Article summary
Abstract
Mahatma Gandhi (1869-1948) was one of the most important political and spiritual leaders of modern Indian history. His political philosophy was based on the ideas of violence, satyagraha and self-reliance, which gave a political basis to the people’s movement against colonialism. “Satyagraha, literally meaning” “devotion to truth,” “was a policy espoused by Gandhi that emphasized compassion for humanity while opposing injustice.” The basic purpose of satyagraha is to achieve social and political changes by following the truth at the level of thought, word and deed. By embracing violence under this principle, Gandhi embodied the people’s resistance to liberation from colonial rule. Non-violence is a key pillar of the Gandhian political philosophy, which prioritizes struggle based on the strength of the spirit of non-violence. Gandhiji believed that victory derived from violence is eternal, while the spirit of change through it is deeply rooted in the heart of society. He inspired various movements, such as the Co-operation Movement, the Civil Disobedience Movement and the Quit India Movement, to take an active part in the struggle for freedom, challenging not only British power but also the democratic power of the people. The impact of Gandhi’s political philosophy can also be seen at the global level. World leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela fought for social justice and human rights in their respective countries, drawing inspiration from Gandhi’s principles of non- violent resistance. In India’s perspective, Gandhian philosophy not only contributed significantly to the attainment of freedom but also attempted to instill the principles of morality-based politics, rural development, indigenous industries and welfare in the society even after independence. Although the political conditions have changed over time, non-violence and satyagraha still offer an effective path of moral and peaceful resistance. Gandhi ‘s political philosophy thus presents a revolutionary dimension based on truth and non-violence that influenced not only the course of the freedom struggle but the entire world. His ideology is extremely relevant in the present times for re-establishing moral values and building social harmony.