Approach Introduce the answer by giving a brief overview of the Russian Revolution. Give impact of the Russian Revolution of 1917 on India's nationalist movement with greater emphasis on political thought. Conclude suitably.

Introduction

The Russian Revolution of 1917, a pivotal event in global history, had a profound influence on India's nationalist movement.

• The overthrow of the Tsarist regime and the establishment of a socialist state in Russia provided Indian nationalists with new ideas, inspiration, and strategies to challenge British colonial rule.

Body

Impact of the Russian Revolution of 1917 on India's Nationalist Movement:

• Inspiration for Anti-Imperialist Struggle: The Russian Revolution demonstrated that it was possible to overthrow an oppressive regime, inspiring Indian nationalists in their fight against British colonial rule.
  • As Jawaharlal Nehru noted: “The Soviet Revolution had advanced human society by a great leap and had lit a bright flame which could not be smothered and that it laid the foundation for a new civilization toward which the world could advance”
• Introduction of Socialist and Communist Ideas: The revolution introduced socialist and communist ideologies to Indian political discourse, influencing the direction of the independence movement.
  • Formation of the Communist Party of India in 1920. M.N. Roy, an Indian revolutionary, played a significant role in it.
• Workers' and Peasants' Rights: The revolution highlighted the importance of workers' and peasants' rights, leading to increased focus on these groups in India's freedom struggle.
  • Formation of the All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC) in 1920.
  • Increased emphasis on peasant movements, such as the Champaran Satyagraha led by Gandhi in 1917.
• Challenge to Capitalist and Feudal Systems: The revolution questioned the existing economic and social structures, encouraging Indian leaders to envision alternative systems for an independent India.
  • The concept of "complete independence" (Purna Swaraj) adopted by the Indian National Congress in 1929, moving beyond the earlier demand for dominion status.
• Influence on Revolutionary Movements: The success of the Bolsheviks inspired more radical, revolutionary approaches within the Indian independence movement.
• International Solidarity: The revolution promoted the idea of international solidarity among oppressed peoples, influencing Indian nationalists to seek support beyond national boundaries.
  • Indian nationalists' participation in the League Against Imperialism, founded in Brussels in 1927.
• Reimagining Social Structures: The revolution's focus on equality inspired Indian thinkers to challenge traditional social hierarchies, including the caste system.
  • B.R. Ambedkar's advocacy for Dalit rights and social reform.

Conclusion

The Russian Revolution of 1917 had a profound and multifaceted impact on India's nationalist movement and political thought. It introduced new ideologies, challenged existing systems, inspired revolutionary zeal, and influenced economic and social thinking.