Gandhi Ji always . . . . . . . . truth.

Correct Answer: Option D – spoke

Complete Sentence:
Gandhi Ji always spoke the truth.

1. Why is "spoke" correct?
The sentence refers to Mahatma Gandhi, a famous historical personality who is no longer alive. We are talking about his past life, habits and principles. Therefore, the Simple Past Tense is appropriate here.

The verb "speak" is in its first form (V1), whereas "spoke" is its second form (V2). Since the sentence describes Gandhi Ji's habit of speaking the truth during his lifetime, we use the past form "spoke".

2. Why are the other options incorrect?

Option A: speak ❌
"Speak" is the base form of the verb. It is used with plural subjects, I, you, we and they in the simple present tense. It cannot be used directly with the singular subject "Gandhi Ji" in this sentence.

Option B: speaks ❌
"Speaks" is grammatically correct with a singular third-person subject in the simple present tense. However, the sentence refers to Gandhi Ji's past life and habits, so the simple past tense is more appropriate in this context.

Option C: speaking ❌
"Speaking" is the -ing form of the verb. It generally requires an appropriate helping verb, such as is, am, are, was or were, or another grammatical structure. It cannot independently complete this sentence.

Option D: spoke ✅
"Spoke" is the second form (V2) of "speak". It correctly expresses Gandhi Ji's past habit of speaking the truth.

3. Important Grammar Rule:
When describing the habits, actions or characteristics of a person who is no longer alive, we generally use the Simple Past Tense when referring to their lifetime.

Examples:
1. Mahatma Gandhi always spoke the truth.
2. Abraham Lincoln was an honest leader.
3. Swami Vivekananda inspired millions of people.

Remember for Exams:
Speak – V1
Spoke – V2
Spoken – V3

Final Answer: Option D – spoke.