Mahatma Gandhi was a
political leader and freedom fighter in India who played a key role in India's
struggle for independence from British colonial rule. He was born on October 2,
1869, in Porbandar, a coastal town in present-day Gujarat, India. He was a
lawyer by profession and was trained in England.
Gandhi was a leader of the
Indian National Congress, the political party that led the independence
movement. He advocated for non-violent civil disobedience as a means of
resistance against the British government. He led several non-violent protests
and campaigns throughout his life, including the Non-Cooperation Movement in
1920 and the Salt Satyagraha in 1930.
Gandhi's philosophy of
non-violence and civil disobedience had a profound impact on the Indian
independence movement and inspired civil rights and freedom movements around
the world. He is often referred to as "Mahatma," which means
"great soul," and is considered one of the most influential leaders
in world history.
Gandhi was assassinated on
January 30, 1948, by Nathuram Godse, a Hindu nationalist. His death was a great
loss to the Indian Independence Movement and the world. He is remembered for
his philosophy of non-violence and his commitment to social justice and
equality.
Mahatma Gandhi is considered
the father of the Nation in India and his birthday 2nd October is celebrated as
Gandhi Jayanti, a national holiday in India. His philosophy of non-violence and
civil disobedience continues to inspire people around the world to this day.
Mahatma Gandhi was born
into a Hindu merchant caste family in British India. He was the youngest of
four brothers and one sister. He was married to Kasturba Makhanji Gandhi at the
age of 13, and the couple had four children together.
Gandhi was deeply religious and was deeply influenced by the Bhagavad Gita, a Hindu scripture. He believed in the principles of truth, non-violence, and service to others. He was a vegetarian and believed in simple living. He often wore a loincloth and shawl, and lived a simple and austere lifestyle.
Gandhi's personal life was marked by several personal and political controversies. He was arrested several times by the British government for his political activities. He spent many
years in prison, and his wife and children also suffered. During his time in prison, he wrote extensively, and many of his writings have been published as books.
Gandhi's personal life was also marked by his experiments with celibacy. He believed that sexual desire was a hindrance to spiritual growth and self-control. He advocated for celibacy
among his followers and even experimented with it himself. This caused tensions in his marriage and led to criticism from some of his contemporaries.
Despite these controversies, Mahatma Gandhi remains a revered figure in India and around the world for his philosophy of non-violence and his selfless dedication to the cause of Indian independence. His personal life was characterized by his commitment to his beliefs and his unwavering dedication to the service of others.