Gandhian Era

The Gandhian Era refers to the period in Indian history dominated by Mahatma Gandhi (1915–1947).
Gandhi returned to India from South Africa in 1915 and soon became a key leader in the Indian nationalist movement.
He introduced the philosophy of Satyagraha, which emphasized non-violent resistance to injustice.
The Champaran Satyagraha (1917) marked Gandhi’s first significant involvement in Indian politics, supporting indigo farmers against exploitation.
The Kheda Satyagraha (1918) aimed to assist farmers unable to pay taxes due to famine.
During the Ahmedabad Mill Strike (1918), Gandhi mediated between workers and employers, securing better wages for laborers.
The Rowlatt Act (1919) led Gandhi to launch a nationwide protest, marking the beginning of his leadership in mass movements.
The Jallianwala Bagh Massacre (April 13, 1919) intensified anti-British sentiment and reinforced Gandhi’s commitment to non-violence.
The Non-Cooperation Movement (1920–1922) was launched to resist British rule through boycotts of schools, courts, and foreign goods.
The movement gained massive support but was called off by Gandhi after the Chauri Chaura incident (1922).
Gandhi emphasized the importance of khadi (hand-spun cloth) and self-reliance to counter British economic exploitation.
In 1930, Gandhi led the Dandi March to protest the British salt monopoly, marking the beginning of the Civil Disobedience Movement.
The Gandhi-Irwin Pact (1931) resulted in the suspension of the movement and Gandhi’s participation in the Second Round Table Conference.
The failure of the conference led to the resumption of the Civil Disobedience Movement.
The Quit India Movement (1942) was launched by Gandhi, demanding an end to British rule in India.
His slogan, "Do or Die," inspired millions to participate in the movement despite brutal British repression.
Gandhi’s philosophy was rooted in truth (satya) and non-violence (ahimsa).
He advocated for communal harmony and opposed the division of India on religious grounds.
Gandhi played a crucial role in bridging the gap between the Indian National Congress’s moderate and extremist factions.
He encouraged the involvement of women and marginalized communities in the freedom struggle.
Gandhi’s leadership extended beyond politics to include social reforms, such as the abolition of untouchability.
He founded the Harijan Sevak Sangh in 1932 to promote the welfare of Dalits.
Gandhi’s constructive programs included rural development, sanitation, and education.
He was instrumental in resolving several communal disputes during his lifetime.
Gandhi opposed industrialization and emphasized the importance of village-based economies.
He faced criticism from various quarters, including radicals who felt his methods were too slow.
The Round Table Conferences (1930–1932) were a significant phase in Gandhi’s negotiations with the British.
Gandhi’s correspondence with global leaders like Roosevelt and Churchill highlighted India’s demand for freedom.
The Poona Pact (1932) was signed between Gandhi and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar to address Dalit representation in politics.
Gandhi’s idea of Ram Rajya symbolized an ideal state based on justice and equality.
He drew inspiration from religious texts like the Bhagavad Gita and the Bible.
Gandhi’s movements significantly weakened the economic and administrative grip of the British in India.
His influence extended to global movements for civil rights and freedom, inspiring leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela.
Despite his efforts, the partition of India in 1947 deeply pained Gandhi.
He was assassinated on January 30, 1948, by Nathuram Godse, a radical opposed to his views.
The Gandhian Era remains a defining period in India’s struggle for independence, marked by its emphasis on ethics, non-violence, and inclusivity.