Early Life and Identity
Legacy of G V Mavalankar: G V Mavalankar, born in 1888, emerged as one of the most influential parliamentary leaders in modern India. Popularly known as Dadasaheb, he shaped early democratic practices when India was transitioning into a parliamentary republic. Jawaharlal Nehru honoured him with the title ‘Father of the Lok Sabha’, a recognition rarely given to any single leader.
Static GK fact: The Lok Sabha is the lower house of India’s bicameral Parliament, established under Article 79 of the Constitution.
Political Journey
Mavalankar’s political career began with deep involvement in civil society institutions in Gujarat. He worked with the Gujarat Education Society and Gujarat Sabha, organisations that played important roles in regional political awakening. His entry into the Swaraj Party marked his rise in national politics, especially in legislative affairs.
Static GK fact: The Swaraj Party was formed by C R Das and Motilal Nehru in 1923 to enter legislative councils and challenge colonial administration from within.
Role in National Movements
Mavalankar participated actively in the Non-Cooperation Movement led by Mahatma Gandhi. His leadership during the ‘Khaira No-Rent’ campaign strengthened peasant mobilisation in Gujarat. These movements shaped his approach to constitutional democracy, especially his emphasis on nonpartisanship and public ethics.
Static GK fact: The Kheda (Khaira) Satyagraha of 1918 was one of the earliest organised peasant movements under Gandhi’s leadership.
Legislative Leadership
From 1937 to 1946, Mavalankar served as Speaker of the Bombay Legislative Assembly, refining the parliamentary procedures that later influenced national practices. In 1946, he was elected to preside over the Central Legislative Assembly, demonstrating exceptional command over legislative discipline.
His leadership continued when he became the Speaker of the Provisional Parliament in 1949, guiding the legislature through the complex transition until India held its first general elections.
Static GK fact: The first Lok Sabha was constituted in 1952 after India’s first general elections.
Contributions to Institutions
Mavalankar was the founder Chairman of the National Rifle Association of India, promoting structured sports governance in independent India. He also founded the Institute for Afro-Asian Relations, strengthening India’s relationships with newly independent nations.
Static GK fact: The National Rifle Association of India was established in 1951 to promote shooting sports at the national level.
Works and Ideals
He authored important books including Manavatana Jharna, Sansmarano, and A Great Experiment, which provide insights into India’s political evolution and his own philosophy. Known for values of nonpartisanship, leadership, integrity, and patriotism, he set standards that continue to guide the functioning of the Lok Sabha today.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Legacy of G V Mavalankar:
| Topic | Detail |
| Full Name | Ganesh Vasudev Mavalankar |
| Lifespan | 1888–1956 |
| Popular Title | Dadasaheb |
| Known As | Father of the Lok Sabha |
| Major Movements | Non-Cooperation Movement, Khaira No-Rent campaign |
| Legislative Roles | Speaker of Bombay Legislative Assembly (1937–1946) |
| National Roles | Presiding officer, Central Legislative Assembly (1946) |
| Role in 1949 | Speaker of Provisional Parliament |
| Institutional Contributions | Founded National Rifle Association, Institute for Afro-Asian Relations |
| Books | Manavatana Jharna, Sansmarano, A Great Experiment |
