Q. An expatriate, a gifted linguist, an assistant of the Oxford Sanskritist, Sir Monier Monier-Williams, later a full time worker for the Indian national cause in England, who came under the spell of Herbert Spencer, refers to:
(a) Chhaganlal Gandhi
(b) Shyamji Krishna Varma
(c) V Chattopadhyaya
(d) Pranjivan Mehta
Ans: (b) Shyamji Krishna Varma
Explanation: The correct answer is (b) Shyamji Krishna Varma.
Shyamji Krishna Varma was an expatriate, a gifted linguist, and a prominent figure in the Indian national movement. He initially worked as an assistant to the renowned Oxford Sanskritist, Sir Monier Monier-Williams. However, he later became a full-time worker for the Indian national cause in England.
Under the influence of philosopher Herbert Spencer, Shyamji Krishna Varma became deeply involved in political activism and advocacy for Indian independence. He played a pivotal role in establishing the Indian Home Rule Society and later founded the famous “India House” in London in 1905. India House became a center for Indian nationalist activities and a gathering place for Indian students studying in England.
Shyamji Krishna Varma’s efforts were instrumental in mobilizing Indian students and intellectuals in England and promoting the cause of Indian independence. He also provided support and mentorship to several prominent Indian nationalist leaders, including Veer Savarkar.