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Gandhi Before India: Rediscovering the Mahatma's Early Life and Influences

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Gandhi Before India

by Ramachandra Guha

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	18093 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
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Print length	:	689 pages

In his captivating biography, Gandhi Before India, renowned historian Ramachandra Guha delves into the formative years of Mahatma Gandhi, revealing the influences that shaped his vision and activism. Through meticulously researched accounts and vivid storytelling, Guha transports readers to Gandhi's childhood in Porbandar, his formative years in South Africa, and the profound experiences that ignited his lifelong commitment to nonviolent resistance.

From Porbandar to Phoenix

A Young Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi Gandhi Before India Ramachandra Guha

Gandhi's journey began in the coastal town of Porbandar, where he was born into a devout Hindu family. His early life was marked by deep family values, respect for tradition, and a strong work ethic. Gandhi's father, Karamchand Uttamchand Gandhi, was a Dewan (chief minister) of Rajkot, who instilled in his son a sense of duty and integrity.

At the age of 19, Gandhi left India to study law in England. During his seven years in London, he was exposed to Western ideas and philosophies. However, it was his experiences in South Africa that would profoundly shape his path. Gandhi arrived in South Africa in 1893 to practice law. There, he faced firsthand the discrimination and racism faced by Indians in a colonial society. This experience ignited his indignation and sparked his lifelong crusade against injustice and oppression.

The Birth of Satyagraha

Gandhi In South Africa Leading A March Gandhi Before India Ramachandra Guha — Gandhi leading a march in South Africa, fighting for Indian rights

In South Africa, Gandhi developed his philosophy of Satyagraha, meaning truth force or nonviolent resistance. This principle became the cornerstone of his political and social activism. Gandhi believed that by resisting oppression with peaceful means, individuals could achieve justice and social transformation.

Gandhi's experiences in South Africa were instrumental in shaping his vision for India's freedom struggle. He witnessed the horrors of apartheid, the harsh treatment of Indian laborers, and the denial of basic rights. These injustices fueled his determination to fight for equality and independence.

Returning to India

After two decades in South Africa, Gandhi returned to India in 1915. He was greeted with both fanfare and skepticism. Many hailed him as a hero for his work in South Africa, while others questioned his methods and his ability to lead India to freedom.

Undeterred, Gandhi immersed himself in the Indian independence movement. He traveled extensively throughout the country, organizing protests, galvanizing the masses, and advocating for nonviolent resistance. His message of unity and self-reliance resonated with Indians from all walks of life.

Gandhi Before India provides an in-depth exploration of the early life and influences that shaped Mahatma Gandhi into one of the twentieth century's most influential figures. Guha's meticulous research and engaging storytelling bring the young Gandhi to life, revealing the human experiences and transformative events that forged his vision and activism.

This captivating biography is an essential read for anyone seeking to understand the origins of Gandhi's philosophy and the legacy that continues to inspire countless around the world.

Gandhi Before India

by Ramachandra Guha

4.5 out of 5