Question

Explain how the print culture assisted the growth of nationalism in India.
Or
Role of novels were different for colonisers and nationalists. Explain.

Answer 1

i) By the end of 19th century, a large number of newspapers in Indian vernacular languages were published.

(ii) These newspapers published articles written by national leaders. Their ideas were communicated to people through these newspapers.

(iii) The people of different communities and places were thus connected by print media. Newspapers conveyed news from one place to another creating pan-Indian identity.

(iv) The nationalist newspapers exposed the colonial misrule and encouraged nationalist activities. As these were written in spoken languages of various regions common man could easily understand the content.

(v) When Punjab revolutionaries were deported in 1907, Balagangadhar Tilak wrote articles sympathising with them. He was arrested which provoked protest among masses.

Thus it is clear, print culture assisted the growth of nationalism in India.