In modern Indian history, which leader was popularly known by the honorific title "Deenbandhu", meaning "Friend of the Poor"?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: C F Andrews

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Many Indian freedom movement leaders and social reformers were given affectionate or honorific titles by the people. Knowing these titles helps in understanding exam questions that use them instead of full names. The title Deenbandhu, meaning Friend of the Poor, is one such important epithet associated with a close associate of Mahatma Gandhi who was not Indian by birth but deeply involved in India's struggle and social issues.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • The question asks who was known as Deenbandhu.
  • Options include Vinoba Bhave, Chittaranjan Das, C N Annadurai, C F Andrews and Lala Lajpat Rai.
  • We assume familiarity with key leaders and their nicknames.


Concept / Approach:
The correct approach is to recall that Deenbandhu is associated with Charles Freer Andrews, a Christian missionary and close friend of Gandhi, who worked extensively for the poor and for Indian labourers in South Africa and elsewhere. Because of his dedication to the underprivileged, Indians affectionately called him Deenbandhu. The other names in the options have their own titles but not this one.


Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Remember that C F Andrews was a close companion of Gandhi and supported Indian causes despite being British.Step 2: Recall that he defended the rights of Indian indentured labourers and worked for social justice.Step 3: Because of his work for the needy and oppressed, Indians gave him the title Deenbandhu Friend of the Poor.Step 4: Compare with Vinoba Bhave, known for Bhoodan and Sarvodaya, but usually referred to as Acharya Vinoba or by his own name.Step 5: Note that Chittaranjan Das was called Deshbandhu, Friend of the Nation, which is different from Deenbandhu.Step 6: C N Annadurai and Lala Lajpat Rai have other recognitions and titles, not Deenbandhu.


Verification / Alternative check:


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Vinoba Bhave is honoured as a spiritual and social leader, but Deenbandhu is not his common title.Chittaranjan Das is Deshbandhu, which can easily be confused with Deenbandhu if you read too fast.C N Annadurai is a prominent Tamil leader and former Chief Minister, but not known by this particular epithet.Lala Lajpat Rai is called Punjab Kesari, the Lion of Punjab, not Deenbandhu.


Common Pitfalls:
The most frequent error is mixing up Deshbandhu and Deenbandhu, since both sound similar and both refer to leaders who fought for the oppressed. Careful reading and consistent revision of leader nicknames can prevent this confusion. It also helps to remember that Deshbandhu is linked with the word Desh nation while Deenbandhu focuses on the poor.


Final Answer:
The correct answer is C F Andrews.


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