Basically, nationalism in India rose to meet the challenges of foreign cultural, economic, social and political domination. The very existence of a foreign rule helped in the growth of a national sentiment among the people. There was also a clash between the British interests in India and those of the Indian people. The British had conquered India to promote their own economic interests and the ruled over her primarily with that objective in view. With the best of time, this was realised in India and the realisation brought unity in India against foreign rule. It was timely responsible for the growth of national movement to drive out the foreigners from the country. All classes of people in India joined at one stage or other the nationalist moment.

British domination of India generated certain forces as a result of its direct and indirect consequences which ultimately challenged the British Empire. One important affect of the introduction of Western culture in India was the growth of modern political concepts like nationalism, nationality, political rights etc. And it were political associations which helped in 19th-century for the nationalism.

Factor Responsible for growth of Nationalism in India:

1. Political, Administrative and Economic Unification of India : The British established the uniform, modern and highly centralised administrative, political and economic system in India. The generated a feeling of oneness among the people
2. Socio-religious Reforms : The socio-religious movements in the 19th century, which brought out the cultural ideological struggle, played an important role in the evolution of an nationalism. These movements were progressive in character as the sort reorganisation of society on democratic lines.
3. Racism of the British Administration : The racial discrimination practised by the British Administration made Indians conscious of national humiliation and resulted in feeling of oneness while facing British.
4. Economic Exploitation : The destruction of ruler and local self-sufficient economy and introduction of modern grade and industries on all India level made India's economic life a single whole.
5. English Language and Western Education : English language gave a new and effective way of competition with educated Indians. It also made the Indian literature available to masses. This brought out the patriotic emotions among the Indian masses. The educated Indians feels the ideals of nationality, liberty and self-governance through reading the Liberal and radical thoughts of Rousseau, Voltaire, Mill, Bentham, Shelly and Milton.
6. Role of Press : The English and press played a important role in mobilising public opinion, organising political movements and promoting nationalism. The Indian press advocated the cause of the local people which helped in the ruling social and political reforms and emotions among Indians.
7. Contemporary Nationalist Movements :The American Revolution of 1776, national liberation movements of Greece, Italy and Ireland in Europe, French Revolution of 1789, independence of Spanish and Portuguese colony in south America considerably inspired Indians.
8. Development of new means of Transport and Communication: Development of new means of transport and communication made easier the integration of people living in different parts of the country.