Identifying the Indian National Congress Session for Gandhi's Famous Quote

The question asks about a specific statement made by Mahatma Gandhi during a session of the Indian National Congress: “Gandhi may die but Gandhism will remain forever”. To answer this, we need to recall the significant sessions of the Indian National Congress and the major events associated with them.

This particular statement is famously linked to the context of the Karachi Session of the Indian National Congress held in 1931. This session was particularly charged because it took place shortly after the execution of Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, and Rajguru on March 23, 1931. Mahatma Gandhi faced criticism from some sections of the youth who were angered by the executions and felt that Gandhi could have done more to save them.

In this atmosphere, while presenting the Delhi Pact (Gandhi-Irwin Pact), Gandhi made this powerful statement. The quote reflects his belief in the enduring power of his philosophy and principles (Gandhism) beyond his own physical existence. He emphasized that the ideals of truth, non-violence, and social justice would live on even if he were no longer there.

The Karachi Session of 1931 is also significant for adopting the resolution on Fundamental Rights and Economic Programme, which laid down the vision for independent India's political and economic future.

Analyzing the Options

Let's briefly look at the other options to confirm why they are not correct:

• Calcutta Session, 1928: Presided over by Motilal Nehru, this session saw debates on the Nehru Report and the demand for Dominion Status vs. complete independence. Gandhi played a role, but this quote is not associated with it.
• Lahore Session, 1929: Presided over by Jawaharlal Nehru, this was a landmark session where the resolution for 'Poorna Swaraj' (Complete Independence) was passed. The declaration of Purna Swaraj Day on January 26, 1930, followed this session. While extremely important, this quote is not linked to it.
• Madras Session, 1927: Presided over by Dr. M.A. Ansari, this session passed a resolution against the Simon Commission and advocated for complete independence. This quote does not originate from this session.
• Karachi Session, 1931: As discussed, this session, presided over by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, is where Mahatma Gandhi made the famous statement "Gandhi may die but Gandhism will remain forever," especially in the context of the Gandhi-Irwin Pact and the public sentiment following the executions.

Therefore, the statement “Gandhi may die but Gandhism will remain forever” was made by Mahatma Gandhi at the Karachi Session of the Indian National Congress in 1931.

Revision Table: Key Sessions and Events

Revisiting important Indian National Congress sessions helps in understanding the timeline of the Indian freedom struggle. The Karachi Session 1931 is pivotal for several reasons, including the adoption of significant resolutions and Mahatma Gandhi's powerful message about Gandhism.

Understanding the context behind historical statements, like the one by Mahatma Gandhi at the Karachi Session, provides deeper insight into the political and social climate of the time.

Additional Information: Significance of Gandhism

Gandhism is the body of ideas and principles that guided Mahatma Gandhi's life and activism. It includes the philosophies of Satyagraha (truth force or soul force), Ahimsa (non-violence), Sarvodaya (welfare of all), Swaraj (self-rule), and Swadeshi (self-sufficiency). Gandhi believed these principles were universal and could lead to individual and societal transformation. The statement made at the Karachi Session 1931 underscores his belief in the lasting relevance and power of these ideals, independent of his physical presence.

The Karachi Session's resolution on Fundamental Rights was a significant step, envisioning a future Indian state committed to civil liberties, equality, and social justice, reflecting the influence of these Gandhian principles.