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
Dear Editor,
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]
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