Historic Events That Made Gandhiji a National Leader
Table of Content
Mahatma Gandhi (1869 to 1948) was an Indian lawyer, social reformer, and leader of the Indian independence movement. He is remembered worldwide for his philosophy of satyagraha - non-violent resistance based on truth and moral courage. His life story is an inspiring journey of discipline, service, and leadership that continues to guide students and young citizens in 2025.
Early Life and Family
Gandhi was born on 2 October 1869 in Porbandar, Gujarat. His father, Karamchand Gandhi, was dewan (chief minister) of Porbandar and later Rajkot. His mother, Putlibai, was deeply religious and influenced the spiritual environment at home. Gandhi grew up in a Vaishnava household with a strong Jain influence that emphasised non-violence, fasting, tolerance, and self-restraint.
Religion and Core Values
Gandhi’s beliefs were shaped by Vaishnavism and Jain traditions. From a young age, he practiced ahinsa (non-injury to all beings), vegetarianism, fasting, and respect for other faiths. These ideas later developed into his philosophy of satyagraha, which became the foundation of his leadership during India’s freedom struggle.
Quick Facts About Gandhiji
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| 2 October 1869 | Birth of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi in Porbandar, India |
| 1888–1891 | Studies law at Inner Temple, London |
| 1893–1914 | Fights discrimination in South Africa; develops principles of Satyagraha |
| 1915 | Returns to India; joins freedom struggle |
| 1920–1922 | Leads Non-Cooperation Movement for self-rule |
| 1930 | Walks Salt March (Dandi March) to protest British salt laws |
| 1942 | Launches Quit India Movement for immediate independence |
| 15 August 1947 | India gains independence; Gandhi advocates for peace and unity |
| 30 January 1948 | Gandhi is assassinated in New Delhi |
| Year | Event | Why it matters for students |
|---|---|---|
| 1869 | Birth of Mahatma Gandhi | Beginning of an influential leader whose values shape modern India |
| 1915 | Returns to India | Starts using non-violent protest for Indian freedom |
| 1930 | Dandi March (Salt March) | Example of peaceful mass protest for rights |
| 1947 | Independence of India | Shows the impact of unity and non-violence |
Journey to England
After passing his matriculation exam in 1887, Gandhi joined Samaldas College but found it difficult to study in English. His family encouraged him to study law in London so he could qualify as a barrister. Despite opposition from his community, he vowed not to touch wine, women, or meat while abroad and sailed to England in September 1888. There, he joined the Inner Temple law college and studied hard while exploring new ideas on religion and lifestyle.
Accomplishments
- Leadership of India’s independence movement through non-violent resistance.
- Promotion of communal harmony and uplift of the poor.
- Global inspiration for civil rights leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela.
- Advocacy for truth, simplicity, and service to society.
Related Resources
Mahatma Gandhi’s story is not just history, it is a guide for today’s youth. As we celebrate his birth anniversary and remember his legacy in 2025, his values of non-violence, truth, and service remain timeless lessons for students everywhere.
FAQs on Mahatma Gandhi Biography – The Father of the Nation and His Timeless Legacy
1. Who was Mahatma Gandhi and why is he famous?
Mahatma Gandhi was an Indian leader known as the Father of the Nation. He is famous for leading India’s freedom movement against British rule through non-violent resistance (ahimsa) and inspiring people worldwide with his message of truth, peace, and justice.
2. What is the significance of Gandhi Jayanti in India?
Gandhi Jayanti is celebrated every year on October 2nd to honor Mahatma Gandhi’s birth and ideals. It is a national holiday in India and the International Day of Non-Violence. The day promotes his values of non-violence, truth, and unity for building a better society.
3. How is Gandhi Jayanti observed worldwide?
Gandhi Jayanti is observed in India and globally as the International Day of Non-Violence with:
- Prayer meetings and tributes at Gandhi memorials
- Cleanliness drives and social service
- Discussions, art, and essay competitions in schools
- Global messages of peace and non-violence
4. What are the main teachings of Mahatma Gandhi?
Mahatma Gandhi’s main teachings include:
- Truth (Satya): Always speak and live honestly
- Non-violence (Ahimsa): Avoid harm to all living beings
- Simplicity and self-discipline
- Tolerance and respect for all communities
- Peaceful protest for justice
5. Can you share 5 famous Mahatma Gandhi quotes?
Five inspiring Mahatma Gandhi quotes:
- "Be the change you wish to see in the world."
- "The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others."
- "An eye for an eye makes the whole world blind."
- "The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong."
- "Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever."
6. When and how did Mahatma Gandhi die?
Mahatma Gandhi died on 30 January 1948 in New Delhi. He was assassinated by Nathuram Godse while attending a prayer meeting at Birla House. His last words were reportedly “Ram! Ram!”
7. What were the most important events in Gandhi's life?
Key milestones in Gandhi's life include:
- Birth: 2 October 1869, Porbandar, Gujarat
- Studies law in London (1888–1891)
- Advocacy in South Africa (1893–1914), developed Satyagraha
- Non-Cooperation Movement (1920–1922)
- Dandi Salt March (1930)
- Quit India Movement (1942)
- India’s independence (1947)
- Assassination (1948)
8. What does "Father of the Nation" mean?
The title "Father of the Nation" means that Mahatma Gandhi is regarded as the most important leader in India's journey to independence. His principles and actions shaped the nation’s values, unity, and struggle for freedom.
9. Why is Gandhi known as Bapu?
Gandhi is called Bapu, meaning ‘father’ in Gujarati, as a sign of respect and affection. The people of India viewed him as a guiding father figure during the freedom movement.
10. How can students participate in Gandhi Jayanti celebrations?
Students can celebrate Gandhi Jayanti by:
- Joining cleanliness drives (Swachhata Abhiyan)
- Speaking or writing about Gandhi’s life
- Creating posters, essays, or art based on his ideals
- Learning and sharing his quotes
- Practicing truth, non-violence, and unity in daily life
11. What is Satyagraha and why is it important?
Satyagraha is Gandhi’s principle of truthful, non-violent resistance to injustice. It is important because it became a powerful tool for mass movements, inspiring peaceful protests for social change and independence in India and around the world.
12. Which important books were written by Mahatma Gandhi?
Mahatma Gandhi wrote several important books, including:
- The Story of My Experiments with Truth (autobiography)
- Hind Swaraj or Indian Home Rule
- Satyagraha in South Africa
- Young India
- Various collections of speeches and letters
