---
title: "Dadabhai Naoroji: Grand Old Man of India | Model Diplomat"
description: "Dadabhai Naoroji was the first Indian elected to the British House of Commons and authored the 'drain of wealth' theory, shaping Indian nationalism."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/dadabhai-naoroji"
---

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Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- Dadabhai Naoroji (1825–1917) was an Indian intellectual, early nationalist, and the first Indian elected to the British House of Commons, who authored the economic "drain of wealth" theory.
- What is Dadabhai Naoroji's 'Drain of Wealth' theory?
- Why is Naoroji historically significant in British political history?
- How many times did Naoroji preside over the Indian National Congress?
- Where does Naoroji fit in the phases of the freedom struggle?

[Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services/glossary)Updated June 22, 2026

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In 1892 Dadabhai Naoroji won the Central Finsbury seat to become the first Indian elected to the British House of Commons, advocating Indian interests from within Parliament.

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