Embracing the ethos of living unfettered, one must be poised to confront mortality without hesitation. Thus, fostering a resolute mindset prepared for the inevitability of death becomes paramount. Gandhi’s profound philosophy advocates for the cultivation of courage without resorting to the act of taking another’s life, regardless of the assailant’s identity, even if it be one’s own kin.
Despite encountering dissent from some factions in India regarding his non-violent principles, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi ascended to the stature of the father of the nation. Born on October 10, 1869, in the quaint village of Jorbandhar, Gandhi wielded the power to reshape India’s political landscape through his unwavering commitment to non-violence. Consequently, his legacy extends beyond national borders, illuminating India’s history and casting a radiant influence across the globe. Non-violence is an innate virtue of India and Gandhi elevated it to the pinnacle of purity, beauty, and tranquility -a guiding principle that not only transformed a nation but also left an indelible mark on the world.
In the eloquent words of the great poet Rabindranath Tagore, the emergence of Gandhi as the harbinger of India’s freedom took many by surprise, as few anticipated the depth of strength he would attain. Yet, it was the irresistible force of non-violence, akin to the beauty of serenity and the harmonious notes of music, that surged within him. Mahatma Gandhi, embodying a life of unwavering integrity and a relentless pursuit of justice, became the living embodiment of these principles.
In 1888, as Gandhi prepared to embark on his journey to study Law in London, he made two profound promises to his mother: a commitment to abstain from alcohol and a lifelong commitment to vegetarianism. Adhering to a vegetarian lifestyle in a country like England posed its challenges, yet Gandhi managed to sustain it during his three-year stay. In this foreign land, he incubated transformative thoughts that would later reshape the trajectory of India’s struggle for freedom, long under the grip of Western colonizers.
India, deeply rooted in non-violence as a religious and philosophical principle, found its champion in Gandhi. His revolutionary approach, termed ‘Sathyagraha,’ blended civil unrest and peaceful opposition, encapsulating the essence of Indian resistance. The very name ‘Sathyagraha’ was crafted to reflect the amalgamation of these forces. Non-violence, a blessing in a society marred by racism, caste divisions, and religious differences, became the linchpin of Gandhi’s strategy. The Sathyagraha movement, anchored in non-violence, operated under a set of guiding principles. These included refraining from hatred, curses, or revenge against the adversary, abiding by prison rules if incarcerated, and eschewing expectations of privileges not afforded to fellow prisoners. In essence, Gandhi’s Sathyagraha was not just a political movement but a profound embodiment of non-violence as a way of life.
This set of rules and regulations stands as a testament to Gandhi’s intelligence, strategic acumen, and unwavering commitment to his life’s principles, with non-violence at its pinnacle. Embedded within these guidelines are principles of honesty, integrity, and respect for every religion, reflecting Gandhi’s holistic approach to life. At times, Gandhi found himself compelled to defy civil laws in leading the revolution, but his methodology remained rooted in non-violence. This exemplifies a profound lesson, particularly for adherents of Buddhism, who seek self-discipline through the principles of Thrilakshana- Shila, Samadhi, and Pragnna.
Non-violence, in its essence, encompasses a commitment to abstain from any form of harm- be it verbal, mental, or physical. Gandhi’s unwavering stance against resorting to violence, aiming not for victory through harm but through principles, aligns with the teachings of Buddhism. Buddhism echoes the sentiment that true victory cannot be achieved by causing harm to others. Any triumph gained by inflicting physical or mental pain, as Buddhism teaches, is inevitably overshadowed by defeat in the broader sense. As we approach the celebration of Mahatma Gandhi’s birthday on October 10, 2023, let us, at Sathipattana magazine, reflect on and commemorate the enduring legacy of a man who championed non-violence as a transformative force.
Summary
Despite facing dissent in India, Gandhi’s commitment to non-violence made him the father of the nation, leaving an indelible mark globally. Born in 1869, Gandhi elevated non-violence to a guiding principle, shaping India’s history. His journey from a quaint village to a global icon is reminiscent of Tagore’s surprise at the depth of Gandhi’s strength, fueled by the irresistible force of non-violence. Gandhi’s transformative thoughts during his London studies paved the way for India’s freedom struggle, marked by the revolutionary ‘Sathyagraha’ movement- a fusion of civil unrest and peaceful opposition.
The set of rules governing ‘Sathyagraha’ reflects Gandhi’s intelligence and commitment, emphasizing non-violence’s pinnacle. These principles, aligned with honesty, integrity, and respect for all religions, resonated with Gandhi’s holistic approach. Rooted in Buddhism’s principles, the rules advocate self-discipline and non-violence, emphasizing that true victory doesn’t stem from causing harm. As we approach Gandhi’s 2023 birthday celebration, Sathipattana magazine invites reflection on his enduring legacy- a testament to non-violence as a transformative force.
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