Understanding the Poona Sarvajanik Sabha and its Founders

The question asks about one of the founding members of the Poona Sarvajanik Sabha. This organization played a significant role in the socio-political awakening in Maharashtra and India during the late 19th century.

The Poona Sarvajanik Sabha was established in 1870. Its main objective was to act as a bridge between the government and the people. It aimed to represent the grievances and aspirations of the people to the British government and also educate the public about their political rights.

Several prominent personalities were associated with the founding and early activities of the Poona Sarvajanik Sabha. Key figures included:

• Mahadev Govind Ranade (M.G. Ranade)
• Ganesh Vasudeo Joshi (Sarvajanik Kaka)
• S.H. Chiplunkar

Let's look at the options provided:

• Dadabhai Naoroji: Dadabhai Naoroji was a towering figure in the Indian nationalist movement and was associated with various organizations like the Indian National Congress and the East India Association. While he was a contemporary and colleague of many Sabha members, he was not one of the founding members of the Poona Sarvajanik Sabha.
• Jawaharlal Nehru: Jawaharlal Nehru belonged to a much later generation of freedom fighters. He was a key leader of the Indian National Congress in the 20th century and India's first Prime Minister. He was not associated with the founding of the Poona Sarvajanik Sabha in 1870.
• M.G. Ranade: Mahadev Govind Ranade was indeed one of the principal founders and guiding spirits of the Poona Sarvajanik Sabha. He played a crucial role in shaping its objectives and activities.
• Dinshaw Petit: Sir Dinshaw Maneckji Petit was a prominent Parsi businessman and philanthropist from Bombay. He was associated with various business ventures and civic activities but is not listed among the founding members of the Poona Sarvajanik Sabha.

Based on the historical records, M.G. Ranade was a key founding member of the Poona Sarvajanik Sabha.

Analysis of Options

Therefore, among the given options, M.G. Ranade is the correct answer as he was one of the founding members of the Poona Sarvajanik Sabha.

Revision Table: Important Indian Political Organizations

Additional Information on Poona Sarvajanik Sabha

The Poona Sarvajanik Sabha was instrumental in preparing the ground for the rise of nationalism in Maharashtra. It addressed various issues including peasant distress, famine, and administrative problems. It also published a quarterly journal to voice its views and reach a wider audience. The Sabha's activities provided valuable political experience to future leaders and served as a platform for public opinion.

M.G. Ranade, apart from founding the Sabha, was a prominent social reformer, economist, and a judge. His intellectual contributions greatly influenced the early nationalist movement.