Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, popularly known as Mahatma Gandhi, was a well-known figure in the Indian independence movement. His teachings of non-violence, civil disobedience, and peaceful protests continue to inspire people around the world. He was not just a leader, but also a philosopher, a politician, and a humanitarian. In this article, we will take a closer look at the life of this great man and his impact on the world.
Early Life
Born on October 2nd, 1869, in Porbandar, Gujarat, Mahatma Gandhi was the youngest of four children. His father, Karamchand Gandhi, was the chief minister of Porbandar, and his mother, Putlibai, was a devout Hindu. Gandhi was greatly influenced by his mother’s religious beliefs and values, which played a significant role in shaping his character.
At the age of 19, Gandhi moved to London to study law. He was deeply influenced by the Western philosophy of Henry David Thoreau and Leo Tolstoy, which preached the idea of non-violent resistance against injustice and oppression. After completing his studies, he returned to India in 1891 and started his legal practice in Bombay.
Political Activism
Gandhi’s first taste of political activism came when he was practicing law in South Africa in 1893. He was appalled by the racial discrimination faced by Indians in South Africa and was determined to fight for their rights. He organized many peaceful protests and campaigns to fight for equality and respect for Indian immigrants in South Africa.
Upon his return to India in 1915, Gandhi became deeply involved in the Indian independence movement. He advocated non-violent resistance and civil disobedience as a means to achieve independence from the British rule. His famous Salt Satyagraha in 1930, where he led a 240-mile march to protest against the British salt tax, caught the attention of the whole world and marked a turning point in the Indian independence movement.
The Legacy of Mahatma Gandhi
Gandhi’s teachings of non-violence and peaceful protests have influenced several leaders and activists around the world. Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela, and Aung San Suu Kyi, to name a few, have been inspired by Gandhi’s philosophy and have successfully used non-violent means to bring about social and political change.
Gandhi’s legacy extends beyond the political realm. He was a strong advocate for communal harmony, religious tolerance, and women’s rights. He also emphasized the importance of self-reliance and self-sufficiency through his concept of “swaraj” or self-rule.
Conclusion
Mahatma Gandhi’s life and teachings continue to inspire and guide people even today. His messages of non-violence, equality, and harmony are more relevant than ever in the current political and social climate. He remains a revered figure in India and around the world, and his birthday is celebrated as a national holiday in India. As we remember the life and legacy of this great man, let us strive to follow in his footsteps and spread love and peace in the world.
For more information on Mahatma Gandhi and his teachings, visit WhyIsExplained, a website dedicated to providing informative and educational articles on various topics.
Leave a Reply