by Mahatma Gandhi, or Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, is remembered as the Father of the Nation in India. His philosophy of truth, non-violence, and justice inspired millions of Indians to rise against British colonialism without the use of arms. Gandhi’s life story is not only about India’s independence but also about values, ethics, and social reform. For UPSC and competitive exams, a detailed understanding of Mahatma Gandhi’s biography, history, and teachings is essential.
Introduction to Mahatma Gandhi
The Mahatma Gandhi introduction begins with his unmatched role in modern Indian history. He transformed India’s freedom struggle from being elite-driven to a mass movement. Gandhi gave people confidence that non-violent protest could bring down even the strongest empire. His principles remain relevant in today’s discussions on ethics, governance, and social justice.
Early Life of Mahatma Gandhi
The life of Mahatma Gandhi began on 2 October 1869 in Porbandar, Gujarat. He belonged to a middle-class Vaishya (trading) family. His father, Karamchand Gandhi, was the Diwan of Porbandar, while his mother, Putlibai, was deeply religious and instilled in him values of compassion and truth. These family influences shaped Gandhi’s lifelong belief in morality and spirituality.
Education and Formative Years Abroad
In 1888, Gandhi sailed to London to study law at the Inner Temple. His exposure to Western thought and his experiments with vegetarianism, religion, and philosophy broadened his outlook. After completing his studies, Gandhi moved to South Africa in 1893, where he faced racial discrimination.
It was here that Mohandas Gandhi transformed into a leader. The famous incident where he was thrown out of a train in Pietermaritzburg for being non-white marked the turning point of his life. He started movements against racial injustice and developed the method of satyagraha, which later became his weapon against colonial rule in India.
Mahatma Gandhi in India’s Freedom Struggle
When Gandhi returned to India in 1915, he was already a well-known figure due to his struggles in South Africa. He soon joined the Indian National Congress and worked to involve the masses in the independence struggle. Unlike earlier leaders, Gandhi believed in connecting with ordinary Indians, farmers, laborers, and women making the freedom struggle truly national.
Major Movements Led by Mahatma Gandhi
Here is a list of Major Movements Led by Mahatma Gandhi Ji.
| Year | Movement | Objective | Significance | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1917 | Champaran Satyagraha | Fight against exploitation of indigo farmers in Bihar | Gandhi’s first satyagraha in India | British forced to grant concessions |
| 1918 | Kheda Movement | Tax remission for famine-hit farmers in Gujarat | United peasants under satyagraha | Taxes suspended temporarily |
| 1919 | Rowlatt Satyagraha | Protest against Rowlatt Act | Sparked mass unrest | Led to Jallianwala Bagh tragedy |
| 1920-22 | Non-Cooperation Movement | Boycott of British goods, schools, titles | Mobilized millions | Suspended after Chauri Chaura incident |
| 1930 | Salt March (Dandi March) | Protest against salt tax | Symbol of self-reliance | Inspired Civil Disobedience Movement |
| 1942 | Quit India Movement | Immediate British withdrawal | Final mass movement before independence | Mass arrests, set stage for 1947 freedom |
Gandhi’s Philosophy and Ideals
Mahatma Gandhi’s biography is not just political but also philosophical. His main principles included:
-
Satyagraha (Truth-Force): The power of truth in resisting oppression.
-
Ahimsa (Non-Violence): The belief that violence only creates more injustice.
-
Sarvodaya: Upliftment of all sections of society, especially the weakest.
-
Trusteeship: Wealthy people should act as trustees of resources for society.
-
Swadeshi: Promoting local goods and self-reliance.
These ideals made Gandhi both a freedom fighter and a social reformer.
Gandhi’s Autobiography
The Gandhi autobiography, The Story of My Experiments with Truth, was written between 1925 and 1929. Unlike a typical autobiography, it is more of a spiritual journey. Gandhi openly shared his mistakes, struggles with truth, experiments with diet, celibacy, and non-violence. For UPSC aspirants, this book is valuable to understand his character and leadership style.
Life Story of Mahatma Gandhi Ji
The Mahatma Gandhi life story is a journey from simplicity to greatness. He started as a timid boy, became a lawyer, then a global leader of non-violence. His dedication to social reforms included fighting against untouchability, promoting women’s participation, and advocating for education and sanitation. Tragically, Gandhi was assassinated on 30 January 1948 by Nathuram Godse. His death shocked the world but his message lived on.
Social Reforms and Contributions of Gandhi Ji
Apart from leading India’s freedom struggle, Gandhi worked extensively on social reforms:
-
Abolition of Untouchability – Campaigns like Harijan Sevak Sangh.
-
Women Empowerment – Encouraged women’s participation in politics and protests.
-
Village Reconstruction – Promoted khadi, rural industries, and self-sufficiency.
-
Education – Advocated for Nai Talim (basic education).
-
Religious Harmony – Stood against communal violence and promoted unity.
10 Teachings of Mahatma Gandhi
Here are the 10 teachings of Mahatma Gandhi most relevant for UPSC and ethics:
-
Truth (Satya): Always align actions with truth.
-
Non-Violence (Ahimsa): Peaceful methods are more powerful than violence.
-
Satyagraha: Moral courage can defeat injustice.
-
Sarvodaya: Aim for the welfare of all, especially the poor.
-
Swadeshi: Use local goods and boycott foreign dependence.
-
Trusteeship: Wealth must serve society, not just individuals.
-
Religious Tolerance: Respect every religion equally.
-
Simple Living, High Thinking: True happiness lies in simplicity.
-
Village Upliftment: Villages form the foundation of India.
-
Self-Discipline: Personal discipline is key to social change.
All About Mahatma Gandhi in UPSC Context
For UPSC preparation, Gandhi’s role comes under multiple papers:
-
GS Paper I (History): Freedom struggle, Gandhi’s movements, and philosophy.
-
GS Paper II (Polity): Influence of Gandhi on constitutional values.
-
GS Paper IV (Ethics): Gandhi’s teachings in morality, trusteeship, and leadership.
-
Essay Paper: Topics like “Non-violence in world politics” or “Gandhi’s relevance today” are common.
FAQs on Mahatma Gandhi
Q1. Who called Gandhi “Mahatma”?
Rabindranath Tagore first addressed Gandhi as “Mahatma” (Great Soul).
Q2. What is the Gandhi autobiography?
The Story of My Experiments with Truth, written by Gandhi himself.
Q3. Why is Gandhi called the Father of the Nation?
Because he united Indians through non-violence and led the freedom movement to success.
Q4. What was Gandhi’s view on religion?
He respected all religions equally and believed in harmony among communities.
Q5. What is Gandhi’s legacy in modern India?
Democracy, secularism, and non-violent protest movements draw inspiration from his ideals.
