Essays

Mahatma Gandhi is called the "Father of the Nation". In the twentieth century, he had been one of the greatest leader of the World. He brought independence to the country. His weapons in this war were unique, namely, truth and non-violence.

Mohan Das Karam Chand Gandhi was born on 2nd October, 1869 at Porbander in Gujarat. His father was Dewan in Rajkot state. After passing his matriculation in 1887, he went to England to study law. In 1893 he went to South Africa. There he was appalled by pathetic conditions of coloured people and discrimination against the Indians and South Africans. He fought for their rights. He adopted a new method to fight against the British rulers. He practiced peaceful resistance to racial discrimination. His weapons were Satyagrah (Truth) and Ahinsa (non- violence). After winning the battle in South Africa, he returned to India in 1916.

His aim was to bring independence to the country and build it as a self-reliant nation. He started non-violence and non-cooperation movement to achieve the above objectives. He moved the masses with his sincerity, simplicity and sacrifice. Along with many leaders and countrymen, he was sent to the jail several times. Ultimately the Britishers realized that they cannot continue to rule India. They were unable to control the fire of Independence burning in the hearts of the masses. The millions were following the path of Mahatma Gandhi. On his behest, they were ready to lay their lives for the freedom of the country.

In August 1947, the Britishers had to retreat and India was declared as a free country. But unfortunately the country

was divided into two nations, India and Pakistan. The scene after the Independence was terrible. There was turmoil, chaos, terror and bloodshed all over. It caused heavy loss of life, character and property on both sides of the manmade border. Gandhi ji was saddened by the communal hatred. He began fast unto death, unless the condition at Neokhail in East Bengal, which was worst affected, was brought under control. Ultimately the peace returned among the Hindus and Muslims.

What Gandhi ji achieves in his life was a miracle. He lived in the hearts of millions of Indians and was respected by all. He laid great emphasis on banishing untouchability, Hindu-Muslim unity, removal of illiteracy, development of cottage and handloom industries, equality to women and development of villages and agriculture. He believed that purity of soul can be brought by sacrifice and service to the poor. He practices what he preached. He dedicated all his life in the upliftment of the poor; He personified the principle of simple living and high thinking. He was very sensitive and understanding. He laid his life for the country.

On 30th January 1948, the world lost a great leader. Mahatma Gandhi was killed by a fanatic, who did not like his way. There was gloom all over the nation. He was cremated at Rajghat in Delhi.

Although he is dead, his name lives. He lives in the heart of millions. Even after five decades, his principles, dedication and mission continue to inspire the country. The nation will always remain indebted to Mahatma Gandhi for giving it freedom.