Consider the following statements regarding the Swadeshi Movement launched in 1905: 1. It was formally proclaimed following the passage of the Partition of Bengal by Lord Curzon. 2. The traditional festival of Ganpati was utilized by leaders like Lokmanya Tilak to mobilize public participation and spread nationalist messages. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

💡 Solution & Explanation

Both statements are correct as the Swadeshi Movement emerged directly in response to the partition of Bengal announced by Lord Curzon, utilizing indigenous manufacturing and boycotts of foreign goods. Radical nationalists like Bal Gangadhar Tilak harnessed traditional festivals such as Ganpati and Shivaji celebrations to foster political consciousness and grassroots unity. The movement marked a major watershed in India's freedom struggle by shifting from moderate petitions to active mass agitation.