Infobox (Summary Table)

Early Life and Education

Mahatma Gandhi was born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, a coastal town in present-day Gujarat, India. He belonged to a Hindu Modh Bania family. His father, Karamchand Gandhi, was the Diwan (chief minister) of Porbandar and other princely states, while his mother, Putlibai, was a deeply religious woman whose values left a lasting impression on him.

Gandhi received his early education in Porbandar and Rajkot. Though he was a shy and average student, he was disciplined and curious. In 1888, at the age of 18, he traveled to London to study law at the Inner Temple. He completed his studies and became a barrister in 1891. His time in England broadened his understanding of the world and introduced him to Western philosophies and literature, which had a profound effect on his thinking.

From an early age, Gandhi was influenced by religious and moral teachings, particularly those of Hinduism and Jainism. His mother’s devout lifestyle inspired in him the values of non-violence, truth, and self-discipline. He was also greatly influenced by spiritual texts such as the Bhagavad Gita and by thinkers like John Ruskin and Leo Tolstoy. His experiences of racial discrimination in South Africa further shaped his worldview and led him to develop the concept of Satyagraha—a philosophy of nonviolent resistance that would become central to his leadership in India’s struggle for independence.

Career

Mahatma Gandhi began his career as a lawyer after returning to India from England in 1891. However, he struggled to establish a successful practice in Bombay. In 1893, he accepted a one-year contract to work for an Indian firm in South Africa. It was there that his political career truly began, as he faced and witnessed severe racial discrimination against Indians. This experience motivated him to fight for civil rights and laid the foundation for his philosophy of nonviolent resistance, or Satyagraha.

One of Gandhi’s major milestones came in South Africa, where he led campaigns for the rights of Indian immigrants. He organized peaceful protests and civil disobedience against unjust laws, which gained international attention. After returning to India in 1915, he joined the Indian National Congress and soon became a key leader in the struggle for independence. Milestones in his Indian campaign include the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920), the Salt March (1930), and the Quit India Movement (1942). Each of these events demonstrated his commitment to nonviolence and mass civil resistance.

Gandhi’s most significant achievement was his leadership in the Indian independence movement, which ultimately led to India gaining freedom from British rule in 1947. He inspired millions of Indians to resist colonial oppression through nonviolent means. His methods and philosophy not only changed the course of Indian history but also influenced global civil rights movements, including those led by Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela.

Throughout his life, Gandhi worked in collaboration with several key figures in India’s freedom movement. He partnered with leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and Maulana Abul Kalam Azad. Though there were differences in approach, their shared goal of independence kept them united. Gandhi also built bridges between different religious and social communities, promoting unity and harmony in a diverse nation. His partnerships with ordinary citizens, farmers, and laborers were equally important, as they formed the backbone of his mass movements.

Personal Life

-Mahatma Gandhi was married at a young age, in accordance with the customs of the time. At the age of 13, he married Kasturba Gandhi, who became a lifelong partner in both his personal life and public endeavors. Their marriage evolved from a traditional union into a strong partnership, with Kasturba actively participating in Gandhi’s social and political movements until her death in 1944.

Gandhi and Kasturba had four sons: Harilal, Manilal, Ramdas, and Devdas. While Gandhi was deeply devoted to his family, his commitment to public service often took precedence, which sometimes led to strained relationships with his children, particularly with his eldest son, Harilal.

Gandhi had a wide range of hobbies and interests that reflected his simple and spiritual lifestyle. He was an avid reader and writer, with a deep interest in religious texts, philosophy, and social reform. He practiced spinning on the charkha (spinning wheel), which became both a personal discipline and a symbol of self-reliance. He also enjoyed walking, nature, and fasting as a form of spiritual and political practice.

Throughout his life, Gandhi was deeply engaged in philanthropy and activism. He worked tirelessly to improve the conditions of the poor, uplift the untouchables (whom he called Harijans, or “children of God”), promote education, and fight social injustices. His campaigns extended beyond Indian independence to include advocacy for women's rights, religious tolerance, and rural development. His philosophy of truth, nonviolence, and service to others became the cornerstone of his activism and inspired movements for justice and equality around the world.

Death and Legacy

Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated on January 30, 1948, in New Delhi, India. He was shot by Nathuram Godse, a Hindu extremist who opposed Gandhi's efforts to promote Hindu-Muslim unity and his perceived leniency towards Muslims after Partition. Gandhi was on his way to a prayer meeting at Birla House when he was shot three times at close range. His last words were reportedly “Hey Ram.”

Gandhi’s funeral took place on January 31, 1948, and was attended by over a million people from all walks of life. His body was taken in a large procession through the streets of Delhi and cremated at Raj Ghat, which has since become a national memorial and pilgrimage site. The ceremony was marked by national mourning and global expressions of grief.

After his death, Gandhi received numerous posthumous recognitions. He was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize five times, although he never received it. Internationally, he is honored as a symbol of peace and nonviolence. In India, his birthday, October 2, is celebrated as Gandhi Jayanti, a national holiday, and is also observed as the International Day of Non-Violence by the United Nations.

Gandhi’s influence on society and the world has been profound and enduring. He reshaped the Indian freedom movement through nonviolent civil disobedience and inspired leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela, and the Dalai Lama. His principles of truth (Satya), nonviolence (Ahimsa), and civil resistance (Satyagraha) continue to be studied and applied in struggles for justice and human rights across the globe. Gandhi remains a moral icon and a global symbol of peaceful resistance and transformative leadership.

Awards and Honors

List of Awards with Years

Mahatma Gandhi did not receive many formal awards during his lifetime, as he often rejected honors and preferred to serve quietly. However, several recognitions were either offered or awarded to him:

• Kaiser-i-Hind Medal (1915) – Awarded by the British Government for his public service in South Africa. Gandhi returned it in 1920 as a protest against the Jallianwala Bagh massacre and British colonial policies.
• Nobel Peace Prize – Nominated five times (1937, 1938, 1939, 1947, and 1948), but never received it. The Nobel Committee later publicly expressed regret for not awarding him posthumously.

Honorary Degrees

Gandhi was not known for accepting many honorary degrees, as he believed in humility and simplicity. However, some institutions acknowledged his contributions:

• Shantiniketan (Visva-Bharati University) – Rabindranath Tagore’s institution conferred upon him the title of Mahatma, and though not a formal degree, it was a deep gesture of honor.
• Some international universities, including those in the UK and the USA, offered honorary degrees, but Gandhi generally declined such honors during his lifetime.

Other Recognitions

• Time Magazine's Man of the Year (1930) – For leading the Salt March and influencing global movements for justice and peace.
• UN Declaration of October 2 as the International Day of Non-Violence (2007) – A major global tribute to Gandhi’s philosophy.
• Numerous Statues and Memorials Worldwide – Including in London’s Parliament Square, Washington D.C., Johannesburg, and many more cities.
• Indian Currency Tribute – His portrait appears on all Indian currency notes, symbolizing national reverence.
• Gandhi Peace Prize – Established by the Government of India in 1995, awarded to individuals and institutions promoting peace and nonviolence.
  
  

Gandhi’s legacy is honored more through ideological impact than personal awards, which aligns with his belief in service over recognition.

Bibliography / Filmography / Discography 

Here is a list of key works by Mahatma Gandhi along with their publication or release years:

Major Works by Mahatma Gandhi

1. Hind Swaraj or Indian Home Rule – 1909
• Written in Gujarati aboard a ship from London to South Africa, this book outlines Gandhi’s vision for self-rule and his critique of modern civilization.
2. An Autobiography: The Story of My Experiments with Truth – 1927–1929
• Originally published in Gujarati in installments in Navajivan, it was later translated into English. This autobiography covers Gandhi’s life from childhood through the 1920s.
3. Satyagraha in South Africa – 1928
• A detailed account of Gandhi’s early nonviolent resistance campaigns in South Africa.
4. Key to Health – 1921 (Gujarati); English translation later
• A guide on maintaining health through natural and simple living, reflecting Gandhi’s views on physical and moral well-being.
5. Constructive Programme: Its Meaning and Place – 1941
• A manifesto that outlines the social and economic reforms Gandhi believed essential for India’s freedom.
6. The Moral Basis of Vegetarianism – 1931
• A collection of Gandhi’s thoughts on vegetarianism, diet, and ethical living.
7. From Yeravda Mandir (Ashram Observances in Action) – 1932
• Written during his imprisonment at Yeravda Jail, this book reflects the spiritual practices and moral disciplines followed at his ashram.
8. Letters to Ashram – Published posthumously
• A collection of letters Gandhi wrote to members of his ashrams, guiding them on conduct, discipline, and service.
9. Young India – Weekly journal (1919–1932)
• Gandhi used this English-language publication to express his political views, reach the educated public, and promote nonviolence.
10. Harijan – Weekly journal (1933–1948)
• Another major publication where Gandhi addressed social issues, particularly the upliftment of the untouchables (Harijans), and offered spiritual and political commentary.

These works continue to inspire readers around the world, offering insight into Gandhi’s philosophy of truth, nonviolence, self-discipline, and social reform.

References

Citations of Sources Used

1. Gandhi, M. K. (1927–1929). An Autobiography: The Story of My Experiments with Truth. Translated from the original Gujarati by Mahadev Desai. Navajivan Publishing House.
• Gandhi’s personal narrative of his life, principles, and major events.

2. Gandhi, M. K. (1909). Hind Swaraj or Indian Home Rule. Navajivan Publishing House.
• A foundational political treatise where Gandhi outlines his vision for Indian self-rule.

3. Gandhi, M. K. (1928). Satyagraha in South Africa. Navajivan Publishing House.
• A historical account of Gandhi’s activism in South Africa and the development of nonviolent resistance.
  
  
4. Fischer, Louis. (1950). The Life of Mahatma Gandhi. Harper & Brothers.
• A comprehensive biography by a journalist who knew Gandhi personally and followed his career closely.
  
  
5. Wolpert, Stanley. (2001). Gandhi’s Passion: The Life and Legacy of Mahatma Gandhi. Oxford University Press.
• A scholarly biography that offers insight into Gandhi’s public and private life.

6. United Nations General Assembly. (2007). Resolution A/RES/61/271: International Day of Non-Violence.
• Official UN declaration honoring Gandhi’s philosophy.
7. Time Magazine. (1931). Mahatma Gandhi: Man of the Year.
• Recognition of Gandhi’s global influence after the Salt March.

8. Gandhi Heritage Portal. - https://www.gandhiheritageportal.org/
• A digital archive of Gandhi’s writings, speeches, and photographs maintained by the Government of India.
9. GandhiServe Foundation. https://www.gandhiserve.net/
• A non-profit organization offering resources and historical documents related to Gandhi’s life and work.
10. Ministry of Culture, Government of India. Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti - https://www.gandhismriti.gov.in/

• Official government site preserving Gandhi’s memory, featuring events, articles, and exhibits.

FAQs about Mahatma Gandhi

1. Why is Mahatma Gandhi called the Father of the Nation?

 Because he led India’s peaceful freedom struggle and inspired unity among diverse communities.

2. What was Gandhi’s profession?

 He was a trained lawyer, educated at Inner Temple, London.

3. What is the meaning of Satyagraha?

 Satyagraha means "holding onto truth"—a method of nonviolent protest and resistance.

4. Where did Gandhi begin his activism?

 His activism began in South Africa, fighting racial injustice.

5. What are Gandhi's most famous movements?

 The Non-Cooperation Movement, Salt March, and Quit India Movement.

6. Who assassinated Mahatma Gandhi and why?

 He was assassinated by Nathuram Godse, who opposed his views on religious tolerance.

Conclusion

The biography of Mahatma Gandhi is not just a timeline of events—it's a testament to the power of truth, the strength of nonviolence, and the courage to stand alone for justice. His life remains a beacon for those who seek change not through force, but through faith and perseverance.