UNIT – 2
Words and Deeds
AND THEN GANDHI CAME
Jawaharlal Nehru
Analysis
The excerpt from Jawaharlal Nehru's "The Discovery of India" offers a compelling analysis of the profound impact Mahatma Gandhi had on India during the early 20th century. It provides insights into the prevailing conditions in India under British rule and how Gandhi's arrival sparked a transformative movement that revitalized the nation's spirit.
Nehru depicts India as a nation burdened by poverty, repression, and a sense of hopelessness following World War I. The aftermath of the war brought repressive legislation and martial law in Punjab, exacerbating the feeling of humiliation and anger among the people. The Indian society seemed paralyzed, and the widespread fear of the ruling authorities further stifled progress and change.
Gandhi's emergence on the scene acted as a breath of fresh air for the Indian people. He spoke the language of the masses, rallying them to resist fear and embrace truth and fearlessness. His philosophy of non-violent resistance, known as Satyagraha, resonated deeply with people, inspiring them to challenge oppressive systems and work for the welfare of all.
The key to Gandhi's influence was his emphasis on action. He not only advocated for political freedom from British rule but also directed attention towards eradicating social evils. His call to address issues like untouchability and uplift the marginalized brought a sense of purpose and unity among the people. Gandhi's simple lifestyle and rejection of materialism set a new standard, leading many to follow suit and adopt a more humble way of living.
Furthermore, Gandhi's vision for India was one of inclusivity and harmony. He sought to bridge the gaps between various communities and religions, emphasizing the fusion of cultures while preserving Indian roots. His efforts to empower women and ensure equality for all challenged traditional norms and encouraged progress towards a more just society.
Gandhi's magnetic personality and unwavering commitment to truth attracted millions, inspiring a psychological revolution across the nation. Fear and falsehood were confronted, leading to a newfound sense of self-confidence and determination. While not everyone wholly accepted Gandhi's ideas, his impact was undeniable, leaving a lasting impression on the collective consciousness of the Indian people.
In conclusion, Jawaharlal Nehru's analysis of Mahatma Gandhi's influence in "The Discovery of India" portrays Gandhi as a transformative figure who breathed new life into a despondent nation. His teachings of non-violence, truth, and fearlessness brought hope and unity to the masses, spurring them to challenge oppressive systems and work towards a more equitable and harmonious India. Gandhi's legacy as a visionary leader, advocating for both political freedom and social justice, continues to inspire generations and remains as a significant part of India's history.
1 . What was the condition of India before the arrival of Gandhi into the political scene?
Before the arrival of Gandhi into the political scene, India was facing challenging conditions under British rule during the early 20th century. The aftermath of World War I brought repressive legislation and martial law in Punjab, causing a sense of humiliation and anger among the Indian people. Poverty was widespread, and the nation was gripped by a pervasive feeling of hopelessness and despair. The British rule instilled fear in the minds of the Indian population, with a vast network of army, police, and secret services keeping people oppressed and submissive. The society was divided, and various communities faced discrimination, with untouchability being a prevalent social evil.
India's people were desperate for change, but they felt helpless and paralyzed by the oppressive regime. The arrival of Mahatma Gandhi marked a turning point as his philosophy of non-violent resistance and fearlessness inspired the masses to challenge the status quo and strive for independence and social justice. Gandhi's entry into the political scene brought a fresh wave of hope and unity, motivating people to take action for a better future.
2 . How does Nehru describe the arrival of Gandhi?
Jawaharlal Nehru describes the arrival of Gandhi as a powerful and transformative event in India's history. He portrays Gandhi's entry into the political scene as a breath of fresh air and a ray of hope amidst the challenging conditions prevailing under British rule. According to Nehru, Gandhi was like a "powerful current of fresh air" that made the people stretch themselves and take deep breaths, breaking free from the suffocating atmosphere of fear and oppression.
Gandhi's emergence is compared to a beam of light that pierced the darkness, removing the scales from the eyes of the Indian people, enabling them to see things clearly and differently. He is also likened to a whirlwind that upset the existing order, particularly the working of people's minds, challenging the prevailing mindset of subjugation and submission.
Overall, Nehru's portrayal of Gandhi's arrival emphasizes the transformative impact he had on the Indian society, inspiring people to rise above fear and embrace truth and action to work towards a better, more just India.
3 . What were Gandhi's major teachings?
Mahatma Gandhi, a prominent leader in India's struggle for independence, imparted several key teachings that continue to inspire people around the world. Some of his major teachings include:
1. Non-violence (Ahimsa): Gandhi's principle of non-violence, known as Ahimsa, was central to his philosophy. He believed in resolving conflicts and achieving change through peaceful means. He advocated for passive resistance and civil disobedience to protest against injustice and oppression.
2. Truth (Satya): Gandhi emphasized the importance of truth in thought, speech, and action. He believed that speaking the truth and living by it was essential for personal and social progress.
3. Self-reliance and Swadeshi: Gandhi encouraged self-reliance and self-sufficiency at the individual and community levels. He promoted the use of locally-made goods (Swadeshi) to strengthen India's economy and reduce dependency on foreign imports.
4. Simplicity and Non-materialism: Gandhi led a simple and austere lifestyle, emphasizing the value of reducing material desires and consumption. He believed in the importance of living with less to cultivate contentment and inner peace.
5. Service to Others (Seva): Gandhi emphasized the idea of selfless service to others and to society. He believed that true fulfillment came from serving and uplifting fellow human beings.
6. Unity and Communal Harmony: Gandhi worked towards uniting people from different backgrounds and religions, promoting communal harmony and understanding. He sought to bridge the gaps between various communities and emphasized the shared humanity of all individuals.
7. Satyagraha: Satyagraha, or the force of truth, was Gandhi's method of non-violent resistance. He believed that individuals could confront injustice and oppression with courage and truth, and that this power could lead to positive change.
8. Respect for All Living Beings: Gandhi advocated for compassion and respect towards all living beings, promoting vegetarianism and opposing cruelty to animals.
These teachings of Gandhi not only shaped India's struggle for independence but also left a lasting impact on the principles of non-violence, truth, and social justice worldwide. His legacy continues to inspire movements for peace, justice, and equality around the globe.
4 . What was Gandhi's idea of truth, according to Nehru?
According to Nehru, Gandhi's idea of truth went beyond conventional definitions. Gandhi's truth was not just limited to factual accuracy or external reality. Instead, it was a deeper concept that encompassed inner honesty, moral integrity, and alignment with one's conscience.
Gandhi believed that truth was not relative, and each individual had their own truth, which was influenced by their background, training, and experiences. It was a subjective understanding of what one felt and knew to be true. This personal truth was deeply connected to one's inner beliefs and values.
Gandhi's commitment to truth was unwavering, even in the realm of politics. He refused to compromise his principles or speak anything that he did not genuinely believe to be true. This unwavering dedication to truth sometimes made him appear dangerous as a politician, as he openly expressed his thoughts, even when they changed over time.
In essence, Gandhi's idea of truth was deeply rooted in fearlessness and integrity. He encouraged people to confront their fears and speak out their minds, acknowledging the changing phases of their beliefs. By embracing truth and fearlessness, Gandhi believed that individuals could attain a higher level of consciousness and work towards a just and ethical society.
5 . What were the two- fold actions of Gandhi?
The two-fold actions of Gandhi can be summarized as follows:
1. Challenging Foreign Rule: Gandhi's first and foremost action was directed towards challenging and resisting foreign rule, particularly the oppressive British colonial rule in India. He led various movements and campaigns against British policies and practices, advocating for India's independence and self-rule. Gandhi's philosophy of non-violent resistance, or Satyagraha, played a crucial role in mobilizing the masses and gaining international attention to India's struggle for freedom.
2. Addressing Social Evils: Gandhi's second action was focused on fighting against India's internal social issues and evils. He believed that India's independence would not be truly meaningful unless it was accompanied by social justice and equality. Gandhi worked tirelessly to eradicate social evils such as untouchability and caste discrimination. He also promoted unity among different religious and ethnic communities, emphasizing communal harmony and mutual respect.
In summary, Gandhi's two-fold actions were to challenge foreign rule through non-violent resistance and to address social injustices and inequalities within Indian society. These actions were aimed at achieving both political freedom and social transformation, making his approach to independence unique and holistic.
6 . What was the India of Gandhiji's dream?
The India of Gandhiji's dream was a nation based on principles of truth, non-violence, and social justice. He envisioned an independent India that would be free from foreign rule and also free from internal social evils and inequalities. Some key elements of Gandhiji's dream for India were:
1. Swaraj (Self-Rule): Gandhiji sought complete political independence for India, where the power would be in the hands of the people. He believed in the concept of Swaraj, where the Indian masses would govern themselves and make decisions for their own welfare.
2. Non-violence (Ahimsa): The cornerstone of Gandhiji's philosophy was non-violence or Ahimsa. He envisioned an India where conflicts were resolved through peaceful means and where people practiced non-violence in their thoughts, words, and actions.
3. Communal Harmony: Gandhiji dreamed of an India where people from different religious and cultural backgrounds lived in harmony and mutual respect. He worked tirelessly to bridge the gaps between various communities and promote unity among Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, and others.
4. Social Equality: Gandhiji believed in the eradication of caste discrimination and untouchability. He envisioned an India where all individuals, regardless of their social status or background, were treated with equal respect and dignity.
5. Village Empowerment: Gandhiji emphasized the importance of rural development and the empowerment of villages. He believed that the soul of India resided in its villages and worked towards their socio-economic upliftment.
6. Self-Reliance (Swadeshi): Gandhiji encouraged the use of locally-produced goods and self-reliance. He envisioned an India that was economically independent and free from reliance on foreign imports.
7. Education for All: Gandhiji believed in providing quality education to all, including the marginalized sections of society. He saw education as a means to empower individuals and uplift the nation.
8. Women's Rights: Gandhiji advocated for women's empowerment and equal rights. He dreamt of an India where women enjoyed the same opportunities and privileges as men.
9. Simple Living: Gandhiji's dream India promoted a simple and sustainable way of living. He encouraged people to lead a life of minimal materialism and focus on spiritual and ethical values.
Gandhiji's vision for India was deeply rooted in its ancient cultural heritage, yet he embraced modern thought and progress. His dream of an independent India that embodied truth, non-violence, and social justice continues to inspire generations, and his legacy remains an integral part of India's identity and aspirations.
7 . How does Nehru make a judgement of Gandhi as a person of great leadership and truth?
In his assessment of Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru portrays him as a person of exceptional leadership and truthfulness. Nehru's judgment of Gandhi is grounded in his personal observations and experiences of working closely with the Mahatma during India's struggle for independence. He highlights several key aspects that exemplify Gandhi's greatness as a leader and his commitment to truth:
1. Fearlessness and Truth: Nehru emphasizes that the essence of Gandhi's teachings was fearlessness and truth. Gandhi's quiet and determined voice urged people to be unafraid and resolute in upholding their convictions. He demonstrated this fearlessness in his actions and words, always speaking the truth and living by it. Gandhi's unwavering commitment to truth made him a symbol of uncompromising honesty.
2. Empowering the Masses: Nehru acknowledges that Gandhi's leadership style was unique and powerful. Unlike conventional leaders, Gandhi did not descend from the top; instead, he seemed to emerge from the millions of Indians, speaking their language and understanding their struggles. This quality allowed him to connect with the masses on a deep level, inspiring and empowering them to take action for their rights and freedom.
3. Emphasis on Action: Gandhi's leadership was not just about words; it was grounded in action. He led by example, actively participating in civil disobedience and non-violent resistance. His willingness to face imprisonment and other hardships for the sake of his beliefs demonstrated the sincerity of his commitment to truth and justice.
4. Inclusivity and Communal Harmony: Nehru recognizes Gandhi's efforts to promote communal harmony and unity among different religious and ethnic communities in India. Gandhi's vision of India included people from all backgrounds living in perfect harmony. He sought to break down the barriers of religion and caste, working towards creating a nation where every individual felt a sense of belonging and equality.
5. Respected and Influential: Nehru acknowledges that Gandhi's influence extended not only to his followers but also to his opponents and those who were initially unsure about his methods. Gandhi's persona and principles earned him respect both nationally and internationally. He became a towering figure on the global stage, advocating for peace and justice.
In conclusion, Nehru's judgment of Gandhi as a person of great leadership and truth stems from his direct experiences with the Mahatma and his deep understanding of Gandhi's philosophy and actions. Gandhi's unwavering commitment to fearlessness, truth, non-violence, and social justice made him an extraordinary leader who transformed India's struggle for independence and left a lasting impact on the world. Nehru's assessment stands as a tribute to the remarkable qualities and principles of Mahatma Gandhi, which continue to inspire and guide generations even after his time.
8 . In connection with Gandhi Jayanti, your school is organizing a programme to propagate the relevance of Gandhian values in the present day. Prepare a script of the speech on the topic.
Title: Celebrating Gandhi Jayanti - Propagating the Relevance of Gandhian Values in the Present Day
Good morning/afternoon, respected teachers, fellow students, and esteemed guests. Today, we gather here on the auspicious occasion of Gandhi Jayanti to pay tribute to the Father of our Nation, Mahatma Gandhi. His life and teachings have left an indelible mark on the history of our country and continue to inspire generations. As we celebrate this day, it is essential to reflect on the relevance of Gandhian values in the present day and their significance in shaping a better future.
Mahatma Gandhi was a visionary leader who led India to freedom through the principles of truth, non-violence, and selfless service. His philosophy of non-violence, or Ahimsa, emphasized that violence never brings lasting solutions to problems. Instead, he taught us to seek peaceful resolutions and transform conflicts through dialogue and understanding.
Gandhiji's teachings were not limited to India's struggle for independence; they extended to all aspects of life, promoting simplicity, self-reliance, and communal harmony. He stood for social justice and equality, advocating for the rights of the marginalized and the upliftment of the downtrodden.
As we look at the world around us today, we find that Gandhian values are more relevant than ever. In a world plagued by violence, conflict, and environmental degradation, the principles of non-violence and sustainability offer a glimmer of hope.
In the face of social injustices and inequality, Gandhian teachings remind us of the importance of standing up for the rights of others and working towards a more inclusive and compassionate society. Gandhi's emphasis on communal harmony is particularly crucial in today's diverse and interconnected world, where understanding and respecting different cultures and religions is essential for global peace.
Despite the relevance of Gandhian values, we must acknowledge that there are challenges in implementing them fully in the present day. The prevalence of hate speech, intolerance, and environmental degradation calls for collective action to uphold Gandhian principles.
As the youth of this nation, we have a crucial role to play in promoting Gandhian values in our daily lives. By practicing non-violence, empathy, and sustainability, we can become change agents, contributing to a more peaceful and harmonious world.
Our schools and communities can organize workshops and awareness campaigns to instill Gandhian values in the minds of young learners. We can take part in social service activities and volunteer initiatives that align with the principles of selfless service and equality.
In conclusion, as we celebrate Gandhi Jayanti, let us remember that Gandhian values hold the key to addressing the challenges of our times. By embracing truth, non-violence, simplicity, and social justice, we can build a brighter future for ourselves and generations to come.
Let us pledge to be torchbearers of Gandhian values and be the change we wish to see in the world. Only through collective efforts and by upholding the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi can we truly honor his legacy and create a world that is free from violence, hatred, and inequality.
Thank you, and let us all strive to make Gandhian values an integral part of our lives and society. Happy Gandhi Jayanti!
9 . There are various instances in our country where women are deprived of their rights. Write a Letter to the Editor of a newspaper about the way in which women's issues are presented
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State,]
[Date]
The Editor
[Newspaper Name]
[Newspaper Address]
[City, State]
Subject: Presenting Women's Issues: A Call for Balanced and Empowering Narratives
I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. I am writing to bring your attention to a matter of great concern that has been bothering me for quite some time - the way women's issues are presented in our society through various media platforms, including newspapers.
While it is heartening to witness the increased focus on women's rights and empowerment in recent years, I cannot help but notice a tendency towards sensationalism and biased narratives in some instances. As a responsible and influential media outlet, it is essential that we, as a society, take a more balanced and empowering approach when discussing women's issues.
First and foremost, it is crucial to acknowledge that women's issues are not limited to sensational headlines or isolated incidents of victimization. Women contribute immensely to society in various roles, be it as professionals, leaders, caregivers, or change-makers. By portraying women solely as victims or helpless individuals, we inadvertently perpetuate stereotypes and undermine their agency and strength.
Moreover, it is disheartening to witness instances where the focus seems to shift from highlighting achievements and contributions of women to trivializing their accomplishments or reinforcing traditional gender roles. By doing so, we miss the opportunity to inspire young girls and women to aspire for greatness and break barriers.
Furthermore, the way women's issues are presented also plays a significant role in shaping public perceptions and influencing policy decisions. Therefore, as a responsible newspaper, it is essential to strive for objective reporting, supported by accurate data and comprehensive analysis. This will not only elevate the quality of journalism but also foster a more informed and empathetic society.
As a reader and a member of this society, I urge the esteemed newspaper to actively work towards creating a platform that highlights women's voices, experiences, and achievements in diverse fields. Let us promote stories of resilience, determination, and triumph, which not only challenge stereotypes but also inspire both men and women to work together for a more equitable and inclusive society.
In conclusion, it is our collective responsibility to ensure that women's issues are presented in a manner that respects their agency, celebrates their accomplishments, and raises awareness about their rights and challenges. By doing so, we can foster a society that values and empowers its women, paving the way for a brighter and more progressive future.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I sincerely hope that this concern receives due attention, and we, as a society, take meaningful steps towards presenting women's issues in a fair and empowering manner.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
