Childhood
He liked stories very much. Soon after his studies, he would run to his grandfather to hear stories from him. His grandfather had lived in Kashi during the days of the 1857 Revolution (the first war of Independence). On hearing the stories about the revolutionaries like Nana Saheb, Tatia Tope and Jhansi Rani, Bal would be thrilled.
Oh! What great men were they who sacrificed their lives for the country! When he grew up he, too, should serve his country like them and free Mother India from slavery this became his heart's desire.
Bal was ten years old when Gangadharpant was transferred to Pune. Coming from Ratnagiri to Pune was a milestone in the life of Bal Tilak.
A new place and new people.
By joining the Anglo-Vernacular School in Pune, young Tilak was able to get good education from well known teachers.
Bal's mother passed away only a few months after coming to Pune. Fasts and strict religious observances had made her weak and thin. She wished for a son, and undertook a strenuous from of the worship of the Sun God for eighteen months. The boy who was born by the grace of the Sun God, was instrumental in making the sunset in the British Empire!
Bal lost his father also six years after his mothers death. Then he was 16 years old.
He was studying in the Matriculation Class. He had been married to a ten-year old girl called Sathyabhama.
At College
Naturally one's responsibility increases after marriage. Now Bal Tilak became 'Bal Gangadhar Tilak'. After passing the Matriculation Examination he joined the Deccan College.
His health was delicate as his mothers. How could he sacrifice his life for the country if his body was weak? So, Tilak decided to improve his physique even at the cost of his studies during the first year at college.
He used to do physical exercises every day. And his food was regulated but nutritious.
In the course of one year, Tilak was first in all games and sports. He became an expert swimmer and wrestler. He developed his body so well that all wondered at such radiant health.
In 1877, Tilak got his B.A. degree. It was no wonder that he got first class marks in mathematics. He continued his studies and got the LL.B. degree also.
Dedicated To The Country
Tilak, being a double graduate, could easily have got a well-paid job like others, under the British. But, as he had decided when he was young, he dedicated himself to the service of his country.
The concept of Swaraj had yet to blossom in the minds of the people. They had to be made to feel that thirst for independence. Patriotism had to be nurtured. To lay a strong foundation for a new way of life, an educational institution reflecting Indian culture had to be established. Every Indian had to be taught about Indian culture and national ideals. Good citizens can be molded only through good education. Such were the views of Bal Gangadhar Tilak.
His classmate Agarkar gave him full support. As Tilak and Agarkar were working out the plans for a system of education which would make students truly useful to the country, another great person, Vishnushastry Chiplunkar, joined them.
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