The Madras Mahajana Sabha, founded in 1884, was among India’s earliest political organisations and played a major role in promoting political reforms, nationalism, and the freedom movement.

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• Madras Mahajana Sabha was established in 1884 in Madras and became one of the earliest organised political associations in colonial India.
• The Sabha was founded by M. Veeraraghavachariar, G. Subramania Iyer, and P. Ananda Charlu after discussions linked to the Adyar Theosophical Society.
• Under the leadership of P. Rangaiah Naidu, the organisation advocated self-governance, political awareness, and constitutional reforms in British India.
• The Sabha demanded expansion of legislative councils, separation of executive and judiciary, reduction in taxes, and greater Indian participation in civil services administration.
• It also promoted social reforms, equality, justice, and protection of public rights while opposing discriminatory colonial policies imposed by the British government.
• The organisation actively supported national movements like the Salt Satyagraha and Quit India Movement, with many members facing imprisonment during British crackdowns.
• Mahatma Gandhi addressed the Sabha in 1896 regarding the problems faced by Indians in South Africa, strengthening its association with the national movement.
• The Madras Mahajana Sabha contributed significantly to the formation of the Indian National Congress and later focused on cultural and social welfare activities after independence.