Role of Mahatma Gandhi in India’s Freedom Struggle

Mahatma Gandhi, also known as the Father of the Nation, was the central figure in India’s struggle for independence. His philosophy of non-violence (Ahimsa) and civil disobedience (Satyagraha) inspired millions to stand against British rule peacefully. From the Champaran movement (1917) to India’s independence (1947), Gandhi played a crucial role in mobilizing the masses and challenging colonial oppression.

This article explores Gandhi’s early influences, major movements, leadership strategies, and his enduring impact on India’s freedom struggle.

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1. Gandhi’s Early Life and Influences

• Born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, Gujarat, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi studied law in London and later worked in South Africa (1893–1915).
• In South Africa, he fought against racial discrimination and developed his ideas of Satyagraha (truth-force) and non-violent resistance.
• He returned to India in 1915 and, under the guidance of Gopal Krishna Gokhale, began working for India’s independence.

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2. Gandhi’s Key Movements in India’s Freedom Struggle

A. Champaran and Kheda Satyagraha (1917–1918)

• His first major movement in India was in Champaran (Bihar), where he fought for the rights of indigo farmers exploited by British landlords.
• In Kheda (Gujarat), he led a non-violent protest against unjust tax collection during a famine.
• These victories established non-violent resistance as a powerful tool for mass movements.

B. Non-Cooperation Movement (1920–1922)

• Launched after the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre (1919), this movement called for boycotting British goods, schools, and services.
• Gandhi encouraged Indians to adopt Swadeshi (self-reliance) and spin their own clothes using Charkha (spinning wheel).
• The movement was halted after the Chauri Chaura incident (1922), where violent protests led to the killing of policemen.

C. Civil Disobedience Movement & Salt March (1930)

• The British Salt Tax affected common people, so Gandhi launched the Dandi March (Salt Satyagraha) in 1930, walking 240 miles from Sabarmati to Dandi to make salt illegally.
• This movement saw mass participation, including women and rural workers, and was a major step toward India’s freedom.
• The British responded with arrests, but the movement shook their control over India.

D. Quit India Movement (1942)

• During World War II, Gandhi launched the Quit India Movement, demanding an immediate end to British rule.
• He gave the historic call of “Do or Die”, urging Indians to protest peacefully but persistently.
• The British arrested Gandhi and Congress leaders, leading to widespread protests, strikes, and rebellion.

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3. Gandhi’s Leadership Strategies

A. Non-Violence (Ahimsa)

• Gandhi believed in winning over the enemy through love and truth rather than force.
• His peaceful protests and hunger strikes became powerful tools against British oppression.

B. Satyagraha (Truth & Resistance)

• A method of passive resistance, where people would refuse to obey unjust laws but without violence.
• Inspired global leaders like Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela, and the Dalai Lama.

C. Promotion of Hindu-Muslim Unity

• Opposed religious divisions and worked for communal harmony.
• Opposed the Partition of India (1947) but was unable to prevent it.

D. Upliftment of the Untouchables (Harijans)

• He called Dalits Harijans (Children of God) and fought against untouchability.
• Led the Vaikom Satyagraha (1924) in Kerala, demanding temple entry for Dalits.

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4. Gandhi’s Role in India’s Independence and Assassination

• After World War II, British control weakened, and Gandhi participated in negotiations leading to India’s independence (August 15, 1947).
• However, Partition led to Hindu-Muslim violence, which deeply saddened him.
• On January 30, 1948, Gandhi was assassinated by Nathuram Godse, a Hindu extremist who blamed him for supporting Muslims and Pakistan.

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5. Legacy of Mahatma Gandhi

A. Influence on India

• Inspired India’s democratic and secular principles.
• Advocated for rural development, self-reliance, and social justice.
• His birthday, October 2, is celebrated as Gandhi Jayanti and observed as International Day of Non-Violence.

B. Global Influence

• Leaders like Nelson Mandela (South Africa) and Martin Luther King Jr. (USA) adopted his principles in their struggles for civil rights.
• His ideas on non-violence, truth, and justice continue to inspire movements worldwide.

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Conclusion

Mahatma Gandhi played a transformative role in India’s freedom struggle. Through his principles of non-violence, truth, and passive resistance, he united millions against British rule and paved the way for an independent India. His vision of a just, inclusive, and peaceful society remains relevant today, making him one of history’s greatest leaders.