Which Indian freedom fighter was affectionately known as the Grand Old Man of India?

Introduction / Context:
The Indian national movement featured many leaders who were honoured with affectionate titles. These titles often reflect their age, contribution or special qualities. The phrase Grand Old Man of India is especially important in modern Indian history and frequently appears in exam questions.

Given Data / Assumptions:
- The title provided is Grand Old Man of India.- The options list several senior leaders from the freedom struggle.- Historical accounts consistently link this title with one particular leader.

Concept / Approach:
Dadabhai Naoroji, one of the earliest leaders of the Indian National Congress, is known as the Grand Old Man of India due to his advanced age, long public service and pioneering role in exposing economic exploitation through the drain of wealth theory. Recalling this association is key to solving the question.

Step-by-Step Solution:
- Step 1: Remember that Dadabhai Naoroji was among the founders of the Indian National Congress and served as its president more than once.- Step 2: He was an early critic of British economic policies and authored works on the drain of wealth from India.- Step 3: Because of his seniority and long struggle for Indian self rule, people affectionately called him the Grand Old Man of India.- Step 4: Compare this with the other options whose well known titles are different.- Step 5: Hence, Dadabhai Naoroji is the correct answer.

Verification / Alternative check:
A cross check is to recall that Bal Gangadhar Tilak is often called Lokmanya, Mahatma Gandhi is called Father of the Nation, and Gopal Krishna Gokhale is described as a moderate leader and political guru of Gandhi. Surendranath Banerjee has titles associated with Bengal politics. Only Dadabhai Naoroji matches the phrase Grand Old Man of India as recorded in history books.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Bal Gangadhar Tilak is remembered as Lokmanya Tilak, signifying that he was accepted as a leader by the people, but not as the Grand Old Man.Gopal Krishna Gokhale is known for founding the Servants of India Society and mentoring younger leaders, yet the title in question does not refer to him.Mahatma Gandhi has the unique title of Mahatma and is described as Father of the Nation; the wording Grand Old Man is not associated with him.Surendranath Banerjee was a prominent early nationalist leader, sometimes referred to as a great orator, but again, the specific nickname is not his.

Common Pitfalls:
Students may confuse the phrase Grand Old Man of India with Grand Old Man of Congress or with other similar sounding honours. Another common mistake is to pick Bal Gangadhar Tilak because of his early leadership role without recalling the exact wording of his title. Consistent revision of lists of leaders and their popular titles is the best way to avoid these errors.

Final Answer:
The freedom fighter affectionately known as the Grand Old Man of India is Dadabhai Naoroji.