Explore Gandhi's impactful journey in India: his return in 1915, transformative leadership in Champaran, Ahmedabad, and Kheda, and the historic Rowlatt Satyagraha campaigns.

Gandhi in India

Gandhi Returns to India

  • Gandhi returned to India in January 1915, with his efforts in South Africa being well-known among both educated and mass populations.
  • He decided to tour India for a year to understand the conditions of the masses.
  • During this time, Gandhi chose not to engage in any political matters for at least a year.
  • He was critical of the moderate politics prevalent at the time and was not in favor of the Home Rule agitation due to Britain's involvement in World War I.
  • Gandhi believed that non-violent satyagraha was the only effective method for achieving nationalist aims and stated he would join no political organization unless it embraced this creed.

Struggles in Champaran, Ahmedabad, and Kheda

  • During 1917 and 1918, Gandhi engaged in three major struggles:
    • Champaran: Gandhi led a movement against the exploitation of indigo planters.
    • Ahmedabad: He supported the mill workers in their demand for fair wages.
    • Kheda: Gandhi helped farmers who were struggling with a crop failure and tax demands.
  • These struggles were pivotal in shaping Gandhi's approach to non-violent resistance and highlighted his commitment to addressing the grievances of the common people.

Launch of Rowlatt Satyagraha

  • After his involvement in Champaran, Ahmedabad, and Kheda, Gandhi launched the Rowlatt Satyagraha in 1919.
  • This campaign was aimed at opposing the repressive Rowlatt Act, which allowed the British government to arrest and detain Indians without trial.
  • The Satyagraha campaign involved widespread non-violent resistance, including strikes, protests, and civil disobedience.
  • The movement was a significant step in India's struggle for independence and further established Gandhi's role as a leader of non-violent resistance.
đź“–