Shades of Mahatma Gandhi
The remarkable Mahatma Gandhi, an Indian hero, led his country to freedom from British Imperialists through a non-violent campaign. He was not only a revered figure in his nation but also held in high regard by many as almost saintly. However, it is important to acknowledge that he had some controversial aspects to his character. For instance, he had a peculiar habit of sleeping alone in beds with his grandnieces and other young women, which raises eyebrows. Additionally, he held shockingly racist views towards other races. Today, we aim to challenge your perception of Mr. Gandhi. By the end of this show, we believe you will have a different perspective on him. Before delving into that, let's provide a brief introduction to the man himself. Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, born on October 2, 1869, grew up in a relatively comfortable environment as his father held a prominent position in the Indian state of Porbandar. His mother, a deeply religious woman, instilled in him the value of cherishing the simple things in life. This upbringing shaped his ethical principles, which included non-violence, tolerance of others' beliefs, vegetarianism, and acts of self-purification. However, it is important to note that these beliefs were not without their contradictions. Gandhi faced a test of his principles when he traveled to London to study law. Despite promising his mother to resist the temptations of modern life, avoid women and meat, and uphold her teachings, he was exposed to the harsh realities of late 19th-century industrialization. The streets of London were far from the golden image portrayed, with many impoverished residents struggling to benefit from the country's industrial wealth. Gandhi witnessed poverty and activism during his time in London. This pattern continued when he journeyed to South Africa, where he encountered widespread destitution among the population.
