its main objective was the unification of all scattered Odia-speaking tracts under a single, separate administration.
2. What was 'Satyabadi Bana Bidyalaya', and who established it?
Answer: 'Satyabadi Bana Bidyalaya' (Satyabadi Forest School) was a unique national school established by Gopabandhu Das in 1909. It aimed to provide value-based education, combining modern learning with traditional Indian ideals and promoting nationalism.
3. Mention two key contributions of Maharaja Krushna Chandra Gajapati to the formation of Odisha province.
Answer: Two key contributions are: 1) His strong advocacy for a separate Odisha province at the Round Table Conferences in London, and 2) His crucial role in influencing British policymakers and later becoming the first Prime Minister of the newly formed province.
4. What unique distinction does Sarala Devi hold regarding women's participation in Odisha's political landscape?
Answer: Sarala Devi holds the distinction of being the first woman from Odisha to be elected to the Odisha Legislative Assembly in 1936.
5. Describe Rama Devi's role in the Salt Satyagraha in Odisha.
Answer: Rama Devi played a pioneering role in mobilizing women for the Salt Satyagraha in Odisha. She led batches of women volunteers to coastal areas like Inchudi and Kujanga, actively participated in breaking the salt law, and faced imprisonment, inspiring widespread women's participation.
6. Name the newspaper founded by Gopabandhu Das that played a vital role in the nationalist movement.
Answer: The newspaper founded by Gopabandhu Das was 'The Samaj'.
7. How did Madhusudan Das contribute to the industrial development of Odisha? Mention an example.
Answer: Madhusudan Das was a pioneer in industrial ventures, promoting indigenous industries in Odisha. An example is his establishment of the Utkal Tannery at Cuttack, which aimed to process hides and produce leather goods, providing employment and fostering self-reliance.
8. What were Malati Devi's primary areas of social reform work?
Answer: Malati Devi's primary areas of social reform work included rural upliftment, promotion of education (especially for girls), welfare of tribal communities and backward classes, and working for social justice.
9. Why is Gopabandhu Das known as 'Utkalmani'?
Answer: Gopabandhu Das is known as 'Utkalmani' (Jewel of Utkal) due to his multifaceted contributions as a selfless social worker, nationalist leader, educationist, journalist, and poet, who dedicated his life entirely to the service and upliftment of Odisha.
10. What was a significant common contribution of Sarala Devi, Rama Devi, and Malati Devi to the freedom struggle?
Answer: A significant common contribution was their pioneering role in mobilizing and galvanizing women's participation in the various phases of the Indian freedom struggle in Odisha, bringing women out of their homes into public life and protest.
Part C: Long Answer Questions (5-10 Marks Each)
1. Analyze the multifaceted contributions of Madhusudan Das, Gopabandhu Das, and Maharaja Krushna Chandra Gajapati to the socio-political awakening and the formation of the separate province of Odisha. (Approx. 10 marks)
Answer:
Madhusudan Das, Gopabandhu Das, and Maharaja Krushna Chandra Gajapati were three towering figures who, through their distinct yet complementary contributions, laid the foundation for modern Odisha, spearheaded its linguistic unification, and significantly shaped its socio-political landscape.
I. Madhusudan Das (Utkal Gourav, 1848-1934): The Pioneer and Architect of Odia Nationalism
Architect of Odia Identity: Madhusudan Das is rightly regarded as the 'Father of Odia Nationalism'. He was the first Odia to be a barrister and used his legal acumen and intellectual prowess to articulate the distinct identity and grievances of the Odia people.
Formation of Utkal Sammilani (1903): His most significant contribution was the founding of the Utkal Sammilani (Utkal Union Conference). This organization provided a unified platform for all scattered Odia-speaking tracts, transforming the linguistic demand into a coherent political movement. He tirelessly lobbied the British government for the amalgamation of Odia areas.
Linguistic and Cultural Revival: He championed the cause of the Odia language when it faced threats of suppression, promoting Odia literature and education.
Pioneer of Industry: He was a visionary entrepreneur, establishing indigenous industries like Utkal Tannery and the Orissa Art Ware, aiming for economic self-reliance and providing employment, demonstrating his practical approach to development.
Political Role: He served as a member of the Bengal Legislative Council and later as a minister in the Bihar-Odisha Council, using these platforms to advocate for Odia interests.
II. Gopabandhu Das (Utkalmani, 1877-1928): The Patriot, Social Reformer, and Educationist
The 'Jewel of Utkal': Gopabandhu Das epitomized selfless service and patriotic zeal. He was deeply influenced by Gandhian ideals and brought the national freedom struggle to the grassroots in Odisha.
Educationist and National School: His commitment to education for national awakening led him to establish the Satyabadi Bana Bidyalaya (Satyabadi Forest School) in 1909. This unique institution blended modern education with nationalist ideals, focusing on character building and service to the motherland.
Social Reformer: He was a fervent advocate for social equality, dedicating his life to eradicating untouchability and working for the upliftment of the poor and marginalized. He often spent his personal resources to help famine and flood victims.
Journalist and Nationalist Voice: He founded the nationalist newspaper 'The Samaj' (1919) and the monthly magazine 'Satyabadi'. These publications became powerful voices for the nationalist movement, social reform, and the Odia cause.
Non-Cooperation Movement: He was a prominent leader of the Non-Cooperation Movement in Odisha, mobilizing people against British rule through peaceful means, sacrificing his legal career and enduring imprisonment.
III. Maharaja Krushna Chandra Gajapati (1892-1974): The Statesman and Royal Advocate for Odisha
Princely State Ruler and Visionary: As the Maharaja of Paralakhemundi, Krushna Chandra Gajapati used his princely status and influence to tirelessly champion the cause of a separate Odisha province.
Advocacy at Round Table Conferences: His most decisive contribution was his eloquent and forceful representation of the Odia demand at the Round Table Conferences (1930-31) in London. He convinced British policymakers of the administrative and linguistic necessity of a separate Odisha province, playing a critical role in gaining imperial recognition.
First Premier of Odisha: Following the formation of the province, he became the first Prime Minister (Premier) of Odisha in 1937, leading the inaugural provincial government and laying the administrative foundations of the new state.
Developmental Vision: He was a forward-thinking ruler, initiating developmental projects in his own state and later advocating for broader development within the new province.
In conclusion, Madhusudan Das provided the intellectual foundation and organizational framework for the Odia movement. Gopabandhu Das infused it with a spirit of selfless nationalism, social reform, and mass mobilization. Maharaja Krushna Chandra Gajapati, leveraging his political influence, delivered the crucial breakthrough in British policy-making. Together, these three leaders represent the diverse facets of the struggle that culminated in the birth of the province of Odisha, a unique chapter in India's nationalist history.
2. Discuss the pioneering roles and significant contributions of Sarala Devi, Rama Devi, and Malati Devi in galvanizing women's participation in the Indian freedom struggle and their broader social reform efforts in Odisha. (Approx. 10 marks)
Answer:
Sarala Devi, Rama Devi, and Malati Devi were trailblazing women leaders who not only broke traditional barriers but also played indispensable roles in mobilizing women, participating actively in the freedom struggle, and pioneering social reform in Odisha. Their contributions exemplify the significant, often understated, role of women in the nationalist movement.
I. Sarala Devi (1904-1986): The Political Pioneer and Legislator
Early Political Activism: Sarala Devi was one of the earliest and most prominent women to actively join the Non-Cooperation Movement (1921) in Odisha, demonstrating remarkable courage by participating in public protests and facing imprisonment.
Salt Satyagraha: She actively participated in the Salt Satyagraha in Odisha, leading batches of women volunteers.
Pioneering Legislator: Her most significant distinction is being the first woman from Odisha to be elected to the Odisha Legislative Assembly in 1936. This was a landmark achievement, paving the way for greater women's representation in politics.
Literary Contributions: She was also a prolific writer, advocating for women's education and social emancipation through her writings. She published several essays, short stories, and plays, contributing to the intellectual awakening of women.
Women's Mobilization: She tirelessly toured villages, inspiring women to leave their homes and join the nationalist movement, emphasizing their equal role in the fight for freedom.
II. Rama Devi (1899-1985): The 'Mother of Odisha's Freedom Struggle' and Social Worker
Gandhian Devotion: Deeply influenced by Mahatma Gandhi, Rama Devi dedicated her entire life to the freedom struggle and social service. She became known as 'Ma' (Mother) or 'Mother Teresa of Odisha' for her selfless humanitarian work.
Active Participation in Major Movements: She was a key figure in all major Gandhian movements:
Non-Cooperation Movement: Actively participated in boycotts and Swadeshi campaigns.
Salt Satyagraha: She played a leading role in organizing and leading the Salt Satyagraha in coastal Odisha, including Inchudi and Kujanga, facing repeated arrests and imprisonment. She tirelessly worked to mobilize women for this movement.
Quit India Movement: She continued her activism during the Quit India Movement, even when most leaders were arrested, leading underground activities and facing severe repression.
Women's Mobilization: Rama Devi was instrumental in bringing women out of their domestic spheres into public life and political action. She organized countless women's meetings and trained women volunteers for nationalist activities.
Constructive Program and Social Service: After independence, she dedicated herself to Gandhian constructive programs, focusing on rural development, Bhoodan movement, and welfare activities for the poor and marginalized, demonstrating her lifelong commitment to social justice.
III. Malati Devi (1904-1998): The Crusader for Rural Upliftment and Tribal Rights
Grassroots Activist: Malati Devi, along with her husband Nabakrushna Choudhury (who later became Chief Minister of Odisha), was a dedicated grassroots activist, focusing on rural development and the welfare of the most marginalized sections of society.
Praja Mandal Movement: She was a prominent leader in the Praja Mandal movements in the princely states of Odisha (e.g., Dhenkanal, Talcher), advocating for responsible government and an end to feudal exploitation.
Education and Tribal Welfare: She established several schools and ashrams (e.g., Baanpur Ashram) to promote education, particularly among tribal and backward communities. She worked tirelessly for their upliftment and against social injustices.
Active in National Movements: She participated in the Non-Cooperation, Civil Disobedience, and Quit India Movements, facing imprisonment multiple times. During the Quit India Movement, she engaged in underground activities.
Formation of Utkal Congress: She was instrumental in advocating for the formation of a separate Utkal Congress in 1937, emphasizing provincial autonomy and Odia identity.
In conclusion, Sarala Devi, Rama Devi, and Malati Devi were not just passive participants but dynamic leaders who actively shaped the course of Odisha's nationalist struggle. They dismantled gender barriers, mobilized thousands of women into the political mainstream, and tirelessly worked for social justice and empowerment, leaving an indelible mark on the history of modern Odisha.
3. Select any three personalities from the given list (Madhusudan Das, Gopabandhu Das, Krushna Chandra Gajapati, Sarala Devi, Rama Devi, Malati Devi) and critically evaluate their distinct contributions that shaped different aspects (e.g., political, linguistic, social, educational, industrial) of Odisha's development during the colonial period. (Approx. 10 marks)
Answer:
Let's select Madhusudan Das, Gopabandhu Das, and Rama Devi to evaluate their distinct contributions to Odisha's development during the colonial period, encompassing political, linguistic, social, and educational dimensions.
I. Madhusudan Das (Political & Linguistic Awakening, Industrial Pioneer):
Linguistic Unification (Political): Madhusudan Das's most distinct and foundational contribution was his pioneering role in the movement for a separate Odia-speaking province. He transformed a vague sense of cultural identity into a concrete political demand. His tireless efforts led to the formation of the Utkal Sammilani (1903), which acted as the political voice for Odia unification for decades. He was the chief architect behind lobbying British officials, submitting petitions, and arguing the Odia case at various forums, ultimately leading to the province's creation.
Legal and Administrative Foundation: As the first Odia barrister, he brought legal acumen to the movement, ensuring a systematic and constitutional approach. His stint as a minister in the Bihar-Odisha Council provided valuable administrative experience that served as a blueprint for the future province.
Industrial Development (Economic): Uniquely among his contemporaries, Madhusudan Das was a visionary industrialist. He established the Utkal Tannery and Orissa Art Ware, demonstrating a practical approach to economic self-reliance. His efforts showcased that Odias could also engage in modern industries, fostering a sense of economic pride and providing employment. He aimed to revive the traditional artisan skills of Odisha and combine them with modern industrial practices.
Cultural & Educational Pioneer: He strongly advocated for Odia language and literature, contributing to the intellectual awakening among the educated elite.
II. Gopabandhu Das (Social Reformer, Educationist & Grassroots Nationalist):
Educationist and National School: Gopabandhu's distinct contribution was in the field of nationalist education. He believed in character-building education rooted in nationalistic ideals, leading to the establishment of the Satyabadi Bana Bidyalaya (1909). This was a pioneering effort to create an alternative to colonial education, fostering a spirit of service and patriotism among youth.
Social Reformer (Social): He was a deeply compassionate and committed social reformer. His efforts were distinct in their focus on the marginalized, particularly working for the eradication of untouchability, promotion of universal education, and alleviating the suffering of the poor during natural calamities (famines, floods). He lived among the common people and actively worked for their upliftment, earning him the title 'Utkalmani'.
Journalism and Mass Mobilization: Through his newspaper 'The Samaj' (1919), Gopabandhu brought nationalist ideas and social issues to the common people, making journalism a powerful tool for social and political awakening. He was instrumental in mobilizing the masses for the Non-Cooperation Movement, taking Gandhi's message to every corner of Odisha. His selfless leadership inspired countless volunteers.
III. Rama Devi (Pioneer of Women's Participation & Social Service):
Mobilization of Women (Social & Political): Rama Devi's most distinct contribution was her pioneering role in bringing women into the mainstream of the freedom struggle in Odisha. Before her, women's participation was largely confined to domestic roles. She broke this barrier, leading by example and inspiring thousands of women to join nationalist movements.
Active in Gandhian Movements: She actively participated in all major Gandhian movements, notably the Non-Cooperation Movement and leading the Salt Satyagraha in coastal Odisha (e.g., Inchudi, Kujanga), facing imprisonment multiple times. Her leadership provided a visible symbol of women's strength and defiance.
Social Service & Constructive Work: Beyond political activism, Rama Devi dedicated her life to social service. She was deeply involved in Gandhian constructive programs like promoting Khadi, working for rural upliftment, and later for the Bhoodan movement. Her humanitarian work, particularly during famines and floods, earned her the title 'Mother Teresa of Odisha'.
Symbol of Sacrifice: Her simple living, dedication, and repeated sacrifices (including facing jail) made her an icon for women's empowerment and a symbol of selfless service in Odisha.
In summary, Madhusudan Das provided the intellectual and organizational blueprint for Odia identity and political unification; Gopabandhu Das injected deep social reform, educational vision, and grassroots nationalism; and Rama Devi pioneered women's active political participation and exemplified selfless social service. Together, their distinct but intertwined contributions were indispensable in shaping the multi-faceted development and journey to self-determination for the people of Odisha.
