Mahatama Gandhi Biography, Birth, Early Life, Education, Death

Mahatama Gandhi Biography

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, born on October 2, 1869, and passed away on January 30, 1948, was a lawyer from India. He strongly opposed colonial rule and believed in nonviolent methods to help India become independent from British rule. His ideas influenced movements for civil rights and freedom worldwide. The title “Mahātmā,” meaning ‘great-souled’ or ‘venerable,’ was first given to him in South Africa in 1914 and is now used globally.

Gandhi grew up in a Hindu family in Gujarat, India. He studied law in London and became a lawyer at the age of 22 in 1891. After struggling to start a successful law practice in India, he moved to South Africa in 1893 to represent an Indian merchant in a lawsuit. He lived in South Africa for 21 years, where he started using nonviolent resistance to fight for civil rights.

In 1915, at the age of 45, Gandhi returned to India. He began organizing protests against unfair land taxes and discrimination, focusing on uniting peasants, farmers, and urban laborers. His journey of advocating for nonviolent resistance and fighting for the rights of the people left a lasting impact not only in India but also around the world.

Mahatama Gandhi Birth

Mahatma Gandhi, whose full name is Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, was born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, a coastal town in the state of Gujarat, India. His birthday is celebrated annually in India as Gandhi Jayanti, a national holiday, to honor his contributions to India’s independence through nonviolent means.

Mahatma Gandhi: Early Life and Family Background

He was born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, a coastal town in the present-day state of Gujarat, India had an early life that greatly shaped his values and future endeavors. He was born into a family of the Vaisya caste, which traditionally consisted of merchants and traders. His father, Karamchand Gandhi, held the position of Dewan (Chief Minister) in Porbandar, a princely state under British colonial rule.

Gandhi’s mother, Putlibai, was a devout and deeply religious woman who instilled in him a strong sense of spirituality and morality. She had a significant influence on his upbringing and laid the foundation for his later commitment to truth and nonviolence.

At the age of 13, Gandhi entered into an arranged marriage with Kasturba Makhanji, also known as Kasturba Gandhi. This was a common practice in Indian society during that time. Kasturba would become not only his wife but also a steadfast partner in his social and political journey.

Gandhi’s early exposure to the Hindu scriptures, stories of moral virtue, and his family’s emphasis on truth and ethical living left a profound impact on him. These values were instrumental in shaping his philosophy of nonviolent resistance, which he later termed as Satyagraha.

Mahatma Gandhi: Education

Mahatma Gandhi’s early education began at a school in Rajkot, where he studied subjects like history, geography, arithmetic, and languages. Later, he transitioned to a higher-level school within Rajkot. However, his educational journey faced disruptions due to his marriage, but he persevered and eventually resumed his studies. Subsequently, in 1888, he enrolled at Samaldas College in Bhavnagar.

Although he embarked on a college education, Gandhi found himself dissatisfied with the academic path he was on. Driven by his convictions, he managed to convince his parents to support his aspirations and secured their permission to travel to London to study Law. Before departing for London, he made a solemn promise to his family that he would uphold certain ethical principles: he would abstain from consuming non-vegetarian food, interacting with women in inappropriate ways, and indulging in alcohol.

Upon arriving in London, Gandhi enrolled at Inner Temple Law College to pursue his legal studies. In addition to his academic pursuits, he joined a vegetarian society, connecting with like-minded individuals who shared his dietary preferences and ethical values. During this time, Gandhi’s association with this society introduced him to the Bhagavad Gita, a revered Hindu scripture. The teachings of the Bhagavad Gita had a profound impact on him, shaping his outlook on life, spirituality, and nonviolent principles.

The Bhagavad Gita’s influence became a guiding force in Gandhi’s life, contributing to the development of his philosophy of nonviolence (ahimsa) and his commitment to truth and morality. His time in London marked a significant period of personal growth and philosophical exploration, laying the groundwork for his future role as a leader of India’s struggle for independence and his advocacy for civil rights and social justice.

Mahatma Gandhi’s Important Books

Mahatma Gandhi wrote several books and writings that reflect his philosophies, beliefs, and ideas. Some of his important books include:

1. Autobiography: The Story of My Experiments with Truth: This autobiography is one of Gandhi’s most famous works. In it, he chronicles his life, experiences, and the development of his principles, including his experiments with truth and nonviolence. The book provides insights into his personal struggles, beliefs, and his role in India’s freedom struggle.
2. Hind Swaraj or Indian Home Rule: Published in 1909, this book addresses the concepts of self-rule and nonviolent resistance. It critiques Western civilization and its impact on India, advocating for a return to traditional Indian values and self-reliance.
3. Key to Health: This book focuses on Gandhi’s principles of health and hygiene, promoting natural remedies and simple living. He believed that physical well-being was essential for an individual’s overall growth and spiritual development.
4. Satyagraha in South Africa: This compilation of Gandhi’s writings documents his experiences and reflections during his time in South Africa. It highlights his experiments with satyagraha (nonviolent resistance) and civil disobedience against racial discrimination.
5. Constructive Programme: Its Meaning and Place: In this work, Gandhi discusses the concept of constructive program, which involves focusing on positive actions for social change, including education, sanitation, economic self-sufficiency, and communal harmony.
6. My Experiments with Truth (Satyana Prayogo): This is a Gujarati translation of Gandhi’s autobiography, giving readers in his native language the opportunity to understand his life’s journey, values, and beliefs.
7. The Bhagavad Gita According to Gandhi: This commentary by Gandhi provides his interpretations of the Bhagavad Gita, offering insights into his spiritual and philosophical perspective. It reveals how he applied the teachings of the Gita to his own life and struggle.
8. Young India: Gandhi edited this weekly newspaper, and his writings in it covered a wide range of topics, including social, political, and economic issues. The newspaper played a significant role in spreading his ideas and promoting civil disobedience and nonviolent resistance.

These books and writings showcase the depth of Gandhi’s philosophy, his commitment to nonviolence, his critique of social issues, and his vision for a just and equitable society. They remain relevant and continue to inspire people around the world who are interested in social change, activism, and ethical living.

Mahatma Gandhi: Awards

Mahatma Gandhi, known for his philosophy of nonviolence and his leadership in India’s struggle for independence, did not receive traditional awards or honors in the conventional sense. However, his contributions and legacy have been recognized and celebrated in various ways. Here are some significant recognitions of Gandhi’s impact:

1. Time Magazine’s Person of the Year (1930): In 1930, Mahatma Gandhi was named Time magazine’s Person of the Year for his role in leading the Civil Disobedience Movement and the Salt March.
2. Nobel Peace Prize Nomination: Gandhi was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize five times, in 1937, 1938, 1939, 1947, and 1948. However, he never received the prize.
3. Gandhi Peace Prize: Established by the Government of India in 1995, the Gandhi Peace Prize recognizes individuals and institutions for their contributions to social, economic, and political transformation through nonviolent means.
4. United Nations International Day of Non-Violence: The United Nations designated Gandhi’s birthday, October 2nd, as the International Day of Non-Violence to honor his philosophy and promote nonviolent approaches to resolving conflicts.
5. Gandhi Jayanti: Gandhi Jayanti is celebrated as a national holiday in India on October 2nd to commemorate Gandhi’s birth anniversary. It’s an occasion to remember his life and legacy.
6. Statues and Memorials: Numerous statues, memorials, and institutions worldwide are dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, recognizing his contributions to peace, justice, and nonviolence.
7. Influence on World Leaders: Gandhi’s ideas and methods have inspired numerous leaders and movements around the world, from Martin Luther King Jr. to Nelson Mandela.
8. Legacy in Social and Political Movements: Gandhi’s philosophy of nonviolence and civil disobedience continues to inspire social justice movements, human rights campaigns, and peaceful protests globally.

While Gandhi didn’t receive traditional awards, his impact on the world is immeasurable. His principles of nonviolence, truth, and social justice have left an enduring legacy that transcends awards and honors.

Mahatma Gandhi Slogans

Mahatma Gandhi was known for his powerful and inspiring slogans that encapsulated his philosophy of nonviolence, civil disobedience, and the pursuit of justice. The slogans you mentioned are indeed some of his most famous ones:

1. “Do or Die”: This slogan was used to rally people to commit themselves fully to the struggle for India’s independence. It conveyed the urgency and determination required in the face of colonial oppression.
2. “Nonviolence is a weapon of the strong”: Gandhi believed that nonviolence required great strength and courage, challenging the misconception that nonviolence was a sign of weakness.
3. “Be the change that you want to see in the world”: This slogan emphasizes personal responsibility for initiating positive change. It encourages individuals to embody the values they wish to see in society.
4. “In a gentle way, you can shake the world”: This slogan highlights the power of nonviolent action to create significant and lasting impact, even through gentle and peaceful means.

Mahatma Gandhi Assassination

Mahatma Gandhi, a leader of nonviolent resistance and an instrumental figure in India’s struggle for independence, was tragically assassinated on January 30, 1948. He was killed by Nathuram Godse, a Hindu nationalist, in New Delhi, India.

Gandhi’s assassination took place at Birla House (now known as Gandhi Smriti), where he was holding his nightly prayer meeting. As Gandhi walked to the meeting, Godse approached him and shot him three times at close range. Despite being seriously wounded, Gandhi’s last words were reported to be “Hey Ram” (Oh God).

Nathuram Godse held deep-seated ideological differences with Gandhi. He believed that Gandhi’s approach to politics, particularly his stance on partition and his efforts to promote harmony between Hindus and Muslims, were detrimental to the interests of Hindu nationalism and the cause of Hindu rights.

Godse, along with a co-conspirator, was apprehended immediately after the assassination. He was put on trial, and in 1949, both Godse and his co-conspirator were found guilty and sentenced to death. Nathuram Godse was executed on November 15, 1949.

Gandhi’s assassination sent shockwaves throughout India and the world. It marked the tragic end of a life dedicated to nonviolence, civil rights, and social justice. Gandhi’s legacy lives on, and he is remembered as a global symbol of peaceful resistance and the pursuit of truth and equality.

Mahatma Gandhi’s Contribution in South Africa

Mahatma Gandhi’s significant contributions during his time in South Africa. Here is the key points:

• 1893 – Arrival in South Africa: Gandhi initially traveled to South Africa in 1893 to handle a legal case for his client, Dada Abdullah. This trip exposed him to the harsh realities of racial discrimination and apartheid, which ignited his passion for fighting against injustices faced by Indians and other marginalized communities.
• Moderate Phase of Resistance (1894 – 1906): During this period, Gandhi recognized the need to unite the diverse Indian community in South Africa to fight for their rights. He founded the Natal Indian Congress in 1894, an organization aimed at representing Indian interests and advocating for civil rights. To spread awareness and mobilize support, Gandhi started a newspaper called “Indian Opinion.”
• Passive Resistance Phase (1906 – 1914): Gandhi’s strategy evolved to include passive resistance, which he termed “Satyagraha.” He urged Indians to resist unjust laws and discrimination through nonviolent means. As part of his approach, he established the Tolstoy Farm, a communal living experiment where satyagrahis could practice nonviolence and self-sufficiency. Gandhi’s commitment to his principles led to his arrest and imprisonment, along with other activists.
• Negotiations and Agreements: Gandhi’s persistent efforts, including protests and negotiations, led to significant achievements. Through gradual negotiations, an agreement was reached with the government that addressed some of the major concerns of the Indian community. The government agreed to consider the issue of immigration with leniency and acknowledged several Indian demands.

Gandhi’s time in South Africa was a period of transformative experiences that shaped his philosophy of nonviolent resistance and civil disobedience. His methods and principles, developed during these years, would later become instrumental in India’s struggle for independence and continue to inspire social justice movements worldwide.

Mahatma Gandhi in India 1915

The important aspects of Mahatma Gandhi’s return to India and his role in the Indian National Movement.

• Return to India on Gokhale’s Solicitation: Gandhi returned to India in response to the urging of Gopal Krishna Gokhale, a senior leader of the Indian National Congress (INC) and a mentor to Gandhi. It was C.F. Andrews (also known as Deenbandhu) who conveyed Gokhale’s request to Gandhi in South Africa, encouraging him to join the Indian struggle for freedom.
• The Gandhian Period of Indian National Movement: Gandhi’s return marked the beginning of what is often referred to as the “Gandhian period” of the Indian National Movement. This phase is characterized by the widespread adoption of his principles of nonviolence, truth, and civil disobedience in the fight against British colonial rule.
• Leadership and Nonviolent Resistance: Gandhi quickly rose to prominence as a leader within the Indian National Congress. He brought his experiences from South Africa and his philosophy of nonviolence (Satyagraha) to the forefront of the Indian struggle for independence. Gandhi’s methods emphasized peaceful protests, boycotts, strikes, and civil disobedience as means to challenge British authority.
• Mass Movement and Indian Nationalism: Under Gandhi’s leadership, the Indian National Movement transitioned from a relatively elite-led struggle to a mass movement that encompassed people from all walks of life. His ability to mobilize and inspire millions made the nationalist movement a force to be reckoned with.
• Gokhale as Gandhi’s Political Guru: Gopal Krishna Gokhale played a crucial role in shaping Gandhi’s understanding of Indian politics and issues after his return to India. Gokhale became Gandhi’s political guru, guiding him in matters of strategy, leadership, and understanding the complexities of India’s political landscape.

Gandhi’s leadership during the Gandhian period had a profound impact on the course of India’s fight for freedom. His philosophy of nonviolence, emphasis on self-reliance, and commitment to social justice left an indelible mark on the Indian National Movement and continue to influence movements for justice and equality worldwide.

Mahatma Gandhi’s Early Movements

Mahatma Gandhi’s early movements were marked by his efforts to address social and political issues both in India and South Africa. These movements laid the foundation for his later philosophy of nonviolent resistance and civil disobedience. Here are some key early movements led by Gandhi:

1. Champaran Satyagraha (1917): Upon returning to India, one of Gandhi’s first major movements was the Champaran Satyagraha in 1917. He organized protests against the unjust treatment of indigo farmers by British landlords in Champaran, Bihar. This movement marked the beginning of his experimentation with nonviolent resistance in India.

2. Kheda Satyagraha (1918): In 1918, Gandhi led the Kheda Satyagraha in Gujarat. He supported local farmers who were unable to pay taxes due to crop failure caused by a severe famine. The movement aimed to secure relief measures for the affected farmers.

3. Ahmedabad Mill Strike (1918): The Ahmedabad Mill Strike of 1918 was a pivotal labor movement in India’s struggle for workers’ rights. Mahatma Gandhi supported the workers’ demand for a 50% wage increase, as opposed to the mill owners’ offer of 20%. Gandhi’s nonviolent intervention led to a strike, and he embarked on his first hunger strike to pressure both sides for a resolution. Faced with his fasting, the mill owners agreed to arbitration, resulting in a 35% wage increase. The strike showcased the power of nonviolent protest, highlighted Gandhi’s commitment to justice, and left a lasting impact on labor movements and workers’ rights in India.

Mahatma Gandhi in Indian National Movement

The major movements and events during Mahatma Gandhi’s involvement in the Indian National Movement. Here’s a summarized breakdown of each movement and event:

1. Khilafat Movement (1919): Gandhi supported the Khilafat Movement and sought Muslim cooperation against British rule by opposing the unjust Rowlatt Act. He called for a nationwide Satyagraha against the act, leading to recognition as a national leader. The Jallianwala Bagh Massacre prompted him to call off the Rowlatt Satyagraha.

2. Non-Cooperation Movement (1920): Gandhi linked the Non-Cooperation Movement with the Khilafat Movement. This movement aimed to boycott British institutions and products. The Chauri Chaura incident in 1922 led Gandhi to halt the movement.

3. Salt March and Civil Disobedience Movement (1930): Gandhi led the Salt March to break the British salt law, launching the Civil Disobedience Movement. He and followers marched to Dandi to produce salt from seawater, marking a major act of defiance.

4. Gandhi-Irwin Pact (1931): Gandhi accepted a truce offered by Viceroy Irwin, temporarily ending the Civil Disobedience Movement. He attended the Second Round Table Conference in London as the INC representative.

5. Communal Award and Poona Pact (1932): The Communal Award expanded separate electorates for minorities, leading to the Poona Pact between Gandhi and B.R. Ambedkar, promoting the interests of marginalized communities.

6. Mahatma Gandhi’s Resignation from INC (1934): Gandhi temporarily resigned from the Indian National Congress due to disagreements but returned to active politics in the Lucknow Session (1936).

7. Quit India Movement (1942): Gandhi launched the Quit India Movement demanding immediate British withdrawal from India during World War II. This movement saw mass protests and nonviolent resistance, leading to the arrest of major leaders, including Gandhi.

These movements and events reflect Gandhi’s commitment to nonviolence, civil disobedience, and the pursuit of India’s independence. They shaped the course of the Indian National Movement and had far-reaching impacts on India’s struggle against British colonial rule.

Mahatma Gandhi Death

Mahatma Gandhi, also known as Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, passed away on January 30, 1948. He was assassinated in New Delhi, India. His death marked a significant loss for the nation, as he was a key figure in India’s struggle for independence and an advocate for nonviolent civil disobedience. The anniversary of his death is observed as Martyrs’ Day in India.

Mahatma Gandhi Ideologies

Mahatma Gandhi’s ideologies were rooted in principles of nonviolence, truth, and social justice. His beliefs and philosophies not only guided his personal life but also shaped his approach to political activism and his role in India’s struggle for independence. Here are some key ideologies that defined Gandhi:

1. Nonviolence (Ahimsa): Nonviolence was the cornerstone of Gandhi’s philosophy. He believed in resolving conflicts and achieving change through peaceful means. Gandhi’s concept of nonviolence extended beyond physical harm to include nonviolent actions, thoughts, and words.

2. Truth (Satya): Gandhi considered truth as a supreme virtue. He believed in speaking and living truthfully, even in the face of adversity. His pursuit of truth meant aligning his actions with his beliefs and maintaining integrity in all aspects of life.

3. Satyagraha (Truth Force or Soul Force): Satyagraha was Gandhi’s method of nonviolent resistance. It involved passive resistance, civil disobedience, and the willingness to suffer for a just cause. Satyagraha aimed to awaken the conscience of oppressors and evoke positive change through empathy and moral pressure.

4. Self-Reliance and Simplicity: Gandhi promoted self-sufficiency and simplicity as a way to counteract the exploitation caused by excessive materialism. He advocated for self-reliance through practices like hand-spinning and self-sustaining communities.

5. Swaraj (Self-Governance): Gandhi’s vision of Swaraj encompassed not only political freedom from British rule but also self-governance at the individual and community levels. He believed that people should have the power to control their own lives and decisions.

6. Sarvodaya (Welfare of All): Gandhi envisioned a society where the welfare and upliftment of all individuals were prioritized. His emphasis on social justice aimed to eliminate inequality and uplift the marginalized sections of society.

7. Communal Harmony and Religious Tolerance: Gandhi stressed the importance of religious harmony and coexistence. He believed that all religions had inherent truths and that people from different faiths should respect and understand each other.

8. Constructive Programme: Gandhi emphasized constructive work that aimed at improving the lives of people, such as education, sanitation, and economic self-sufficiency. He believed that positive change could be achieved through practical actions.

9. Opposition to Untouchability: Gandhi was a vocal opponent of untouchability and worked tirelessly to eradicate this social evil. He sought to uplift and integrate marginalized communities into mainstream society.

10. Humility and Selflessness: Gandhi exemplified humility and selflessness, living a simple life and dedicating himself to the service of others without seeking personal gain.