Understanding the 'Do or Die' Slogan during the Quit India Movement

The Quit India Movement was a significant mass movement launched in August 1942, during World War II, demanding an end to British rule in India. It was a pivotal moment in India's struggle for independence.

One of the most powerful and memorable slogans associated with this movement is 'Do or Die'. This slogan was a call to action, urging Indians to make every possible effort to achieve independence or perish in the attempt. It galvanized the nation and symbolized the intensity of the demand for freedom.

Who Gave the 'Do or Die' Slogan?

Let's look at the individuals mentioned in the options:

• Abul Kalam Azad: Maulana Abul Kalam Azad was a senior leader of the Indian National Congress and served as its president during the Quit India Movement. While a key figure in the movement, the 'Do or Die' slogan is not attributed to him.
• Jawaharlal Nehru: Jawaharlal Nehru was another prominent leader and later became India's first Prime Minister. He was involved in the Quit India Movement but is not credited with coining the 'Do or Die' slogan.
• Subhash Chandra Bose: Subhash Chandra Bose had differences with Mahatma Gandhi and the Congress leadership around this time and was not directly associated with the Quit India Movement from within India. He is famous for slogans like "Give me blood, and I shall give you freedom!"
• Mahatma Gandhi: Mahatma Gandhi, the leader of the Indian national movement, gave the famous 'Do or Die' (Karenge ya Marenge) call to the people during his speech at the Gowalia Tank Maidan in Bombay (now Mumbai) on August 8, 1942, just before the movement officially began.

Therefore, the 'Do or Die' slogan during the Quit India Movement was famously given by Mahatma Gandhi.

Revision Table: Key Figures and Slogans

Additional Information on the Quit India Movement

• Date of Launch: The Quit India Movement was officially launched on August 8, 1942, after the All India Congress Committee meeting in Bombay.
• Reason for Launch: The failure of the Cripps Mission (which offered limited dominion status after the war) and the rising threat of Japanese invasion prompted Congress leaders, particularly Gandhi, to demand complete independence immediately.
• Impact: The movement saw widespread protests, hartals, and demonstrations across the country. Many prominent leaders were arrested shortly after the launch, which led to the movement becoming leaderless in many areas, resulting in spontaneous acts of rebellion by the masses.
• Outcome: While suppressed by the British government with force, the movement significantly weakened the British authority and clearly demonstrated the Indian people's strong will for independence. It paved the way for future negotiations leading to India's independence in 1947.