By Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay
Anandamath is a historical and nationalist novel written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay in 1882. It played a crucial role in inspiring the Indian freedom movement and introduced “Vande Mataram,” which later became India’s National Song.
1. Background & Historical Context
- Written during British colonial rule, when nationalist sentiments were rising.
- Based on the Sannyasi Rebellion (1770s) against British oppression and famine in Bengal.
- The novel symbolized Hindu resistance and encouraged anti-colonial sentiments.
2. Plot Summary
The story is set in Bengal during the 1770s, when the region suffered from severe famine and British exploitation.
(a) The Sannyasi Rebels
- A group of Hindu ascetics (Sannyasis) form a military resistance against British rule.
- They live in a secret monastery (Anandamath) and fight for India’s freedom and revival.
(b) Main Characters
- Mahendra & Kalyani – A Bengali couple separated during the famine and war.
- Jivananda – A fierce Sannyasi warrior.
- Bhavananda – A Sannyasi leader devoted to the motherland.
- Satyananda – The spiritual guru of the Anandamath, who leads the revolution.
- The British – Represent foreign oppression and tyranny.
(c) The Struggle & Victory
- The Sannyasis declare Bharat (India) as their divine mother and vow to fight for her freedom.
- The novel ends with a vision of a free India and the hope of a future revolution.
3. Symbolism in Anandamath
(a) Bharat Mata (Mother India)
- The novel introduced the concept of “Bharat Mata” (Mother India) as a divine figure.
- The song “Vande Mataram” praises Mother India as a goddess.
(b) Hindu Revivalism
- The novel portrays Hindu ascetics (Sannyasis) as warriors, reviving Indian culture and traditions.
(c) Anti-Colonialism
- The British are shown as oppressors, and the Sannyasis as freedom fighters.
- This inspired Indian nationalists to resist British rule.
4. “Vande Mataram” in Anandamath
- The novel introduced “Vande Mataram” as a patriotic hymn.
- It was later adopted as India’s National Song in 1950.
5. Impact on Indian Freedom Movement
- Inspired revolutionaries like Bipin Chandra Pal, Aurobindo Ghosh, and Subhas Chandra Bose.
- Banned by the British for its anti-colonial message.
- Became a must-read book among Indian freedom fighters.
6. Film Adaptations
- Anandamath (1952) – A Bollywood film based on the novel.
- “Vande Mataram” was featured in these films, strengthening its patriotic appeal.
MCQs on Anandamath
1. Who wrote “Anandamath”?
a) Rabindranath Tagore
b) Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay
c) Subhas Chandra Bose
d) Aurobindo Ghosh
Answer: (b) Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay
2. In which year was “Anandamath” published?
a) 1857
b) 1882
c) 1920
d) 1950
Answer: (b) 1882
3. What historical event inspired “Anandamath”?
a) Revolt of 1857
b) Sannyasi Rebellion
c) Swadeshi Movement
d) Salt Satyagraha
Answer: (b) Sannyasi Rebellion
4. What is the main theme of “Anandamath”?
a) Love and romance
b) Hindu nationalism and freedom struggle
c) Mughal history
d) Social reform
Answer: (b) Hindu nationalism and freedom struggle
5. Which patriotic song was first introduced in “Anandamath”?
a) Jana Gana Mana
b) Saare Jahan Se Achha
c) Vande Mataram
d) Ae Mere Watan Ke Logon
Answer: (c) Vande Mataram
6. Who is the leader of the Sannyasi rebels in “Anandamath”?
a) Bhavananda
b) Jivananda
c) Satyananda
d) Mahendra
Answer: (c) Satyananda
7. Why was “Anandamath” banned by the British?
a) It criticized Hindu traditions
b) It promoted nationalism and anti-British sentiments
c) It glorified the British rule
d) It was written in Sanskrit
Answer: (b) It promoted nationalism and anti-British sentiments
8. What does “Anandamath” literally mean?
a) The Temple of Joy
b) The Battle for India
c) The Path to Enlightenment
d) The Story of Bengal
Answer: (a) The Temple of Joy
9. Who sang “Vande Mataram” publicly for the first time?
a) Bal Gangadhar Tilak
b) Rabindranath Tagore
c) Mahatma Gandhi
d) Jawaharlal Nehru
Answer: (b) Rabindranath Tagore
10. Which movement widely used “Vande Mataram” as a slogan?
a) Revolt of 1857
b) Quit India Movement
c) Swadeshi Movement (1905)
d) Green Revolution
Answer: (c) Swadeshi Movement (1905)
Conclusion
“Anandamath” was more than just a novel – it was a revolution in itself!
- Introduced nationalism in Indian literature.
- Inspired generations of freedom fighters.
- Gave India its National Song, “Vande Mataram.”
Would you like a PDF version or more MCQs? 😊
One reply on “Anandamath (1882)”
[…] in his novel “Anandamath” […]