1 year ago
Indian Diaspora in London Fought for Independence
During India's fight for freedom from British rule, many Indians living in London also got involved!
Some were servants or sailors, and many went to study there.
They formed groups, started magazines, and held meetings to talk about freedom and equal rights.
People like Sarojini Naidu and V K Krishna Menon helped lead the movement from afar.
They aimed to spread the word and get support for India's independence, even if it was tough to make a big difference from so far away.
Indian diaspora in early 20th-century London played a role in the Indian independence movement.
Early Indian migrants to Britain included domestic servants (ayahs) and lascars (ex-sailors).
Institutions like India House and the London Muslim League were hubs for independence activities.
Indian students and intellectuals in London formed political groups and published anti-colonial writings.
The India League advocated for civil liberties and independence, later campaigning against the imprisonment of Indian leaders.
- Who
- Indian diaspora, including students, intellectuals, and activists, such as Sarojini Naidu, V K Krishna Menon, and Shyamji Krishnavarma.
- What
- The role of the Indian diaspora in London during the Indian Independence Movement.
- Where
- London, England.
- When
- Early 20th century.
- Why
- To contribute to the Indian independence movement.
British Rule
Indian Independence Movement
Political Ideals
British Rule
Colonial Control
Indian Independence Movement
Indian Independence
Key facts
- Event
- Indian Independence Movement
- Location
- London, England
- Key Figures
- Sarojini Naidu, V K Krishna Menon, Shyamji Krishnavarma
- Organizations
- India House, India League, London Muslim League
- Focus
- Contribution of Indian diaspora to the freedom struggle
Timeline
Preparations began for the Independence Day celebrations.
This triggered discussions about India's independence.
Then, the commemorations prompted further historical reflection.
Discussions about freedom continued to evolve.
Finally, London-based Indians rallied to support independence.
Quotes
Arup K. Chatterjee
Academic and author of 'Indians in London: From the Birth of the East India Company to Independent India'
“V K Krishna Menon can be said to be a mouthpiece of Indian interests in London at the time, but the India League and the Indian diaspora fell short of resonance, barring these influential individuals and organisations. I have no evidence of Indians being particularly involved in collaboration with Indians in London”
indianexpress.com
“An audit from 1855, conducted by Lieutenant Colonel R.M. Hughes of the East India Company, suggested that there were about 12,000 Indians, Chinese and Australian seamen in the employ of British merchant services.”
indianexpress.com
Sources
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