Mahatma Gandhi (1869–1948), often called the Father of the Nation in India, was a pioneering leader of the Indian independence movement, a social reformer, and a symbol of non-violence and truth. Born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, Gujarat, as Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, he spent his early years in a traditional Hindu family. After finishing his early education, Gandhi traveled to London in 1888 to study law at University College London. Upon completing his studies, he returned to India in 1891 as a qualified barrister, but soon left for South Africa in 1893, where he spent 21 transformative years.
In South Africa, Gandhi faced severe racial discrimination, which had a profound impact on him. He developed the concept of Satyagraha—a philosophy of passive resistance and non-violent protest. In South Africa, Gandhi organized the Indian community to fight for their civil rights and led successful campaigns against discriminatory laws, which set the foundation for his future work in India.
Returning to India in 1915, Gandhi became involved in the freedom struggle, joining the Indian National Congress and transforming the movement with his ideals of non-violence (Ahimsa) and truth (Satya). He led several significant campaigns against British rule, including the Champaran and Kheda Satyagraha, where he protested for the rights of farmers facing oppressive tax systems. He also initiated the Non-Cooperation Movement in 1920, encouraging Indians to boycott British goods and institutions and to adopt Swadeshi (self-reliance).
Gandhi’s most iconic protest, the Salt March (Dandi March) in 1930, was a 240-mile journey to the Arabian Sea to protest the British monopoly on salt. This act of civil disobedience mobilized millions across India and drew global attention to the independence movement. His principles and strategies were instrumental in rallying people of diverse backgrounds—peasants, laborers, and intellectuals—toward a united cause.
During World War II, Gandhi launched the Quit India Movement in 1942, calling for immediate independence and mass protests against British rule. His call for “Do or Die” resonated across the country, leading to a nationwide movement. Although the movement faced severe repression and Gandhi was imprisoned, the spirit of independence grew stronger.
Gandhi was also a reformer who addressed issues such as untouchability, Hindu-Muslim unity, and rural development. He advocated for the rights of the Dalits, whom he called Harijans (“children of God”), and believed in an inclusive society where all castes and communities could coexist. His efforts extended beyond political independence to social and economic reforms aimed at creating a self-sufficient India.
However, Gandhi’s vision of unity faced challenges, particularly as Hindu-Muslim tensions escalated, leading to the Partition in 1947. Although deeply pained by the Partition, he continued to promote peace, especially in areas affected by communal violence.
Tragically, on January 30, 1948, Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated by Nathuram Godse, a Hindu nationalist who opposed Gandhi’s efforts toward Hindu-Muslim reconciliation. Gandhi’s death was mourned across the world, and his teachings of non-violence have since inspired numerous global leaders, including Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela. Gandhi’s legacy remains powerful today, symbolizing the strength of peace, justice, and tolerance.
