OUR UNDERSTANDING OF NATIONAL MOVEMENT POST THE
COMING OF GANDHI TO INDIA.
Before returning to India in 1915 Mahatma Gandhi spent about 21 years in South
Africa (1893-1914). He went there to work as a lawyer but became deeply involved in
the struggle against racial discrimination. Gandhi's first major Satyagraha campaign
also took place in South Africa (1906), this marked one of the early instances where
he applied nonviolent resistance as a form of protest.
After Gandhi's arrival in India, the trend of the national movement changed.
He became a central figure in the freedom struggle, shaping the movement with his
philosophy of nonviolent resistance (Satyagraha).
Gandhiji began to carve out a unique place in people's hearts and minds. He wanted to
establish a relationship with the nation's common people. His statement, "If I have to
think about him, I have to live like him” demonstrates this. He used to dress like an
ordinary man and use Hindi rather than English in his speech.
A different enthusiasm could be seen in the national movement, when Gandhiji
arrived and his philosophy inspired millions of Indians to join the struggle for
independence from British Colonial rule.
The national movement saw various stages of protests, movements, and campaigns,
including the Non-Cooperation Movement, Civil Disobedience Movement, Quit India
Movement, and others. Gandhi's presence sparked a renewed sense of national pride
and unity. People began to identify more strongly with the idea of a free and
independent India
Gandhi's first major Satyagraha in India was in Champaran, Bihar, where he supported
indigo farmers facing oppressive practices by British landlords. He conducted a
detailed investigation, interacting with the affected farmers and gathering evidence to
present their case against the British planters.
He argued "on what charges the Britishers are arresting him" when he was informed
he might be arrested, and when he was eventually arrested during the satyagraha,
people began to view it as a courageous and principled stand against British
Oppression. This arrest solidified his reputation as a symbol of resistance against
injustice.
Gandhi's call for civil disobedience and non-cooperation resonated with many Indians.
People started to boycott British institutions, goods, and laws as a form of protest
against colonial rule. He also encouraged the participation of women in the
independence movement. Women, who had traditionally been less visible in political
activities, became more involved in various protests and campaigns.
Gandhi's influence extended beyond politics to social issues. He advocated for social
equality, eradication of untouchability, and promoted khadi (homespun cloth) as a
symbol of self-reliance. This can be reflected in his speech where he said “To gain
independence we must prove worthy of it, there must be hindu muslim unity always
and no Indians must be treated as the English treat us, we must remove untouchability
from our hearts and from our lives”.
Gandhi's approach also emphasised decentralised leadership. Local leaders emerged,
and communities took charge of their own movements, contributing to a more
decentralised and widespread resistance against British rule.
In conclusion,Gandhi's arrival in India sparked a shift in the country's national
movement as well as in the attitudes and behaviours of the populace. People began to
demonstrate against British Rule on a large scale, and they all desired India to become
independent of British rule.
Overall Gandhiji's visit to India laid the groundwork for a massive, nonviolent
independence movement that eventually led toIndia's independence in 1947.
DISCUSS CONTEMPORARY RELEVANCE OF GANDHI
Mahatma Gandhi played a pivotal role in India's struggle for independence against
British colonial rule and continues to have a significant influence in the contemporary
world.
Gandhi's philosophy and principles of non violence remain relevant in today's era
which is marked by conflicts and unrest.
Gandhi's philosophy of non violence can be reflected in his speech when he said- “we
must defy the British not with violence that will inflame their world bye with the
firmness that will open their eyes”
His philosophy provides insightful perspectives on issues ranging from social justice
and sustainability to nonviolent resistance.
His philosophy is used in a number of contemporary movements, such as
environmental activism and civil rights campaigns, demonstrating the continued value
of nonviolence as an effective means of bringing about change. Gandhi's emphasis on
social justice and equality continues to inspire movements fighting against
discrimination and injustice
For instance, The Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement, which gained momentum
globally, emphasises nonviolent resistance and peaceful protests as a means to address
systemic racism and injustice. Proponents of BLM draw inspiration from Gandhi's
principles of civil disobedience and nonviolent action. Demonstrators engage in acts
of peaceful protest, raising awareness about racial inequality, police misconduct, and
the need for social reform. Through the use of nonviolence, the BLM movement aims
to draw attention to these issues while upholding values that are consistent with
Gandhi's teachings.
This modern example highlights the continuing influence of Gandhi's philosophy on
movements that pursue positive change demonstrating the continued relevance of
nonviolent resistance in addressing social and racial injustices.
Gandhi's focus on self-reliance,simplicity, and balancing human existence with the
natural world aligns with the increasing global consciousness of environmental
sustainability. In the context of climate change, Gandhi's concept of "Swadeshi,"
self-sufficiency, supports the promotion of local and sustainable practices, minimising
environmental impact and reducing dependence on global supply chains. It also
encourages communities to rely on local resources and craftsmanship.
He also advocated for a lifestyle based on basic needs, rejecting excessive
consumerism. The idea of "simple living and high thinking" finds relevance in current
efforts to address climate change by promoting eco-friendly practices.
The nonviolent resistance advocated by Gandhi has influenced environmental
activism today. Movements and individuals working toward ecological preservation
often adopt nonviolent protests and civil disobedience to raise awareness about
environmental issues. Overall, Gandhi's philosophy provides a valuable framework for
addressing contemporary climate change challenges. The principles of sustainable
living, self-sufficiency, and nonviolent activism offer insights and inspiration for
individuals and movements striving to create a more environmentally conscious and
responsible world.
Furthermore, the nations facing disputes or conflicts can also draw inspiration from
Gandhi's emphasis on resolving differences through dialogue, negotiation, and
peaceful means. Nonviolent diplomacy becomes a powerful tool for fostering
understanding and resolving conflicts without resorting to violence.
Gandhi promoted religious and cultural harmony as a foundation for lasting peace. In
today's world which is marked by religious tensions and cultural diversity, his
philosophy encourages societies to embrace pluralism and respect differences.
Additionally, Gandhi's Philosophy encourages people to take responsibility for
promoting peace in their communities and beyond. Acts of compassion,
understanding, and nonviolent communication contribute to the larger goal of global
harmony.
In conclusion, the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi continue to be a source of motivation
and direction for navigating the complexities of the contemporary world.
From advocating nonviolent resistance to promoting social justice, sustainable living,
and global harmony, Gandhi's principles offer timeless wisdom. Embracing his legacy
can contribute to creating a more just, compassionate, and sustainable world
