Mahatma Gandhi was an Indian lawyer, politician, social activist, and writer who was born in Porbandar, India, on October 2, 1869, and passed away in Delhi on January 30, 1948. He led the Indian Independence Movement against British rule. Gandhi’s philosophy of using nonviolent protest (Satyagraha) to advance social and political change has earned him recognition on a global scale. Gandhi was regarded by millions of his fellow Indians as the Mahatma, or ‘Great Soul.’ His tours were a terrible ordeal because of the unquestioning devotion of the enormous crowds that flocked to see him along the way; he could hardly work during the day or sleep at night.
“Only the Mahatmas are aware of the woes of the Mahatmas,” he wrote. During his lifetime, his notoriety grew globally, and it continued to grow after his passing. These days, Mahatma Gandhi's name is among the most widely known worldwide.
Gandhi was the youngest child born to the fourth wife of his father. Under British suzerainty, his father, Karamchand Gandhi, served as the dewan (chief minister) of Porbandar, the capital of a small principality in Western India (in what is now the state of Gujarat). Gandhi had little formal education. But he was also a skillful administrator, able to find his way between the stubborn British political officers at the top and the erratic princes and their long-suffering subjects.
Putlibai, the mother of Gandhi, was totally devoted to her faith, had little taste for finery or jewelry, lived a fasting lifestyle, spent many days and nights caring for her family when someone was ill, and fasted regularly. Mohandas was raised in a household that was deeply rooted in Jainism, a morally strict Indian religion whose central ideas are nonviolence
and the notion that everything in the universe is eternal, along with a strong emphasis on Vaishnavism, the worship of the Hindu God Vishnu. As a result, he disregarded concepts like vegetarianism, fasting for self-purification, ahimsa (the non-injury of all living things), and tolerance between followers of different faiths and sects.
Truth, nonviolence, and feelings of patriotism have become less important in today's world. Many of the problems facing the materialistic world are a result of people's self-serving needs and desires, she believes. Jude Álvares from Quepem says that Gandhi worked tirelessly for the unity of people across different religions and communities, promoting harmony and understanding. He championed respect for all individuals, regardless of their background, and fought against discrimination and social inequalities.
“Gandhi strongly believed in resolving conflicts through peaceful means and advocated for non-violence as a powerful tool for social and political change. He held truth as a fundamental principle, emphasizing the importance of honesty in both personal conduct and political activism,” points out Jonathan Mendonça from Margão.
“Gandhiji had a vision and a mission, a naturistic, realistic and humanist who believed that Scientific discoveries should be not against humanity and I greatly appreciate his 3H formula i.e Head (Intellectual), Heart (Emotional) and Hand (Skill) Developments which are of great importance, especially in these times when technologies are often misused. AI, IT, Digital, Mobiles, Robots, Nuclear technologies are replacing natural intelligence, our traditional skills, our love and compassion towards each other and world peace,” says Irwin Antão from Chandor, a devout fan of Gandhi.
Gandhi’s principles of non-violence, truth, and social justice continue to inspire many around the world. His message of love, compassion, and non-violence has resonated with many across generations. His belief in the power of love to effect change encourages individuals to see beyond differences and work towards unity and understanding. The love for Gandhi often manifests in the commitment of individuals and groups to continue his work, promoting peace, justice, and compassion in their communities and beyond.
Gandhi believed that cultivating love and peace within oneself is crucial for spreading it to the world. His practices of meditation and self-reflection serve as reminders of this. He emphasized the importance of forgiveness, believing it to be essential for healing and moving forward, both personally and socially.
The youth today stand at crucial crossroads, where the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi can offer invaluable guidance in navigating modern challenges. Gandhi's principles of nonviolence, truth, and community empowerment resonate deeply in an age marked by conflict, social inequality, and environmental crises. By embracing these values, young people can foster a culture of compassion and active citizenship, promoting dialogue over discord and cooperation over division. Gandhi’s emphasis on self-reliance and sustainable living also encourages the youth to innovate solutions that respect both people and the planet. Ultimately, adopting Gandhi's policies can inspire a generation to lead with integrity and purpose, creating a more just and peaceful world.
The youth following Gandhi's principles can lead to transformative change in society. By embracing nonviolence and peaceful protest, young people can advocate for justice and equality without resorting to hostility. Gandhi’s emphasis on truth and integrity encourages a culture of honesty and accountability, vital in today’s world of misinformation. Additionally, his focus on community service and grassroots activism inspires young individuals to engage in their communities, addressing local issues with innovative solutions. By adopting sustainable practices and promoting self-reliance, they can also combat environmental challenges, fostering a healthier planet for future generations. Ultimately, youth embodying Gandhi's ideals can create a powerful movement for social justice, resilience, and harmony.
Gandhi's principles are indeed evergreen, resonating across generations and cultures. His commitment to nonviolence remains a powerful tool for social change, inspiring movements worldwide that seek justice through peaceful means. The emphasis on truth and integrity serves as a timeless reminder of the importance of ethics in leadership and personal conduct. Additionally, Gandhi’s focus on community and service underscores the idea that real change begins at the grassroots level, encouraging individuals to take responsibility for their societies. His advocacy for simplicity and sustainable living is increasingly relevant in today's context of environmental degradation. Overall, Gandhi's teachings offer enduring wisdom, guiding individuals and communities toward a more just, compassionate, and harmonious world.