The life and work of Mahatma Gandhi ji

Aspect	Details

Full Name

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi

Birth Date and Place

October 2, 1869, Porbandar, Gujarat

Parents

Karamchand Gandhi (Father), Putlibai Gandhi (Mother)

Religious and Early Influences

Gandhi’s upbringing was influenced by Vaishnavism and Jainism, emphasizing compassion, vegetarianism, and non-violence (Ahimsa). His mother’s deep religiosity left a significant mark on him.

Education

Gandhi went to London in 1888 to study law at University College London. He studied various religious texts including the Bhagavad Gita, Bible, and works of Tolstoy and Ruskin, which deeply influenced his spiritual outlook. He completed his degree in 1891.

Early Career in India

After returning to India in 1891, Gandhi struggled to establish a successful law practice. His initial legal career in Bombay (now Mumbai) was unsuccessful.

Time in South Africa (1893-1915)

Gandhi accepted a contract to work for an Indian firm in South Africa in 1893. Here, he encountered severe racial discrimination, such as being thrown off a train for being in a “whites-only” compartment despite having a valid first-class ticket. These events propelled him into activism. Gandhi developed his philosophy of Satyagraha (truth-force or non-violent resistance) and led protests against discriminatory laws, especially the pass laws that targeted Indians. His campaigns resulted in significant victories for civil rights in South Africa. He also established the Phoenix Settlement, a community for those who shared his ideas of simple living and equality.

Return to India and Early Movements

After returning to India in 1915, Gandhi joined the Indian freedom struggle. At the behest of his mentor Gopal Krishna Gokhale, Gandhi spent the initial years traveling across India to understand the plight of the common people. His early successes included the Champaran Movement (1917), where he led a successful campaign against oppressive indigo planters in Bihar, and the Kheda Movement (1918), where peasants in Gujarat were facing heavy taxation despite crop failures. Gandhi’s approach of non-violent protest forced the British authorities to give in to the farmers’ demands.

Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922)

After the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre in 1919, where British forces killed hundreds of unarmed civilians, Gandhi initiated the Non-Cooperation Movement in 1920. He urged Indians to boycott British goods, institutions, and services. The movement saw widespread participation but was abruptly called off in 1922 after the Chauri Chaura incident, where protesters killed 22 policemen, as Gandhi insisted the movement must remain non-violent. Although the movement was suspended, it marked Gandhi as the undisputed leader of the freedom struggle.

Salt March and Civil Disobedience (1930)

In 1930, Gandhi launched the Salt March, one of his most iconic acts of civil disobedience, protesting the British salt tax. Gandhi walked 240 miles from his ashram in Sabarmati to the coastal village of Dandi, where he made salt from seawater, in direct defiance of British law. The march sparked widespread civil disobedience across India and brought international attention to the Indian independence cause. The Civil Disobedience Movement followed, with people refusing to comply with unjust British laws. Though it faced brutal suppression, it laid the foundation for further resistance.

Round Table Conference (1931)

Gandhi represented the Indian National Congress at the Second Round Table Conference in London in 1931 to discuss constitutional reforms in India. Although the conference did not yield significant results, it marked Gandhi’s position as the foremost leader of India’s independence movement on the international stage.

Quit India Movement (1942)

During World War II, the Indian National Congress launched the Quit India Movement, calling for an immediate end to British rule. Gandhi’s famous call, “Do or Die,” ignited mass protests across India. The British responded by arresting Gandhi and other leaders, yet the movement gained unprecedented momentum and underscored the Indian resolve for freedom. Gandhi’s non-violent strategy and mass mobilization during this period brought India’s independence closer.

Partition of India (1947)

Gandhi opposed the partition of India, believing it would lead to violence and disunity. Despite his efforts to mediate between Hindus and Muslims, India was divided into two nations—India and Pakistan—in 1947. The partition resulted in widespread communal violence, with millions displaced and hundreds of thousands killed. Gandhi’s fasts and appeals for peace were instrumental in curbing violence in regions like Calcutta (Kolkata) and Delhi.

Assassination

On January 30, 1948, Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated in New Delhi by Nathuram Godse, a Hindu nationalist who opposed Gandhi’s advocacy for peace and tolerance towards Muslims. Gandhi’s death sent shockwaves across India and the world, and he was mourned as the “Father of the Nation.”

Philosophy and Ideology

Gandhi’s philosophy was grounded in Satya (truth) and Ahimsa (non-violence). He believed that non-violent resistance, or Satyagraha, was the most powerful way to resist oppression and injustice. He also promoted Swadeshi, encouraging Indians to be self-reliant by using local goods, particularly through the revival of khadi (homespun cloth). Gandhi was a firm advocate of simplicity, humility, and self-discipline, emphasizing ethical and moral living. He believed in uniting people across religious and caste lines and dedicated much of his life to ending untouchability, which he called the “blot” on Hindu society.

Social Reforms

Gandhi’s commitment to social reform was far-reaching. He led campaigns against untouchability, referring to the marginalized Dalit community as Harijans (“children of God”). He fought for the integration of these communities into mainstream society, although he faced criticism for not going far enough in dismantling the caste system. Gandhi also advocated for women’s rights, encouraging women to participate in the freedom struggle and promoting their role in society. His wife, Kasturba Gandhi, was a close collaborator in his social work.

Criticism

Gandhi’s methods and ideas have not been without controversy. Some critics argue that his approach to non-violence was impractical, particularly in situations of extreme oppression. His moderate stance on caste issues and his failure to fully address the economic concerns of the Dalit community have been critiqued. Others, especially Muslim leaders like Muhammad Ali Jinnah, believed Gandhi’s religious outlook was too Hindu-centric, contributing to the demand for a separate Muslim state. Gandhi’s pacifist approach during moments of communal violence and his role in the partition of India have also faced criticism.

Global Influence

Gandhi’s legacy has had a profound impact beyond India. His philosophy of non-violent resistance influenced global leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. during the American Civil Rights Movement, Nelson Mandela during the struggle against apartheid in South Africa, and Aung San Suu Kyi in Myanmar’s pro-democracy movement. His ideas of civil disobedience continue to be a source of inspiration for movements for justice and freedom across the world.

Legacy

Mahatma Gandhi is revered as the “Father of the Nation” in India, and his birthday, October 2, is celebrated worldwide as the International Day of Non-Violence. His ideas continue to resonate with global movements for peace, justice, and equality. Gandhi’s life and work have been documented in numerous books, films, and academic works, ensuring that his message remains relevant for future generations.

Books Written by Mahatma Gandhi

Book Title	Year	Description
Hind Swaraj or Indian Home Rule	1909	Written during Gandhi’s return voyage from South Africa, this book outlines his vision for India’s future and his critique of Western civilization and modernity.
My Experiments with Truth (Autobiography)	1927	Gandhi’s autobiography, covering his early life, career in South Africa, and the development of his philosophy of non-violent resistance.
Satyagraha in South Africa	1928	This book provides a detailed account of Gandhi’s struggles and campaigns in South Africa, where he developed his philosophy of non-violent resistance.
Key to Health	1942	Gandhi’s guide on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, promoting simplicity, vegetarianism, and a holistic approach to well-being.
The Moral Basis of Vegetarianism	1946	A collection of Gandhi’s writings on the moral and ethical reasons for adopting a vegetarian diet, reflecting his personal beliefs and practices.
Constructive Programme: Its Meaning and Place	1941	This book explains Gandhi’s vision for a self-reliant India, emphasizing the importance of rural development, khadi, and social reform.
Truth is God	1955	A posthumous compilation of Gandhi’s thoughts on spirituality, truth, and religion, illustrating his deep connection between faith and ethical living.
Village Swaraj	1962	A collection of Gandhi’s ideas and writings on village development, promoting self-sufficiency and decentralization as the foundation of India’s economic model.

The life and work of Mahatma Gandhi ji

Mahatma Gandhi, often referred to as the “Father of the Nation” in India, was a pivotal figure in the country’s struggle for independence. Born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, Gujarat, Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violence and truth (Satya) became central to the Indian freedom movement. His leadership in significant movements like the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920), Civil Disobedience Movement (1930), and the Quit India Movement (1942) played a crucial role in weakening British colonial rule.

Gandhi’s life was marked by his unwavering commitment to non-violent resistance, or Satyagraha, which inspired global leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela. He advocated for social reforms, including the abolition of untouchability, the promotion of village industries, and the empowerment of women. His autobiography, “The Story of My Experiments with Truth,” offers insights into his spiritual and political journey.

Assassinated on January 30, 1948, by Nathuram Godse, Gandhi’s legacy continues to inspire movements for peace, freedom, and justice worldwide. His birthday, Gandhi Jayanti, is observed as the International Day of Non-Violence by the United Nations, celebrating his enduring impact on humanity.

MCQs on The life and work of Mahatma Gandhi ji

 

1. Which of the following statements about Mahatma Gandhi is/are correct?
   1. Gandhi was born in Porbandar, Gujarat.
   2. He was born on October 2, 1869.
   3. He was known as “Bapu.”
      a) 1 only
      b) 2 only
      c) 1 and 2 only
      d) 1, 2, and 3
      Answer: d) 1, 2, and 3
2. Which of the following statements about “Satyagraha” is/are correct?
   1. It means “truth-force.”
   2. It was a method used by Gandhi in his struggles.
   3. It advocates for violence in protest.
      a) 1 only
      b) 2 and 3 only
      c) 1 and 2 only
      d) 1, 2, and 3
      Answer: c) 1 and 2 only
3. Which of the following statements regarding the Dandi March is/are correct?
   1. It took place in 1930.
   2. It was a protest against the salt tax.
   3. Gandhi marched from Delhi to Mumbai.
      a) 1 and 2 only
      b) 2 and 3 only
      c) 1, 2, and 3
      d) 1 only
      Answer: a) 1 and 2 only
4. Which of the following statements about Gandhi’s autobiography is/are correct?
   1. It is titled “The Story of My Life.”
   2. It discusses his philosophy of non-violence.
   3. It was written in English.
      a) 1 only
      b) 2 only
      c) 1 and 3 only
      d) 2 and 3 only
      Answer: b) 2 only
5. Which of the following statements about Ahimsa is/are correct?
   1. It is a principle of non-violence.
   2. It is synonymous with Satyagraha.
   3. Gandhi emphasized it in his teachings.
      a) 1 only
      b) 2 only
      c) 1 and 3 only
      d) 1, 2, and 3
      Answer: d) 1, 2, and 3
6. Which of the following statements about Gandhi’s activism is/are correct?
   1. He fought against racial discrimination in India first.
   2. His activism began in South Africa.
   3. He returned to India in 1915.
      a) 1 and 2 only
      b) 2 and 3 only
      c) 1 only
      d) 1, 2, and 3
      Answer: b) 2 and 3 only
7. Which of the following statements about the Quit India Movement is/are correct?
   1. It was launched in 1942.
   2. It aimed for immediate independence from British rule.
   3. It was led by Jawaharlal Nehru.
      a) 1 and 2 only
      b) 1 and 3 only
      c) 2 and 3 only
      d) 1, 2, and 3
      Answer: a) 1 and 2 only
8. Which of the following statements regarding Gandhi’s assassination is/are correct?
   1. Gandhi was assassinated on January 30, 1948.
   2. He was killed by a member of the Indian National Congress.
   3. Nathuram Godse was the assassin.
      a) 1 only
      b) 2 and 3 only
      c) 1 and 3 only
      d) 1, 2, and 3
      Answer: c) 1 and 3 only
9. Which of the following statements about “Sarvodaya” is/are correct?
   1. It promotes the welfare of all.
   2. It was a major focus of Gandhi’s economic philosophy.
   3. It refers specifically to agricultural development.
      a) 1 only
      b) 2 only
      c) 1 and 2 only
      d) 1, 2, and 3
      Answer: c) 1 and 2 only
10. Which of the following statements about the Champaran Satyagraha is/are correct?
    1. It involved indigo farmers.
    2. It was Gandhi’s first significant involvement in Indian politics.
    3. It took place in 1920.
       a) 1 only
       b) 1 and 2 only
       c) 2 and 3 only
       d) 1, 2, and 3
       Answer: b) 1 and 2 only
11. Which of the following statements about Gandhi’s influence is/are correct?
    1. His methods inspired Martin Luther King Jr.
    2. He was a key figure in the Russian Revolution.
    3. His philosophy is taught in various peace studies programs.
       a) 1 only
       b) 2 only
       c) 1 and 3 only
       d) 1, 2, and 3
       Answer: c) 1 and 3 only
12. Which of the following statements regarding Gandhi Jayanti is/are correct?
    1. It is celebrated on January 30.
    2. It marks the birth anniversary of Gandhi.
    3. It is observed as the International Day of Non-Violence.
       a) 1 only
       b) 2 only
       c) 2 and 3 only
       d) 1, 2, and 3
       Answer: c) 2 and 3 only
13. Which of the following statements about “Swaraj” is/are correct?
    1. It means self-rule.
    2. It was a goal for Gandhi during the independence movement.
    3. It specifically refers to political independence.
       a) 1 only
       b) 2 and 3 only
       c) 1 and 2 only
       d) 1, 2, and 3
       Answer: d) 1, 2, and 3
14. Which of the following statements about the Harijan Movement is/are correct?
    1. It aimed to uplift the lower castes.
    2. It promoted the use of untouchables in temples.
    3. Gandhi played a significant role in this movement.
       a) 1 only
       b) 2 only
       c) 1 and 3 only
       d) 1, 2, and 3
       Answer: c) 1 and 3 only
15. Which of the following statements regarding Gandhi’s economic views is/are correct?
    1. He supported large-scale industrialization.
    2. He advocated for cottage industries.
    3. He believed in self-sufficiency for villages.
       a) 1 only
       b) 2 and 3 only
       c) 1 and 2 only
       d) 1, 2, and 3
       Answer: b) 2 and 3 only
16. Which of the following statements about Jawaharlal Nehru’s relationship with Gandhi is/are correct?
    1. Nehru was influenced by Gandhi’s philosophy.
    2. They were rivals in the Indian National Congress.
    3. Nehru played a crucial role in the independence movement alongside Gandhi.
       a) 1 only
       b) 2 only
       c) 1 and 3 only
       d) 2 and 3 only
       Answer: c) 1 and 3 only
17. Which of the following statements regarding the International Day of Non-Violence is/are correct?
    1. It is celebrated on October 2.
    2. It is recognized globally to promote non-violence.
    3. It commemorates the day Gandhi was assassinated.
       a) 1 only
       b) 2 only
       c) 1 and 2 only
       d) 1, 2, and 3
       Answer: c) 1 and 2 only
18. Which of the following statements about Gandhi’s approach to industrialization is/are correct?
    1. He was against all forms of industrialization.
    2. He promoted the idea of village industries.
    3. He believed industrialization should benefit the poor.
       a) 1 only
       bHere’s the continuation of the MCQ set in the requested format:
19. Which of the following statements about Gandhi’s approach to industrialization is/are correct?
    1. He was against all forms of industrialization.
    2. He promoted the idea of village industries.
    3. He believed industrialization should benefit the poor.
       a) 1 only
       b) 2 only
       c) 2 and 3 only
       d) 1, 2, and 3
       Answer: c) 2 and 3 only
20. Which of the following statements regarding Gandhi’s views on education is/are correct?
    1. He advocated for a system of education that included manual labor.
    2. He believed education should be accessible to all, including the poor.
    3. He supported the idea of Western-style education.
       a) 1 only
       b) 1 and 2 only
       c) 2 only
       d) 1, 2, and 3
       Answer: b) 1 and 2 only

Other Most Important Topics

1. General Biography

• Mahatma Gandhi biography
• Mahatma Gandhi early life
• Gandhi’s childhood in Porbandar
• Gandhi’s education in London
• Mahatma Gandhi as a lawyer
• Gandhi’s life in South Africa

2. Philosophy and Ideology

• Mahatma Gandhi philosophy
• Gandhi on non-violence (Ahimsa)
• Satyagraha movement
• Gandhi’s views on Swaraj
• Mahatma Gandhi’s concept of truth (Satya)
• Trusteeship theory of Gandhi
• Gandhi’s views on caste and untouchability
• Sarvodaya (welfare for all)

3. Indian Freedom Struggle

• Gandhi’s role in Indian independence
• Mahatma Gandhi’s political movements
• Gandhi’s Non-Cooperation Movement
• Dandi Salt March (1930)
• Quit India Movement (1942)
• Champaran Satyagraha
• Kheda Satyagraha
• Gandhi’s role in Partition of India

4. Major Events and Milestones

• Mahatma Gandhi’s assassination
• Gandhi and the partition of India
• Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru
• Gandhi and Subhas Chandra Bose
• Gandhi and Kasturba Gandhi
• Gandhi’s imprisonment by British rule

5. Books and Writings by Gandhi

• Mahatma Gandhi books
• My Experiments with Truth (Gandhi’s autobiography)
• Hind Swaraj
• Satyagraha in South Africa
• Key books written by Mahatma Gandhi
• Gandhi’s letters and speeches

6. Social Reforms and Contributions

• Gandhi’s work against untouchability
• Harijan movement
• Gandhi’s views on education and village upliftment
• Gandhi’s work for women empowerment
• Khadi movement and Gandhi
• Gandhi’s economic ideas

7. Global Influence

• Mahatma Gandhi’s influence on Martin Luther King Jr.
• Gandhi’s impact on Nelson Mandela
• Global movements inspired by Gandhi
• Gandhi’s influence on civil rights movements
• International Day of Non-Violence (Gandhi Jayanti)

8. Movies, Documentaries, and Visual Content

• Mahatma Gandhi documentary
• Gandhi (1982 movie by Richard Attenborough)
• Documentaries on Gandhi’s life
• Films about Mahatma Gandhi

9. Commemorations and Memorials

• Gandhi Jayanti (2nd October)
• Gandhi’s birthday celebrations
• Raj Ghat – Mahatma Gandhi memorial
• Mahatma Gandhi’s statue and memorials across the world
• Gandhi in Indian currency and stamps

10. Criticism and Controversies

• Gandhi’s views on caste system controversy
• Criticism of Gandhi’s role in Partition
• Debates on Gandhi’s economic ideas
• Nathuram Godse and Gandhi’s assassination

11. For Exam Preparation (UPSC, BPSC, RPSC etc.)

• Mahatma Gandhi’s role in the Indian National Movement
• Gandhi and the Non-Cooperation Movement UPSC notes
• Champaran Movement Gandhi BPSC
• Satyagraha and Gandhi’s movements
• Gandhi’s autobiography for exam preparation
• Ethics and Gandhi in UPSC syllabus
• Gandhi’s leadership style and social reform notes

Ten powerful quotes attributed to Mahatma Gandhi that reflect his philosophy on non-violence, truth, and humanity:

1. “Be the change that you wish to see in the world.”
   This quote emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility in creating positive change.

2. “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”
   Gandhi believed that selflessness and service to humanity were essential for personal growth.

3. “An eye for an eye only ends up making the whole world blind.”
   This quote advocates for non-violence and understanding instead of revenge.

4. “You must be the change you wish to see in the world.”
   Similar to the first, it emphasizes individual action as the catalyst for global change.

5. “Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.”
   This speaks to the importance of living fully and continuously seeking knowledge.

6. “Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will.”
   Gandhi valued mental strength and determination over mere physical power.

7. “Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.”
   This quote highlights the significance of alignment between one’s thoughts, words, and actions.

8. “In a gentle way, you can shake the world.”
   Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violence suggests that change can be achieved through peaceful means.

9. “The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong.”
   This emphasizes that true strength lies in the ability to forgive.

10. “What difference does it make to the dead, the orphans, and the homeless, whether the mad destruction is wrought under the name of totalitarianism or the holy name of liberty and democracy?”
    This quote critiques both oppressive and supposedly democratic systems when they cause suffering.