Uncovering the Lesser-Known Information of Gandhi: Surprising Facts About the Father of the Nation
Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, better known as Mahatma Gandhi, is one of the most well-known figures in Indian history. He is widely recognized as the Father of the Nation and played a crucial role in India’s fight for freedom from British rule. His principles of nonviolent resistance have inspired countless people around the world and continue to be relevant today. However, there are several lesser-known facts about Gandhi that are surprising and interesting.
Early Years and Education
Gandhi was born in Porbandar, a coastal town in Gujarat, in 1869. His father was a high-level administrator in the local government, and his mother was deeply religious. Gandhi was a mediocre student in school but later went on to study law in London. Interestingly, while in London, Gandhi became a vegetarian after being deeply influenced by a meeting with a vegetarian friend.
Career as a Lawyer
After returning to India in 1891, Gandhi set up his law practice in Bombay. However, he struggled to find clients, and his practice failed. It was during this time that he became involved in community work around the city, which would shape the rest of his life.
Championing Women’s Rights
Gandhi was a champion of women’s rights and fought hard to improve their status in Indian society. He fought for women’s suffrage, education, and against child marriage and other social evils. One of his most famous quotes on women’s rights is, “To call woman the weaker sex is a libel; it is man’s injustice to woman. If by strength is meant moral power, then woman is immeasurably man’s superior.”
Salt March
One of the most iconic moments in Gandhi’s life was the Salt March of 1930. He led a group of freedom fighters on a 240-mile march from Sabarmati Ashram to the coastal town of Dandi to protest against the salt tax imposed by the British. The march was a watershed moment in India’s freedom struggle and brought Gandhi’s nonviolent resistance to the forefront of the world’s consciousness.
Assassination
Gandhi’s life was tragically cut short when he was assassinated by Nathuram Godse, a Hindu nationalist, on January 30, 1948. The assassination shocked the world and brought an end to one of the most influential lives of the 20th century.
In conclusion, while Gandhi is a well-known figure in Indian history, there are several lesser-known aspects of his life and work that are worth exploring. From his early struggles as a lawyer to his fight for women’s rights, Gandhi’s life was full of surprises and inspirational moments. His legacy lives on, and his principles of nonviolent resistance continue to inspire countless people around the world.
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