Mahatma Gandhi Biography: 

Mahatma Gandhi, often referred to as the Father of the Nation in India, is a towering figure in the history of the 20th century. His unwavering commitment to nonviolence and truth has left an indelible mark on the world. This article delves into the life of Gandhi, exploring his family, education, friendships, and the circumstances surrounding his death.

Mahatma Gandhi Early Life

Birth and Family Background

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi was born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, a coastal town in present-day Gujarat, India. He was born into a Hindu Modh Bania family, a merchant caste, which played a significant role in shaping his early life and values.

Mahatma Gandhi Childhood and Early Influences

Gandhi’s childhood was steeped in religious and cultural diversity, which influenced his worldview. His mother, Putlibai, was a devout and religious woman whose piety and simplicity deeply affected young Gandhi. The tales of honesty and moral integrity from the Indian epics narrated by his mother left a lasting impression on him.

Mahatma Gandhi Family Background

Mahatma Gandhi Parents and Siblings

Gandhi’s father, Karamchand Gandhi, served as the Diwan (chief minister) of Porbandar, and later Rajkot. He was known for his administrative skills and principled nature. Gandhi had three siblings: two brothers, Laxmidas and Karsandas, and a sister, Raliatbehn.

Mahatma Gandhi Marital Life and Children

At the age of 13, Gandhi was married to Kasturba Makhanji in an arranged marriage. The couple had four sons: Harilal, Manilal, Ramdas, and Devdas. Kasturba was a pillar of support for Gandhi, sharing his struggles and supporting his campaigns throughout their life together.

Mahatma Gandhi Education

Early Education in India

Gandhi’s early education took place in Porbandar and Rajkot. He was an average student, known more for his integrity and discipline than his academic prowess.

Mahatma Gandhi Higher Education in London

In 1888, Gandhi traveled to London to study law at University College London. He joined the Inner Temple, one of the four Inns of Court, and was called to the bar in 1891. His time in London was transformative, exposing him to new ideas and broadening his intellectual horizons.

Struggles and Achievements

Gandhi faced cultural and dietary challenges in London but remained steadfast in his goal. He adopted a vegetarian diet, joined the Vegetarian Society, and immersed himself in the study of world religions, which profoundly influenced his future philosophy.

Legal Career

Early Attempts in India

Upon returning to India, Gandhi struggled to establish a legal practice in Bombay (Mumbai). He found it difficult to speak in court and was often nervous, leading him to accept a position with an Indian firm in South Africa.

Mahatma Gandhi Move to South Africa

In 1893, Gandhi moved to South Africa to work as a legal representative for a Gujarati firm. His experiences with racial discrimination there were pivotal, propelling him into activism.

Experiences and Lessons in South Africa

South Africa was where Gandhi first experienced blatant racial discrimination, which catalyzed his resolve to fight injustice. He organized the Indian community and developed the philosophy of Satyagraha, or nonviolent resistance.

Development of Satyagraha

Concept and Philosophy

Satyagraha, meaning “truth-force” or “soul-force,” was Gandhi’s method of nonviolent resistance. It was based on the principles of courage, nonviolence, and truth. Gandhi believed that just means lead to just ends and that nonviolence was the most potent weapon available to oppressed people in their struggle for justice.

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Initial Applications in South Africa

Gandhi applied Satyagraha for the first time in South Africa, leading campaigns against unjust laws and discriminatory practices. His success in uniting the Indian community and negotiating with authorities marked the beginning of his journey as a leader of social change.

Mahatma Gandhi Return to India

Joining the Indian National Congress

In 1915, Gandhi returned to India and joined the Indian National Congress. He quickly became a prominent leader, advocating for self-rule and introducing the principles of Satyagraha to the Indian independence movement.

Initial Campaigns and Strategies

Gandhi led several local campaigns, addressing issues like indigo plantation workers’ rights in Champaran and the plight of textile workers in Ahmedabad. His ability to mobilize masses and use nonviolent methods garnered widespread support.

Non-Cooperation Movement

Causes and Objectives

Launched in 1920, the Non-Cooperation Movement aimed to resist British rule through nonviolent means. Gandhi called for Indians to boycott British goods, institutions, and honors, and to resign from government employment.

Key Events and Outcomes

The movement saw widespread participation, with millions of Indians boycotting British goods and services. Although it was called off in 1922 following the violent Chauri Chaura incident, it marked a significant step towards mass mobilization for India’s independence.

Salt March

Significance of the Salt March

In 1930, Gandhi led the famous Salt March, a 240-mile trek to the Arabian Sea to produce salt in defiance of British laws. The march was a direct challenge to British authority and a symbol of Indian resistance.

Impact on the Independence Movement

The Salt March galvanized the Indian population and drew international attention to the independence struggle. It demonstrated the power of nonviolent protest and increased pressure on the British government.

Quit India Movement

Reasons for Launching

In 1942, Gandhi launched the Quit India Movement, demanding an immediate end to British rule. This was in response to Britain’s failure to offer India significant political autonomy during World War II.

Nationwide Impact and British Response

The movement led to widespread protests and civil disobedience. The British responded with severe repression, arresting Gandhi and other leaders. Despite the crackdown, the movement intensified the demand for independence.

Friends and Associates

Key Friendships and Collaborations

Gandhi’s close associates included Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Rajendra Prasad, and Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan. These leaders shared his vision and worked alongside him in the struggle for freedom.

Influences and Mutual Support

Gandhi’s interactions with figures like Rabindranath Tagore and Leo Tolstoy influenced his thinking. He also inspired others, including Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela, who adopted his principles of nonviolence in their own struggles for justice.

Philosophy and Writings

Core Beliefs and Principles

Gandhi’s philosophy centered on nonviolence, truth, and self-discipline. He believed in the power of love and compassion to overcome hatred and violence.

Major Writings and Speeches

Gandhi’s writings, such as “Hind Swaraj” and “The Story of My Experiments with Truth,” articulate his vision and experiences. His speeches and letters continue to inspire movements for social justice worldwide