Understanding the Question: Return to India in January 1915

The question asks about a significant historical event: the return of a prominent figure to India in January 1915. This date is highly important in the context of the Indian freedom struggle, marking the arrival of a leader who would profoundly influence the movement.

Identifying the Key Figure

Let's analyze the options provided:

• Subhash Chandra Bose: A key leader, but his prominent return and activities were later.
• Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi: Spent many years in South Africa before returning to India.
• Chittaranjan Das: An important freedom fighter and politician, active in India around this time.
• Motilal Nehru: A prominent leader and father of Jawaharlal Nehru, active in Indian politics.

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi's Return

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, often known as Mahatma Gandhi, lived and worked in South Africa for over two decades. During this period (1893-1914), he developed his philosophy of Satyagraha (truth force) and non-violent resistance, using it successfully against the discriminatory laws faced by Indians in South Africa.

His work in South Africa brought him international recognition and prepared him for the larger role he would play in India. The date of his return to India is widely recognized in Indian history.

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi returned to India from South Africa on January 9, 1915. This day is now commemorated in India as Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (Non-Resident Indian Day).

Upon his return, he initially spent a year travelling across India to understand the country's situation before becoming actively involved in political movements.

Why Other Options are Incorrect

While Subhash Chandra Bose, Chittaranjan Das, and Motilal Nehru were all crucial figures in the Indian freedom struggle, their major activities or returns to India in the context of a long absence do not align with the January 1915 timeframe mentioned in the question.

Therefore, based on the historical facts, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi is the leader who returned to India in January 1915.

Conclusion

The historical records clearly indicate that Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi returned to India in January 1915. This event marked the beginning of a new phase in the Indian freedom struggle, with Gandhi soon taking a leading role.

Revision Table: Key Figures and Dates

Additional Information: Significance of Gandhi's Return

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi's return to India in January 1915 was a watershed moment. Having honed his leadership skills and philosophy of non-violent resistance in South Africa, he was ready to apply these methods on a larger scale in India. His arrival injected a new vigour and direction into the independence movement, eventually transforming the Indian National Congress into a mass movement. The principles of Satyagraha and Ahimsa (non-violence) that he championed became the cornerstones of India's struggle against British rule.