Who was Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee and what was his role in independent India?

Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee was an Indian politician, educationist, and founder of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh. After India’s independence in 1947, he became a member of the Constituent Assembly and served as Industry and Supply Minister in Jawaharlal Nehru’s Cabinet from 1948 to 1950. He played a key role in industrial initiatives such as the Damodar Valley Corporation, Sindri Fertiliser Factory, Chittaranjan Locomotive Works, and Hindustan Aircraft in Bangalore.

Did Mahatma Gandhi support the inclusion of Syama Prasad Mookerjee in the first Cabinet of India?

Yes. Despite Mookerjee being associated with the Hindu Mahasabha, Mahatma Gandhi insisted that he be included in independent India’s first Cabinet. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel played a decisive role in inducting both Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee into the Cabinet.

Why did Syama Prasad Mookerjee resign from Nehru’s Cabinet?

Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee resigned from Nehru’s Cabinet in April 1950 due to disagreements over the Nehru-Liaquat Pact and the government’s approach toward Indo-Pakistan relations, particularly concerning the welfare of Hindu minorities in East Bengal. His resignation marked a turning point in opposition politics and eventually led to the formation of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh.

Who wrote the book Hindu Pad-Padshahi?

Hindu Pad-Padshahi was written by Vinayak Damodar Savarkar. The book analyzes the rise of the Maratha Empire and advocates the concept of a Hindu nation. It was not written by Syama Prasad Mookerjee.

What historical event does the play The Storming and Capture of Delhi depict?

The play The Storming and Capture of Delhi depicts the Revolt of 1857, also known as the Indian Rebellion of 1857. It dramatizes the siege and recapture of Delhi by British forces. The play premiered in London in November 1857, shortly after Delhi was recaptured on September 20, 1857.

Where was The Storming and Capture of Delhi first performed?

The play was first performed at Astley’s Royal Amphitheatre in London. It premiered on November 25, 1857, just over two months after British forces recaptured Delhi during the Revolt of 1857.

What is Ryndia and why is it significant?

Ryndia is a traditional, sustainable Eri silk fabric from Meghalaya, India. It is also known as ‘peace silk’ or ‘ahimsa silk’ because the silkworms are not harmed during production. Handwoven by women artisans, Ryndia has received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, recognizing its cultural heritage and artisanal value.

Who wrote Gandhi: His Life and Message for the World?

Gandhi: His Life and Message for the World was written by Louis Fischer. Other notable Gandhi biographies include Mahatma: Life of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi by D.G. Tendulkar and Mahatma Gandhi: The Last Phase by Pyarelal.

Who described the Revolt of 1857 as one of the most just and noble revolts in history?

Ernest Charles Jones, a poet and Chartist leader in Britain, described the Revolt of 1857 as 'one of the most just, noble, and necessary ever attempted in the history of the world.' He wrote this in his working-class journal The People’s Paper in September 1857.

Was British opinion united during the Revolt of 1857?

No. Although many in Britain demanded harsh retaliation against Indian rebels, voices like Ernest Charles Jones supported the revolt, demonstrating that British opinion was not entirely uniform during the events of 1857.

Daily UPSC Prelims MCQs - History & Culture - 16th May 2026

Devesh
May 16
1 min read

Test your UPSC CSE 2026 preparation with today’s Indian History & Culture (Every Saturday) Quiz — covering Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee, The Storming and Capture of Delhi, Ryndia, 1857 Revolt and more.

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