Logo

Essay on Role of Mahatma Gandhi in Freedom Struggle

Students are often asked to write an essay on Role of Mahatma Gandhi in Freedom Struggle in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Role of Mahatma Gandhi in Freedom Struggle

The birth of a leader.

Mahatma Gandhi was born in India in 1869. He studied law in England before returning to India. He later moved to South Africa, where he first used nonviolent resistance.

Gandhi’s Philosophy

Gandhi believed in ‘Satyagraha’, or truth-force. He thought peaceful protests were the best way to resist unfair laws. This was a new idea in the fight for freedom.

Gandhi and India’s Freedom Struggle

Gandhi returned to India in 1915. He led the Indian National Congress, guiding India towards independence. He organized nonviolent protests against British rule.

Legacy of Mahatma Gandhi

Gandhi’s nonviolent methods inspired many, and India gained independence in 1947. His ideas continue to influence people worldwide.

250 Words Essay on Role of Mahatma Gandhi in Freedom Struggle

Introduction.

Mahatma Gandhi, fondly referred to as the ‘Father of the Nation,’ played an instrumental role in India’s struggle for independence. He employed non-violent civil disobedience methods, setting a unique paradigm for freedom struggles worldwide.

Non-Violent Approach

Gandhi’s primary weapon in the struggle was non-violence or ‘Ahimsa.’ His philosophy was grounded in the belief that moral superiority could not be achieved through violent means. This approach resonated with the masses and enabled widespread participation, thereby intensifying the struggle against the British Raj.

Mass Mobilization

Gandhi’s leadership was marked by his ability to mobilize the masses. His simple lifestyle and empathetic nature helped him connect with the common people. He initiated campaigns like the Non-Cooperation Movement, Civil Disobedience Movement, and Quit India Movement, which saw mass participation unprecedented in the history of the Indian freedom struggle.

Championing Swaraj

Gandhi’s concept of ‘Swaraj’ or self-rule was not just political independence but also economic and social self-reliance. He advocated for the boycott of British goods and promoted indigenous industries, enhancing India’s economic independence and providing a blueprint for post-colonial economic development.

Mahatma Gandhi’s role in India’s freedom struggle was transformative. His non-violent approach, ability to mobilize the masses, and vision for Swaraj were instrumental in shaping the course of India’s freedom struggle. His philosophies have left an indelible mark on India’s ethos and continue to inspire movements for civil rights and freedom across the globe.

500 Words Essay on Role of Mahatma Gandhi in Freedom Struggle

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, famously known as Mahatma Gandhi, played a pivotal role in the Indian freedom struggle against British rule. His unique approach of ‘Satyagraha’ (insistence on truth) and ‘Ahimsa’ (non-violence) left an indelible mark on the world and significantly contributed to India’s independence.

Advent of Satyagraha

Gandhi’s principle of Satyagraha was a revolutionary method in the fight for freedom. It was a non-violent resistance against the oppressor, where the oppressed demonstrated their moral superiority. The first significant application of Satyagraha was in South Africa, where Gandhi led the Indian community against racial discrimination. This laid the foundation for his future endeavors in India.

Non-Cooperation Movement

Returning to India in 1915, Gandhi transformed the Indian National Congress from an elitist party into a mass movement. The Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922) was the first large-scale initiative against British rule under his leadership. Gandhi called for a complete boycott of British goods and services, which included schools, courts, and government services. The movement stirred the nation, uniting Indians across regions, religions, and classes. Despite its abrupt end due to the Chauri Chaura incident, the movement marked the beginning of a nationwide struggle for freedom.

Civil Disobedience Movement

The Civil Disobedience Movement, initiated with the Dandi March in 1930, was another milestone in India’s struggle for freedom. Gandhi and his followers marched about 240 miles from Sabarmati Ashram to the coastal village of Dandi, where they made salt, defying the British salt laws. This act was a symbolic defiance of the British monopoly and a peaceful protest against their oppressive regime.

Quit India Movement

In 1942, Gandhi launched the Quit India Movement, demanding an end to British rule in India. His call for ‘Do or Die’ resonated with the masses, leading to widespread protests across the country. The movement was a significant blow to the British, shaking the foundations of their rule in India.

Gandhi’s Philosophy and Its Impact

Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violence and truth was not merely a strategy for the freedom struggle, but a way of life. His principles of simplicity, self-reliance, and communal harmony continue to inspire millions around the world. His innovative methods of civil resistance have influenced numerous freedom struggles globally, including the civil rights movement in the U.S. led by Martin Luther King Jr.

Mahatma Gandhi’s role in the Indian freedom struggle was monumental. His non-violent resistance against British rule united the diverse Indian population and instilled in them a sense of national pride. His principles and methods, though criticized by some, proved to be effective in achieving India’s independence. Gandhi’s legacy continues to influence and inspire movements for civil rights and social change worldwide, making him a global icon for peace and justice.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

  • Essay on My Favourite Leader Mahatma Gandhi
  • Essay on My Favourite Leader Jawaharlal Nehru
  • Essay on My Favourite Freedom Fighter

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

Happy studying!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

  • Home (current)
  • Intellectual Property Law
  • Constitutional Developments
  • Protests and Riots
  • Recent Updates
  • Criminal Law
  • Finology Legal

Role of Mahatma Gandhi in Indian freedom struggle

essay on role of gandhi in freedom struggle

“Be the change that you wish to see in the world.”

Not only said but proved by the person who quoted this. He was one of the 20th century's best-known political and spiritual personalities. Because he was from a small town, he was aware of the hardships people were going through at the time. He developed his beliefs about human unity. He became the people's voice and aided in developing the country's independence. He was a person who made significant contributions to the nation's expansion and prosperity. He’s none other than Mahatma Gandhi.

"Let's learn a bit more about him & discuss this great personality's journey as a lawyer & a freedom fighter, along with his role in the Indian independence struggle." 

Who was Mahatma Gandhi?

Mahatma Gandhi (Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi) was born on 2nd October 1869 in the princely state of Porbandar, in modern-day Gujarat. He pursued Law as his profession and went to London at 18. After completing his graduation, he returned to India and made non-violent protests and movements for the growth and development of the country. Gandhi is considered one of the most important leaders of the nation. His father was a government official. 

Mahatma Gandhi and Law

Gandhi was a lawyer for almost 25 years before he became a disciple of nonviolent revolution. While leading the Indian independence movement, Gandhi worked as a journalist and edited  Young India, Navajivan  and the  Harijan.  In South Africa, Gandhi led a civil disobedience movement to combat racist laws on various occasions. However, “Gandhi eventually lost faith in the traditional legal system – courts, judges, lawyers, litigation – but he never lost faith in the law,” DiSalvo said in his study of Gandhi’s law career.

Wish to ace competitive exams? Then you must know the importance of current affairs in all exams. So, don't miss to check this course on Current Affairs.

essay on role of gandhi in freedom struggle

  • Before leading the Indian independence struggle, Gandhi used to live in South Africa to fight against injustice and class division. Within ten years, Gandhi propagated the philosophy of Satyagraha there and motivated the country towards a no-class or ethnic discrimination society. Gandhi arrived in Durban aboard SS Safari in 1893.
  • Gandhi became the South African Indian community leader in no time. His involvement in the non-violent movement in South Africa had been a major driving force in the Indian freedom struggle; he is looked up to as a leader there. 
  • From 1893 to 1914, Gandhi worked as an attorney and a public worker. Gandhi stated, "he was born in India but was made in South Africa."
  • In 1901, Gandhiji returned to India from South Africa and started practising in Mufassil Courts. He won several cases in Mufassil Courts, and his confidence was uplifted.
  • His friends and well-wishers advised him to settle in Bombay only and practice at the High Court. He got several cases to work on and won most of them.
  • Continuing his path, he got even better. But his fate had something else in store for him as he was again called to South Africa to lead an agitation there.

Gandhi remained a bitter critic of Indian courts and lawyers in his writings and public speeches. He had a belief that the Indian justice system rewarded the wealthy and worsened the miseries of the poor. Still, he advised lawyers to place “truth and service” above the perks of the profession. He advised lawyers to write their petitions in simple language. Gandhi never let his profession stand in the way of his public service and kept aside from charging high fees from the clients, which he did earlier. He ensured that he never departed from honesty and stated that “a lawyer always must place before the judges, and to help them to arrive at, the truth, never to prove the guilty as innocent.”

Contribution of Mahatma Gandhi in Indian freedom struggle

Many of us are aware of the movements of Mahatma Gandhi. Let's take a look at it

World War I  - At a conference on war, Gandhi was called to Delhi by Lord Chelmsford, then-viceroy of India. Gandhi consented to unite the people to enlist in the military for World War I to win the faith of the empire. However, he promised in a letter to the Viceroy that he "personally will neither kill nor damage anybody, friend or foe."

Champaran - Gandhi's first direct involvement in Indian freedom politics was the Champaran agitation in Bihar. Farmers in Champaran were compelled to cultivate indigo and threatened with torture if they objected.

Farmers turned to Gandhi for assistance, and through a well-planned nonviolent protest, Gandhi persuaded the authorities to grant them concessions.

Kheda  - The local farmers in Gujarat's Kheda village requested the authorities to cancel the taxes when the area was severely affected by floods. Gandhi then launched a signature-gathering drive-in in which peasants vowed to forgo paying taxes.

A social boycott of the mamlatdars and talatdars (revenue officials) was also initiated by him. The government loosened the terms for paying revenue tax in 1918 until the famine was over.

Khilafat movement  - Gandhi had a tremendous impact on the Muslim population. His participation in the Khilafat Movement served as evidence of this. Following the First World War, Muslims feared for their Caliph's safety or religious leader's safety, and a global uprising was planned to combat the Caliph's deteriorating position. Gandhi later became a well-known representative of the All India Muslim Conference. He gave up the medals he had acquired from the Empire while serving in South Africa with the Indian Ambulance Corps. He became a national leader quickly thanks to his involvement in the Khilafat. 

Non-cooperation movement - Gandhi understood that the Indians' cooperation was the sole reason the British were allowed to remain in India. He urged a movement of non-cooperation in light of this.

His unwavering spirit and the support of Congress helped him persuade people that peaceful non-cooperation was essential for achieving independence. The non-cooperation movement began on the foreboding day of the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre. Swaraj, or self-governance, was Gandhi's stated objective and has since evolved into the guiding principle of the Indian freedom struggle.

Salt March - Gandhi's Salt March, also known as the Dandi Movement, is regarded as a crucial event in the history of the freedom struggle. Gandhi warned the British to grant India dominion status at the Calcutta Congress in 1928, or else the nation would erupt in a revolution for total independence. This was ignored by the British.

As a result, the Indian flag was raised in Lahore on December 31, 1929, and the following January 26 was designated as Indian Independence Day. In March 1930, Gandhi then launched a Satyagraha campaign to protest the salt charge. He marched 388 kilometres from Ahmedabad to Dandi in Gujarat to manufacture salt. One of the largest marches in Indian history was made possible by the thousands of people who joined him.

Quit India Movement - Gandhi was committed to dealing the British Empire a decisive blow that would ensure their expulsion from India during the Second World War . When the British began enlisting Indians in the war, this occurred.

Gandhi vehemently objected, claiming that since India is not a free nation, Indians cannot participate in a war in support of democracy. The colonizers were driven out of this nation within a half-decade after this argument revealed their duplicitous nature. This was Mahatma Gandhi's freedom struggle.

Interesting facts about Mahatma Gandhi

Gandhi called for Non-violent resistance to British rule. 

He studied Law in London.

He lived in South Africa for 21 years.

He supported the British Empire in South Africa.

He led the Salt March in 1930 to demonstrate the power of Indian non-violence, and in 1942, he launched the Quit India Movement during the freedom struggle.

He was assassinated by a Hindu Nationalist. 

Gandhi Memorial Museum was founded in 1959. It is situated in the Tamil Nadu city of Madurai. It also goes by the name Gandhi Museum. It consists of the blood-stained clothing that Mahatma Gandhi wore when he was killed by Nathuram Godse .

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi was not born with the title Mahatma. According to some authors, he was given the title to him by the Nobel Prize-winning Bengali poet Rabindranath Tagore .

His birthday (2nd October) is commemorated worldwide as the International Day of Nonviolence.

“Gandhi in 1982” is an epic historical drama film based on Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi won the Academic Award for Best Motion Picture. 

The portrait of Mahatma Gandhi used on banknotes is not a caricature. It has been traced from an original picture that was clicked outside the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Why do we celebrate his birthday?

He was known as the "Father of the Nation" and led the revolt against British rule in India and many other national figures. Many civil rights movements throughout the world were influenced by his nonviolent approach. 2nd October is observed as a national holiday each year to honour his contributions to the country. The UN also observes the day as the International Day of Non-Violence.

Gandhi’s Portrait on Banknotes

Being the "father of the nation," Mahatma Gandhi was featured on the currency notes since it would be difficult to please everyone and keep them unified, with each region having its own notable liberation warrior and each religion having a sacred name.

 Conclusion

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, also known as Mahatma Gandhi or the Great Soul, is one of the most instantly recognizable historical figures of the 20th century. Gandhi's birth anniversary and the beginning of a lifetime of adversity in the struggle for Indian freedom from British colonial authority fell on October 2. Everywhere across the world, but especially in India, people celebrate this occasion. Mahatma Gandhi had great importance globally.

essay on role of gandhi in freedom struggle

A legal content writer who pursued BBA-LL.B.(H) from Amity University Chhattisgarh. She has a keen interest in corporate and IPR sectors. 

Liked What You Just Read? Share this Post:

Wanna share your views on this comment here:.

All Law Exam Preparation Courses

Related to this

Indian Air Force Ranks and Insignia

Indian Air Force Ranks and Insignia

Alcohol Ban: Dry States in India

Alcohol Ban: Dry States in India

Top 10 Landmark Supreme Court Judgments of 2022

Top 10 Landmark Supreme Court Judgments of 2022

Is beef banned in India?

Is beef banned in India?

List of 10 Freedom Fighters of India

List of 10 Freedom Fighters of India

Under legal.

Judgement on Electoral Bonds Scheme 2024

Judgement on Electoral Bonds Scheme 2024

Gyanvapi Mosque Case Explained

Gyanvapi Mosque Case Explained

Understanding the Farmers

Understanding the Farmers' Protest 2024 

How is the Age of a Juvenile Accused Determined in India?

How is the Age of a Juvenile Accused Determined in India?

Supreme Court’s Top 10 Judgements of 2023

Supreme Court’s Top 10 Judgements of 2023

Finology legal on facebook, finology legal on twitter.

Copyright © 2024 Finology Ventures Pvt. Ltd. | All Rights Reserved

Popular Tags

Popular authors.

essay on role of gandhi in freedom struggle

Popular Posts

essay on role of gandhi in freedom struggle

  • 90% Refund @Courses
  • School guide
  • Social Science Notes
  • History Notes
  • Geography Notes
  • Political Science Notes
  • Economics Notes
  • Science and Technology Notes
  • Social Science Solutions
  • English Grammar
  • Science Solution
  • Biology Solutions
  • Mathematics Solutions
  • R.D.Sharma Solutions

Related Articles

  • DSA to Development
  • Satavahana Dynasty - Introduction, History, Rulers, FAQs
  • Wood’s Despatch 1854
  • Write a short note on Khilafat Movement
  • Discuss why Nazism became popular in Germany by 1930
  • Battle of Khanwa (1527)
  • Contribution of Swami Dayanand Saraswati to Indian Society
  • Discuss the developments of the 1937-47 period, that led to the creation of Pakistan
  • Describe the changes that occurred in the composition of Company's Army
  • Development in India After Independence
  • Significance of Carnatic Wars
  • Significance of Quit India Movement
  • Mention contributions of Jyotiba Phule in National Movement
  • Education as a Civilizing Mission
  • Emergence of New Dynasties
  • Do you think Indian princes were short-sighted in their approach to events of 1757?
  • What was the Role of Mahatma Gandhi in Champaran Movement?
  • Diwani Rights
  • Bahmani Kingdom
  • Bhagat Singh and Role in Indian Nationalism

Role of Mahatma Gandhi in Freedom Struggle

Role of Mahatma Gandhi in Freedom Struggle: The role of Mahatma Gandhi in the freedom struggle helped to shape Independence in India. The movements of Satyagraha and non-violent movements which were led by Mahatma Gandhi against British rule, played a very important role. He demanded a greater voice for Indians and also moved forward his satyagraha movement to start other important movements like Champaran, Bihar and later spread out throughout the country. Mahatma Gandhi jas led different movements for women’s empowerment, reduction of poverty, and untouchability, and for Swaraj.

In this article, we will learn about the role of Mahatma Gandhi in the freedom struggle, Champaran Satyagraha, Kheda Satyagraha, Ahmedabad mill strike, Non- cooperation movement, and civil disobedience movement in detail.

Table of Content

Role of Mahatma Gandhi in the Freedom Struggle

Activities taken up by mahatma gandhi in the freedom struggle, champaran satyagraha (1917), kheda satyagraha (1918), ahmedabad mill strike, the satyagraha movement (1917-1918), khilafat movement (1919-1924), the non-cooperation movement (1920), civil disobedience movement (1930), the quit india movement.

Mahatma Gandhi and Freedom Struggle

Mahatma Gandhi and Freedom Struggle

The role of Mahatma Gandhi in the freedom struggle helped shape India’s independence. In his early days, Gandhi led three Satyagraha movements: the Champaran Satyagraha in 1917, the Kheda Satyagraha in 1918, and the Ahmedabad Mill Strike in 1918. All of Mahatma Gandhi’s movements and dates are listed below.

Many of us are aware of Mahatma Gandhi’s movements. Let us investigate most of them:

In the Champaran stage regarding Bihar, the regimen of Indigo cultivators became hopeless underneath the Tinkathiya framework. Under its framework, the cultivators had according to improve Indigo over the superior 3/twentieth part concerning their creed then had in imitation of selling them at a much less expensive cost. The conditions because the ranchers turned outdoors after keep extra regrettable because concerning beastly weather patterns yet the obligation of cumbersome assessments. Then, Rajkumar Shukla met Mahatma Gandhi in Lucknow then welcomed him. At Champaran, Mahatma Gandhi took on the methodology of the common noncompliance development or dispatched afield indicates or strikes in opposition to the landowners. Therefore, the supremacy of the common employ upon a Champaran agronomic advisory group on who Gandhi Ji used to be likewise one of the individuals. Some of the requests about the cultivators have been stated yet the Satyagraha used to be effective.

Read More: Champaran Satyagraha (1917)

Gujarat had faced droughts that resulted in crop failure in the early 20th century. Mohan Lal Pandey came to lead the no-tax campaign in the year 1917 and demanded remission from taxes paid by poor peasants even during bad harvests. The Campaign came to be joined by Gandhiji and ignited for him to start Satyagraha. Some of the great leaders like Indulal Yagnik and also Vallabbhai Patel had joined the Kheda Satyagraha.

In 1918, Hunger strikes and satyagraha were used by Gandhiji against the industrial owners and the region came to experience heavy monsoons which led to crop failure and also a plague. During the famines and plague, bonuses came to be provided to the workers, and stopped after the epidemic. This has resulted in the workers turning against them and demanding dearness allowances of 50 %. Gandhi organized a hunger strike for the same and during the Ahmedabad Mill strike, owners came to be granted a 35% wage hike.

One of his extensive accomplishments over the yr. 1918 was the Champaran and Kheda disturbances which are moreover referred to as an improvement against British religious managers. The ranchers yet decrease type had in imitation of boost yet boost Indigo or had been too after control according to to promote to them at fixed costs. At long last, these ranchers promised according to Mahatma Gandhi delivered regarding cool dissent. Wherein Gandhiji received the fight. Kheda, between the yr 1918 was hit with the aid of floods and ranchers needed help besides charge. Involving non-participation namely his primary instrument Gandhiji was concerned with railing against the ranchers for the non-existence of assessments.

Read More: The Idea of Satyagraha

Khilafat development was once begun through the Ali siblings in imitation of the show the disagreement against unfair completed together with Turkey afterward the stellar World War. Gandhiji among the year 1919 raised toward Muslims, that found the area regarding Congress used to be entirely delicate and then temperamental. Khilafat Movement is in relation to the standard grudge in opposition to the scenario along Caliph by using Muslims. Under the path of Mahatma Gandhi, the improvement was once dispatched far away in opposition to the British regime after re-establishing the error reputation of the Caliph in Turkey. All India Conference has departed from Delhi the place Mahatma Gandhi was once selected as a president. He ekes lower back the equipment received beyond the British Empire between South Africa. The consequence of the Khilafat development taken him the people chief. At length last, Mahatma Gandhi had an All India Muslim Conference and grew to become between the imperative unaccompanied for the occasion. This development upheld Muslims normally then the consequence of its development committed him to the commons chump then labored including main areas of power because of him between the Congress party. Khilafat improvement imploded significantly within 1922 yet via their excursion, Gandhiji battled against communalism, on the other hand, the gap between Hindus and Muslims broadened.

Read More: Khilafat Movement

The Non-Cooperation improvement used be dispatched afield into 1920 via Mahatma Gandhi in mild over the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre. Mahatma Gandhi believed it would be on the increase yet the Britishers would participate in their arrangement above the Indians. With the help of Congress, Gandhi Ji persuaded people in imitation of starting the non-collaboration development in a quiet manner, which is the fundamental thing to reaching freedom. He outlined the concept of Swaraj yet that turned into an essential thing in the Indian possibility battle. The improvement is beautiful on velocity or humans commenced boycotting the objects then foundations over the British government, similar according to schools, universities, then rule workplaces. Be up to expectation as much that may, because, on the Chauri Chaura occurrence, Mahatma Gandhi completed the development. In that episode, 23 policemen and authorities were killed.

Read More: Non-Cooperation Movement

The advance on the Gandhi-drove trends used to be the Non-Cooperation Movement, tolerant from September 1920 till February 1922. Gandhi, at some point in this development, was a favorite so the British were just fantastic in maintaining on including control in light of the fact that the Indians have been helpful. In the match that the occupants of a state quit helping oversee the British, the depressed Britishers would be compelled to surrender. The improvement obtained notoriety, or quickly significant many people had been boycotting British-run then accommodating foundations. This implied that people observed employment elsewhere eliminated their children besides schools, then stayed away from government workplaces. The renowned Mahatma Gandhi became nicely known.

Mahatma Gandhi in March 1930 tended to the united states of America in a paper, Young India, or communicated his ability to droop improvement regarding the aloof hazard to that amount his eleven requests were referred to by means of the masses authority. In someone’s case, the mass’s dominion around since was about Lord Irwin, yet she did not answer again in accordance with him. Accordingly, Mahatma Gandhi commenced the development along with the whole power. He commenced the improvement with the Dandi March, out of March 12 in accordance with April 6, 1930. Mahatma Gandhi, alongside his devotees, walked beside Sabarmati Ashram according to Dandi among Navsari District, Ahmedabad on the sea coast, and violated the powder dictation by making salt on April 6, 1930.

Under its development, understudies left college or rule workers left their workplaces. Blacklist concerning unfamiliar garments; common ingesting on rummy garments; non-installment of regimen charges; ladies organizing Dharna at the commons dominion booze shop; or and on. In 1930, Lord Irwin’s Government required a Round Table Conference in London, then the Indian National Conference would not partake in it. Along these lines, after securing so Congress takes piece within gatherings, he marked a settlement with Mahatma Gandhi in 1931. It was once recognized as the Gandhi-Irwin Pact. It centers around the appearance of each and every political detainee or the wiping out of extreme regulations.

Read More: What were the impacts of the Civil Disobedience Movement?

Mahatma Gandhi dispatched far away from the Quit India improvement on August 8, 1942, throughout the Second World War in conformity with pressure British government oversea regarding India. In the development, Mahatma Gandhi received a “Sink then swim” discourse. Therefore, the entire appointment on the Indian National Congress was once captured by way of British authorities or detained except for preliminary. However, the dissent went over the united states over. Toward the finish of World War II, the British rule terminated they would surrender the powers in imitation of India. Mahatma Gandhi canceled the development, which added to respecting the appearance of hundreds of detainees.

Thusly, these are the widespread traits pushed with the aid of Mahatma Gandhi who assisted India by engaging in the distinction between the British administration and frontier rule.

Read More : Quit India Movement

Related Links

Why did Mahatma Gandhi Think that English Education had Enslaved Indians? What were the ideologies of Mahatma Gandhi? What was the role of Mahatma Gandhi in the Champaran Movement? Constructive Programmes of Mahatma Gandhi  Why did Mahatma Gandhi Want to Teach Children Handicrafts? Relevance of Gandhian Principles in the 21st Century Significance of Quit India Movement Champaran Satyagraha Kheda Satyagraha Khilafat Movement Non-Cooperation Movement Dandi March Civil-Disobedience Movement Gandhi Irwin Pact Quit India Movement

Gandhi vehemently objected, claiming that because India is not a free nation, Indians cannot fight for democracy. The colonizers were driven out of this country within a half-decade after this argument exposed their deception. This was the role of Mahatma Gandhi in the freedom struggle.

FAQs on Role of Mahatma Gandhi in the Freedom Struggle

1. what was the role of mahatma gandhi in the freedom struggle.

Mahatma Gandhi has led satyagrahas and mass movements and led to different movements like Champaran Satyagraha in 1917, Kheda Satyagraha in 1918, Ahmedabad Mill Strike in 1918 and so forth.

2. What marked the emergence of Gandhi in the Indian freedom struggle?

Gandhiji emerged as a prominent Indian Freedom fighter in the year 1917 after he started the Satyagraha movement.

3. Which was the first satyagraha by Mahatma Gandhi?

The first satyagraha of Gandhiji was the Champaran satyagraha in the year 1917, which was to fight against the exploitative system where the peasants had to pay heavy taxes in Champaran.

4. What are the 3 satyagraha movements?

The 3 satyagraha movement includes Ahmedabad Mill Strike Kheda Satyagraha Champaran Satyagraha

Whether you're preparing for your first job interview or aiming to upskill in this ever-evolving tech landscape, GeeksforGeeks Courses are your key to success. We provide top-quality content at affordable prices, all geared towards accelerating your growth in a time-bound manner. Join the millions we've already empowered, and we're here to do the same for you. Don't miss out - check it out now !

Please Login to comment...

  • School History
  • School Learning
  • Social Science
  • surinderdawra388
  • ananyasaikiaintern
  • akankshaarora2122
  • mitalibhola94
  • pradeepkumar2xpw
  • apoorvagqbu5
  • avichalbharti

Improve your Coding Skills with Practice

 alt=

What kind of Experience do you want to share?

  • India Today
  • Business Today
  • Reader’s Digest
  • Harper's Bazaar
  • Brides Today
  • Cosmopolitan
  • Aaj Tak Campus
  • India Today Hindi

essay on role of gandhi in freedom struggle

How Gandhi shaped our Independence: 7 major freedom movements initiated by Mahatma Gandhi

Seven major freedom movements started by mahatma gandhi..

Listen to Story

Gandhi's contribution to India's Independence

Mahatma Gandhi was the leader who guided India towards Independence. India was under the British rule for over 250 years. Gandhi returned to India from South Africa in 1915 at the request of Gopal Krishna Gokhale.

Gandhi's contribution to the Indian freedom movement cannot be measured in words. He, along with other freedom fighters, compelled the British to leave India. His policies and agendas were non-violent and his words were the source of inspiration for millions.

1. World War I

2. champaran.

The Champaran agitation in Bihar was Gandhi's first active involvement into Indian freedom politics. The Champaran farmers were being forced to grow Indigo and were being tortured if they protested.

When Kheda, a village in Gujarat, was badly hit by floods, the local farmers appealed to the rulers to waive off the taxes. Here, Gandhi started a signature campaign where peasants pledged non-payment of taxes.

4. Khilafat Movement

Gandhi's influence on the Muslim population was remarkable. This was evident in his involvement in the Khilafat Movement. After the first World War, the Muslims feared for the safety of their Caliph or religious leader and a worldwide protest was being organised to fight against the collapsing status of the Caliph.

5. Non-cooperation Movement

Gandhi had realised that the British had been able to be in India only because of the co-operation they received from the Indians. Keeping this in mind, he called for a non-cooperation movement.

6. Salt March

Also known as the Dandi Movement, Gandhi's Salt March is considered to be a pivotal incident in the history of freedom struggle. At the Calcutta Congress of 1928, Gandhi declared that the British must grant India dominion status or the country will erupt into a revolution for complete independence. The British did not pay heed to this.

7. Quit India Movement

During the Second World War, Gandhi was determined to strike the British Empire with a definitive blow that would secure their exit from India. This happened when the British started recruiting Indians for the war.

Gandhi protested strongly and said that the Indians cannot be involved in a war that is in favour of democratic purposes when India itself is not a free country. This argument exposed the two-faced image of the colonisers and within half a decade, they were out of this country.

Interested in General Knowledge and Current Affairs? Click here to stay informed and know what is happening around the world with our G.K. and Current Affairs section.

  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to secondary menu
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

Study Today

Largest Compilation of Structured Essays and Exams

Role of Mahatma Gandhi in India Struggle for Freedom

December 9, 2017 by Study Mentor 1 Comment

Table of Contents

About Mahatma Gandhi

Mahatma Gandhi’s full name was Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi . He was born in a place known as Porbandar which was situated in Gujarat on the 2 nd of October, 1869. His parents were Karamchand Gandhi and Putli Bai. Gandhi is also known by his other name which was Bapu.

After his marriage he went to South Africa. He stayed there for twenty years and worked as a barrister. The first conflict he had was about apartheid. One day he was travelling in a train. He had a ticket but still he was thrown out of the compartment.

This behaviour which was done with him made him to take a firm decision that he would try his level best to remove the existence of apartheid in the world. Then when he returned to India after this, he found that the British started ruing the country and all the citizens were being treated badly by them.

Gandhi had different ideas and techniques from others. Even though he put them into reality slowly, all of them had a great impact on the society. He had faith and belief in all the religions. He read and listened to the readings and scriptures of all the religions with the same belief and faith. He was always truthful and honest.

This honest and truthfulness helped him during his entire life. He is considered as one of the greatest man in the history of our country. His hard work and the way he fought in the struggle for freedom of our country is commendable and must be appreciated.

Not only this, he sacrificed his life for the country. People respected and appreciated him for his simple lifestyle. He played an important role in India’s struggle for freedom. He believed in non-violence and use of peaceful methods to fight for independence. He organized many movements which showed his role in the country’s struggle for freedom.

World War I

During World War I Gandhi was invited by Lord Chelmsford, who was the Viceroy of India that time, at a War Conference in Delhi. He wanted to get the empire’s trust. So, he support the Viceroy that he moved people to join the army for World War.

But on the other side Gandhi also wrote a letter to the Viceroy which stated that he would not kill or injure anyone personally, no matter the person would be his friend or enemy.

Champaran Movement

The agitation of Champaran took place in Bihar. This was infact Gandhi’s first active participation for the struggle of India’s freedom. In Champaran, the farmers were forced cultivate indigo. If they protested they were badly tortured. So, the farmers took the help of Gandhi. They organized a non-violent protest and Gandhi was able to get concessions from the authority.

Non-Cooperation Movement

Gandhi started this movement in the year 1920 so that the British would go away from India. The movement was peaceful and no violent methods were used against the violence of the British Government. The movement was meant for the refusal of the laws and regulations which were passed by the Government.

There were many reasons which led to the starting of this movement. First, the British Government had taken all of the country’s wealth and power for their own purpose. So, the citizens thought that the government would give them autonomy for the service they were providing them.

But this was not at all true. In order to remove this disillusionment, Gandhi started this movement. The citizens were not happy to see that the government was using repressive measures. Due to World War I there was economic distress in the country. The price of the goods began to decrease.

Due to the war, the peasants and workers had to suffer a lot as they were not getting any sort of benefit. Gandhi became firm in his decision for this movement because of the Rowlatt Act and the massacre which took place in Jallianwala Bagh .

The members of the Khilafat movement made Gandhi as their leader because they agreed to whatever the non-cooperation movement suggested. Non-Cooperation Movement became a mass movement. It positively affected the immediate goods.

This movement and the congress party became more famous among the citizens.  The movement helped to maintain communal harmony as even the Muslims participated in the movement. People became aware of their rights through this movement. They lost trust on the administration of the British.

Kheda is a place in Gujarat. The peasants who stayed in Kheda had to face a lot of problems due to poverty, famine, alcoholism, untouchability and discrimination by the British. Due to the famines and other natural calamities, agriculture was badly affected which further led to death of people because of starvation.

Many people died in Kheda due to plague. Very soon even cholera broke out in Kheda. Due to all these reasons revolt started in Kheda. The main reason for this revolt was the increase in tax. People were not ready to pay the tax. So, the government took a decision that if they did not pay the taxes, their property would be seized.

The leader of this revolt was Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. But it was Gandhi and Gujarat Sabha that organized this revolt and Gandhi was their spiritual leader. The peasants of Kheda were joined by other Gujaratis from Vadodra and Ahmedabad so that this revolt was purely a Gujarati struggle.

The agents of the government seized the property of the peasants as the taxes were not paid. They peasants did not do anything when this happened. Instead, they gave all their money and valuable things to the Gujarat Sabha.

Even though they protested, they were united and disciplined. Finally, the Government made an agreement for both the sides. All the property that was seized was given back and even the tax for the present year and the coming year was removed.

Khilafat Movement

The Muslim population was greatly influenced by Gandhi. This could be seen as he was greatly involved in the Khilafat Movement . When the First World War was over, the Muslims were worried about their religious leaders of the Caliphs.

They were tensed about their safety as people were protesting all over the world against the Caliph as they were collapsing. He became a spokesperson for the Muslims and helped them. Thus because he played an important role in the Khilafat movement he soon became the national leader.

Salt or Dandi March

This march was a very important one in the history of India’s freedom struggle. This march was a new Satyagraha . This was against the tax which was put on salt. This Satyagraha was launched in the year 1930 on the 12 th of March.

The Dandi March started from Ahmedabad to Dandi and Gandhi with his followers walked all the way. This march was to break the law as the tax took the right of the poor to make their own salt. The salt law was broken when Gandhi reached at the sea beach in Dandi.

Quit India Movement

This meant Bharat Chhodo Andolan which was initiated by Gandhi. This took place after the Second World War. Soon Gandhi was arrested. After his arrest many violent demonstrations took place everywhere in the country. This movement became an important one in the struggle for freedom.

Many freedom fighters were injured and killed or arrested. The movement had to be restrained even though it achieved success. After this movement, the British Government showed signs that they were transferring the power back to the Indians. It was then the fight was called off by Gandhi and then all the prisoners were released

Partition and Independence of the country

In the year 1946, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel persuaded Gandhi for the partition of India and the independence the British cabinet had offered. Gandhi accepted this proposal.

After India got independence, Gandhi started to focus more on peace and communal harmony. He did not support communal violence. So, he went on for fasting so that it was abolished. He also demanded that Pakistan was compensated by the Partition Council.

Importance of Gandhi for the struggle

Even though some of the movements did not earn the success and was a complete failure. But all these movements made the British government realize that their rule in our country was unjust and not right. They also realized anytime the masses of the country would follow Gandhi and would be against the British Government.

Reader Interactions

' src=

October 2, 2021 at 8:57 am

Very nice information about gandhi ji thank you so much

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Top Trending Essays in March 2021

  • Essay on Pollution
  • Essay on my School
  • Summer Season
  • My favourite teacher
  • World heritage day quotes
  • my family speech
  • importance of trees essay
  • autobiography of a pen
  • honesty is the best policy essay
  • essay on building a great india
  • my favourite book essay
  • essay on caa
  • my favourite player
  • autobiography of a river
  • farewell speech for class 10 by class 9
  • essay my favourite teacher 200 words
  • internet influence on kids essay
  • my favourite cartoon character

Brilliantly

Content & links.

Verified by Sur.ly

Essay for Students

  • Essay for Class 1 to 5 Students

Scholarships for Students

  • Class 1 Students Scholarship
  • Class 2 Students Scholarship
  • Class 3 Students Scholarship
  • Class 4 Students Scholarship
  • Class 5 students Scholarship
  • Class 6 Students Scholarship
  • Class 7 students Scholarship
  • Class 8 Students Scholarship
  • Class 9 Students Scholarship
  • Class 10 Students Scholarship
  • Class 11 Students Scholarship
  • Class 12 Students Scholarship

STAY CONNECTED

  • About Study Today
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms & Conditions

Scholarships

  • Apj Abdul Kalam Scholarship
  • Ashirwad Scholarship
  • Bihar Scholarship
  • Canara Bank Scholarship
  • Colgate Scholarship
  • Dr Ambedkar Scholarship
  • E District Scholarship
  • Epass Karnataka Scholarship
  • Fair And Lovely Scholarship
  • Floridas John Mckay Scholarship
  • Inspire Scholarship
  • Jio Scholarship
  • Karnataka Minority Scholarship
  • Lic Scholarship
  • Maulana Azad Scholarship
  • Medhavi Scholarship
  • Minority Scholarship
  • Moma Scholarship
  • Mp Scholarship
  • Muslim Minority Scholarship
  • Nsp Scholarship
  • Oasis Scholarship
  • Obc Scholarship
  • Odisha Scholarship
  • Pfms Scholarship
  • Post Matric Scholarship
  • Pre Matric Scholarship
  • Prerana Scholarship
  • Prime Minister Scholarship
  • Rajasthan Scholarship
  • Santoor Scholarship
  • Sitaram Jindal Scholarship
  • Ssp Scholarship
  • Swami Vivekananda Scholarship
  • Ts Epass Scholarship
  • Up Scholarship
  • Vidhyasaarathi Scholarship
  • Wbmdfc Scholarship
  • West Bengal Minority Scholarship
  • Click Here Now!!

Mobile Number

Have you Burn Crackers this Diwali ? Yes No

Essay on Mahatma Gandhi – Contributions and Legacy of Mahatma Gandhi

500+ words essay on mahatma gandhi.

Essay on Mahatma Gandhi – Mahatma Gandhi was a great patriotic Indian, if not the greatest. He was a man of an unbelievably great personality. He certainly does not need anyone like me praising him. Furthermore, his efforts for Indian independence are unparalleled. Most noteworthy, there would have been a significant delay in independence without him. Consequently, the British because of his pressure left India in 1947. In this essay on Mahatma Gandhi, we will see his contribution and legacy.

Essay on Mahatma Gandhi

Contributions of Mahatma Gandhi

First of all, Mahatma Gandhi was a notable public figure. His role in social and political reform was instrumental. Above all, he rid the society of these social evils. Hence, many oppressed people felt great relief because of his efforts. Gandhi became a famous international figure because of these efforts. Furthermore, he became the topic of discussion in many international media outlets.

Mahatma Gandhi made significant contributions to environmental sustainability. Most noteworthy, he said that each person should consume according to his needs. The main question that he raised was “How much should a person consume?”. Gandhi certainly put forward this question.

Furthermore, this model of sustainability by Gandhi holds huge relevance in current India. This is because currently, India has a very high population . There has been the promotion of renewable energy and small-scale irrigation systems. This was due to Gandhiji’s campaigns against excessive industrial development.

Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violence is probably his most important contribution. This philosophy of non-violence is known as Ahimsa. Most noteworthy, Gandhiji’s aim was to seek independence without violence. He decided to quit the Non-cooperation movement after the Chauri-Chaura incident . This was due to the violence at the Chauri Chaura incident. Consequently, many became upset at this decision. However, Gandhi was relentless in his philosophy of Ahimsa.

Secularism is yet another contribution of Gandhi. His belief was that no religion should have a monopoly on the truth. Mahatma Gandhi certainly encouraged friendship between different religions.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Legacy of Mahatma Gandhi

Mahatma Gandhi has influenced many international leaders around the world. His struggle certainly became an inspiration for leaders. Such leaders are Martin Luther King Jr., James Beve, and James Lawson. Furthermore, Gandhi influenced Nelson Mandela for his freedom struggle. Also, Lanza del Vasto came to India to live with Gandhi.

essay on role of gandhi in freedom struggle

The awards given to Mahatma Gandhi are too many to discuss. Probably only a few nations remain which have not awarded Mahatma Gandhi.

In conclusion, Mahatma Gandhi was one of the greatest political icons ever. Most noteworthy, Indians revere by describing him as the “father of the nation”. His name will certainly remain immortal for all generations.

Essay Topics on Famous Leaders

  • Mahatma Gandhi
  • APJ Abdul Kalam
  • Jawaharlal Nehru
  • Swami Vivekananda
  • Mother Teresa
  • Rabindranath Tagore
  • Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
  • Subhash Chandra Bose
  • Abraham Lincoln
  • Martin Luther King

FAQs on Mahatma Gandhi

Q.1 Why Mahatma Gandhi decided to stop Non-cooperation movement?

A.1 Mahatma Gandhi decided to stop the Non-cooperation movement. This was due to the infamous Chauri-Chaura incident. There was significant violence at this incident. Furthermore, Gandhiji was strictly against any kind of violence.

Q.2 Name any two leaders influenced by Mahatma Gandhi?

A.2 Two leaders influenced by Mahatma Gandhi are Martin Luther King Jr and Nelson Mandela.

Customize your course in 30 seconds

Which class are you in.

tutor

  • Travelling Essay
  • Picnic Essay
  • Our Country Essay
  • My Parents Essay
  • Essay on Favourite Personality
  • Essay on Memorable Day of My Life
  • Essay on Knowledge is Power
  • Essay on Gurpurab
  • Essay on My Favourite Season
  • Essay on Types of Sports

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Download the App

Google Play

General Studies

All Programmes

Study Material

Mahatma Gandhi's Movements during Freedom Struggle

Quest for upsc cse panels.

Mahatma Gandhi's Movements during Freedom Struggle-Image

Sub-Categories:

GS-I: Modern History

Prelims : History of India and Indian National Movement.

Mains : Modern Indian History from about the middle of the eighteenth century until the present- significant events, personalities, issues

Mahatma Gandhi Movements: Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi (Mahatma Gandhi) was born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, Gujarat. He earned a degree in law from England in 1891. Before entering Indian politics in 1915, he was in South Africa from 1893 to 1914. In the course of his struggle in South Africa, he developed his political philosophy based on non-violence and Satyagraha to give a new direction to the mass movement.

The emergence of Mahatma Gandhi in Indian politics marked the beginning of a new phase in the Indian national movement, the phase of mass movements. This made Gandhi become the most important figure in the history of the Indian freedom struggle.

Arrival of Gandhi in India

Gandhi returned to India in January 1915. His efforts were well known in South Africa, not just among the educated but also among the common people.

  • Gandhiji spent a year travelling around British India, getting to know the land and its people on the advice of Gopal Krishna Gokhale . In February 1916, he made his first major public appearance at the inauguration of the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) .
  • Gandhiji’s speech at Banaras revealed that Indian nationalism was an elite phenomenon, and he wished tomake Indian nationalism more properly representative of the Indian people as a whole.

Champaran Satyagraha (1917)

Champaran Satyagraha was the first attempt at mobilising the Indian masses by Gandhi on an invitation by Rajkumar Shukla in the context of indigo peasants of Champaran. This Gandhian Movement was the First Civil Disobedience in India.

  • It was mainly due to the tinkathia system of indigo farmers , where peasants were forced to grow indigo on 3/20 part of their total land. 
  • Gandhi intervened in the matter but was asked to leave the place by authorities. However, Gandhi refused to leave, thus disobeying the order. Eventually, Gandhi was able to convince the government about the illness of the tinkathia system and look into the matter. 
  • The government appointed a committee to go into the matter and nominated Gandhi as a member. As a result, the tinkathia system was abolished, and in a compromise settlement, only 25 % of the money taken by peasants was compensated.
  • Participants: Rajendra Prasad, Narhari Parekh, and J.B. Kripalani 

Ahmedabad Mill Strike (1918)

Following the Champaran Satyagraha, the next step in mobilising the masses was the workers of Ahmedabad's urban centre. Ahmedabad Mill Strike was the result of the disagreement between the textile workers and the mill owners arose in March 1918 regarding the end of the plague bonus. 

  • Mill owners paid bonuses of 75% of their salary to retain the workers during the outbreak of the plague in 1917. But, after the end of the plague, workers were demanding an increase of 50 % in wages while mill owners were advocating discontinuance of the bonus. As a result, a deadlock was created. 
  • Gandhi intervened at the request of Anusuya Sarabhai and undertook a fast unto death. As a result, owners agreed to the 35% wage hike.
  • This was the first movement where fasting , a means of self-suffering to create moral pressure, was used by Gandhi as a political weapon in India.

Kheda Satyagraha (1918)

Due to the failure of the monsoon, the peasants of the Kheda district were in distress. In 1918, they mobilised themselves, demanding revenue relief from the government due to the crop failure and rise in prices. Kheda Satyagraha was the First Non-Cooperation by Gandhi in the Indian National Movement.

  • According to the government's famine code, cultivators were entitled to total remission if crop yield fell below 25% of the average. But the authorities rejected it. As a result, peasants turned to Gandhi.
  • Gandhi intervened on behalf of the poor peasants, advising them to withhold payment and 'fight unto death against such a spirit of vindictiveness and tyranny.'
  • The government ordered it to be restrained in the collection of revenues (collected only from those ryots who could afford to pay) and not to confiscate lands. Gandhi decided to withdraw from the struggle.
  • Participants: Sardar Vallabhbhai Pate l , Narahari Parikh, and Indulal Yagnik.

Satyagraha Against the Rowlatt Act (1919)

In 1917, a sedition committee was formed under Justice Sidney Rowlatt to curb revolutionary activities and investigate the ‘seditious conspiracy’. It recommended the Rowlatt Act (Anarchic and Revolutionary Offenses Act of 1919) ought to limit the liberty of the people passed by the Imperial Legislative Council. Gandhi launched the Satyagraha against the Rowlatt Act . 

  • The Rowlatt Act allowed political and revolutionary activists to be tried without judicial proceedings or even imprisoned without trial for two years. It also suspended the right to habeas corpus and the right to appeal. 
  • Gandhiji called it the “Black Act '' and launched the satyagraha against the Act. It involved fasting, praying, disobeying laws, and risking arrest and imprisonment. The satyagraha brought Gandhi to the centre of the Indian national movement. 
  • Gandhi also organised Satyagraha Sabha, his own organisation, to carry out the movement. However, due to the violence in some parts of India, Gandhi had to call off the Satyagraha. 
  • Gandhi's ability to connect with the masses was demonstrated during this Satyagraha. Gandhian ideology and methods for the freedom struggle (Non-violence and Satyagraha) were introduced to the Indian masses. 

Non-Cooperation Movement (1921-22)

The horrific massacre at Jallianwala Bagh took place in the backdrop of protests against the Rowlatt Act. As a result, Mahatma Gandhi launched the Non-Cooperation Movement in 1920 . 

  • In September 1920, the Congress held a special session in Calcutta and resolved to accept Gandhi's proposal of non-cooperation with the British government until Khilafat and Punjab grievances were addressed and self-government was established.
  • This Gandhian movement was merged with the Khilafat movement, which demanded that the Turkish Sultan or Khalifa retain control over the Muslim sacred places in the erstwhile Ottoman empire. 
  • Methods: Non-cooperation movement included the boycott of schools, colleges, courts, government offices, legislatures, and foreign goods and the return of government-conferred titles and awards.
  • Withdrawal: Mahatma Gandhi withdrew the non-cooperation movement following the Chauri Chaura violent incident on 5 February 1922 , in which 23 police officers were killed. After the withdrawal, he focussed on the constructive programme of social reforms. 

Civil Disobedience Movement (1930-34)

After the Non-Cooperation Movement, the Civil Disobedience Movement (also known as Salt Satyagraha ) is regarded as the second major mass movement and a significant advancement in broadening the social reach of India's freedom struggle. 

  • Gandhi declared at the Calcutta Congress in 1928 that the British must grant India dominion status, or the country would erupt in a revolution for complete independence. The British paid no attention to this. As a result, INC in its Lahore session (1929) demanded ‘Punra Swaraj’ , and decided to celebrate 26th January as ‘ Independence Day’ . It also declared that a civil disobedience movement would be started under the leadership of Gandhi.
  • Gandhi announced the 'Dandi March' against the unjust tax on salt as part of the movement. On April 6 1930 , he violated the salt regulations, thereby launching the Civil Disobedience Movement.
  • Induced by Gandhi's extraordinary endeavours at Dandi, defiance of the salt laws spread throughout the country. However, it was halted for a period after the Gandhi-Irwin Pact. 
  • When the movement was resumed after the failure of the Second Round Table conference, it began to dwindle towards the end of 1932. It was officially withdrawn in May 1934 .

Quit India Movement (1942)

The Quit India Movement (August Kranti Movement) was the ‘third great wave’ of India’s struggle for freedom, launched on August 8, 1942 , under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi. This Gandhian Movement was more of a rejection of British rule than a traditional Satyagraha, and it influenced the unprecedented and tumultuous events that occurred in Indian history over the next five years.

  • It was the result of Indian disillusionment with British rule, with the immediate causes being the failure of the Cripps mission and the hardships caused by World War II . 
  • On August 8, 1942, the All India Congress Committee met at Gowalia Tank in Bombay and passed the famous Quit India Resolution. On the same day, Gandhi issued his 'Do or Die' call. It demanded an end to British rule in India with immediate effect, the formation of a provisional government after the war and the declaration of free India .
  • As a result, major leaders of the Indian National Congress were arrested and imprisoned without trial by British officials. However, the protests continued across the country with huge mass participation. 
  • Although it did not immediately achieve its goals, it contributed to the weakening of British rule and paved the way for the independence of India . 

PYQs on Gandhian Movements 

Q)  Many voices had strengthened and enriched the nationalist movement during the Gandhian phase. Elaborate (UPSC Mains 2019)

Q)  Throw light on the significance of the thoughts of Mahatma Gandhi in the present times. (UPSC Mains 2018)

Q)  With reference to the British colonial rule in India, consider the following statements: (UPSC Prelims 2019)

  • Mahatma Gandhi was instrumental in the abolition of the system of ‘indentured labour’.
  • In Lord Chelmsford’s ‘War Conference’, Mahatma Gandhi did not support the resolution on recruiting Indians for World War.
  • Consequent upon the breaking of the Salt Law by the Indian people, the Indian National Congress was declared illegal by the colonial rulers.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

a) 1 and 2 only

b) 1 and 3 only

c) 2 and 3 only

d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (b)

Q)  Which one of the following is a very significant aspect of the Champaran Satyagraha? (UPSC Prelims 2018)

a) Active all-India participation of lawyers, students and women in the National Movement.

b) Active involvement of Dalit and Tribal communities of India in the National Movement.

c) Joining of peasant unrest to India’s National Movement.

d) Drastic decrease in the cultivation of plantation crops and commercial crops

Answer: (c)

Question 5: Quit India Movement was launched in response to (UPSC Prelims 2013)

a) Cabinet Mission Plan

b) Cripps Proposals

c) Simon Commission Report

d) Wavell Plan

FAQs on Gandhian Movements

What are the 7 major movements of gandhiji.

The seven major movements of Mahatma Gandhi included the Champaran Movement, the Ahmedabad Mill Strike, the Kheda Movement, the Satyagraha against the Rowlatt Act, the Non-cooperation Movement, the Civil Disobedience Movement, and the Quit India Movement.

What was Gandhi's first movement in India?

The Champaran Satyagraha of 1917 was Gandhi's first Satyagraha movement in India and is regarded as a historically significant revolt in the Indian Independence Movement. During the British colonial period, a farmer's uprising occurred in the Champaran district of Bihar, India.

What are some of the challenges that Gandhian movements faced?

Gandhian movements faced challenges such as resistance from colonial authorities, lack of widespread support, internal divisions, and the difficulty of maintaining nonviolent discipline among participants. Additionally, economic and social realities often clashed with the idealistic principles of Gandhi's philosophy, making it challenging to achieve lasting change.

What was the impact of the Gandhian movements on the Indian independence struggle?

The Gandhian movements had a profound impact on the Indian independence struggle. Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy of nonviolent resistance (Satyagraha) and civil disobedience mobilised millions of Indians, uniting them in a peaceful but determined quest for freedom. His leadership inspired the Quit India Movement and other campaigns that eventually led to India gaining independence from British colonial rule in 1947, marking a historic achievement in the nation's history.

Where and when did Mahatma Gandhi make his first public appearance in India upon coming back from South Africa?

On February 4, 1916, in BHU, Gandhiji made his first public appearance since his return from South Africa. He spoke to the crowd in BHU, which was primarily made up of impressionable youngsters, princes, well-dressed individuals, etc.

© 2024 Vajiram & Ravi. All rights reserved

Gurumuda Networks

Mahatma Gandhi’s Struggle for Indian Independence

Title: Mahatma Gandhi’s Struggle for Indian Independence

Introduction: Mahatma Gandhi, a prominent figure and revered leader in the Indian independence movement, played a pivotal role in India’s freedom struggle against British colonial rule. Gandhi’s principles of non-violence, truth, and civil disobedience created a powerful platform for India’s pursuit of independence. This article dives into the inspiring journey of Mahatma Gandhi, highlighting his significant contributions during India’s struggle for freedom.

1. How did Mahatma Gandhi contribute to India’s independence movement? Mahatma Gandhi led numerous non-violent civil disobedience movements and inspired millions of Indians to unite against British rule.

2. What was the significance of Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violence? Gandhi firmly believed in ahimsa (non-violence) as a powerful means to achieve socio-political change, inspiring countless peaceful protests and movements across India.

3. What role did Gandhi play in the Salt March? Gandhi led the famous Salt March in 1930, walking 240 miles from Sabarmati Ashram to Dandi in protest against the British monopoly on salt production. This march significantly impacted the national movement by exposing British injustices and inspiring Indians to manufacture their own salt.

4. How did Gandhi’s leadership influence the Quit India movement? Gandhi’s call for “Do or Die” during the Quit India movement in 1942 inspired Indians to fight for complete independence from British rule, rejuvenating the national spirit.

5. What was the impact of the Civil Disobedience Movement led by Gandhi? The Civil Disobedience Movement, launched by Gandhi in 1930, encouraged Indians to refuse British laws and taxes, making the movement a significant challenge to British authority.

6. How did Gandhi mobilize the masses during the Non-Cooperation Movement? Gandhi urged Indians to boycott British goods and institutions, which severely affected the British economy and increased the strength of the independence struggle.

7. What role did Gandhi play in the Champaran and Kheda Satyagraha? Gandhi’s involvement in these movements highlighted the plight of indigo and cotton farmers, respectively, and demonstrated his dedication to securing justice for the oppressed.

8. How did Gandhi’s role change with the launch of the Swaraj Party? The formation of the Swaraj Party marked a shift in Gandhi’s approach, with him supporting political activism through elected representatives, which furthered the cause of independence.

9. What was the significance of Gandhi’s constructive program? Gandhi’s constructive program aimed to address social issues like untouchability, education, and self-reliance, integral to building a self-sufficient, independent India.

10. How did Gandhi’s assassination impact India’s journey to independence? Gandhi’s assassination in 1948 shocked the nation but galvanized the people to honor his legacy and continue the struggle for a united, independent India.

11. How did Gandhi’s teachings and ideologies affect other independence movements globally? Gandhi’s philosophies influenced and inspired figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela, who adopted non-violence as the basis for their respective struggles for racial equality.

12. How did the participation of women shape Gandhi’s movement? Gandhi emphasized the importance of women’s involvement and empowerment in the independence movement, encouraging their active participation in protests, boycotts, and freedom struggles.

13. How did Gandhi’s teachings on religious tolerance contribute to the Indian independence movement? Gandhi promoted religious harmony and unity, fostering peace and cooperation among diverse religious communities to fight for a common goal.

14. What was the significance of Gandhi’s Salt Satyagraha in 1930? The Salt Satyagraha was a turning point in India’s independence movement. It showcased the masses’ commitment to non-violence, civil disobedience, and their unwavering resolve to challenge British authority.

15. How did Gandhi’s participation in the Indian National Congress influence the freedom struggle? Gandhi’s association with the Indian National Congress enabled him to effectively organize and unite people, providing a national platform for India’s independence movement.

16. What challenges did Gandhi face during his struggle for Indian independence? Gandhi faced substantial opposition from both British authorities and some sections of the Indian society who disagreed with his methods and ideologies.

17. How did Gandhi’s communication skills play a role in India’s independence movement? Gandhi’s knack for persuasive and powerful communication helped him connect with the masses, spread his ideas, and mobilize support for the freedom struggle.

18. What was Bose-Gandhi controversy, and how did it impact the independence movement? The Bose-Gandhi controversy highlighted ideological differences between Gandhi’s non-violent approach and Subhas Chandra Bose’s armed resistance, compromising their mutual support.

19. How did Gandhi’s imprisonment affect the independence movement? Each of Gandhi’s multiple imprisonments during the struggle infused new energy into the movement, as his imprisonment symbolized resistance against British oppression.

20. How did Gandhi’s assassination impact the post-independence era in India? Gandhi’s assassination left a void in India’s political landscape, but his principles continued to guide the nation’s socio-political fabric, fostering communal harmony and democracy.

Conclusion: Mahatma Gandhi’s relentless struggle for India’s independence set a profound benchmark for civil rights movements worldwide. His steadfast devotion to non-violence, truth, and justice left an indelible mark on Indian history and inspired countless generations to strive for freedom and equality. Gandhi’s legacy continues to guide individuals and nations on the path of peace and non-violent resistance.

Print Friendly, PDF & Email

Share this:

Discover more from history.

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

Academia.edu no longer supports Internet Explorer.

To browse Academia.edu and the wider internet faster and more securely, please take a few seconds to  upgrade your browser .

Enter the email address you signed up with and we'll email you a reset link.

  • We're Hiring!
  • Help Center

paper cover thumbnail

The Role of Mahatma Gandhi in the Freedom Movement of India

Profile image of Ujjawal Singh

Indian freedom struggle involves the political movements that were widely popularized against the oppressing outlook of the British dominion, both by employing non-violent and violent measures. Broadly speaking, the history of the freedom struggle can be divided into two distinctive phases, i.e., Pre-Gandhian period (1885-1919) and Post-Gandhian period (1919-1947). In the latter phase, Gandhi led millions into active politics and movement for independence mass-centric. However, he was clear that the springs of their activity did not lie with him but with themselves. He was able to grasp the basic dialectic of leader-masses relationship. Through his leadership, Indian National Congress became an effective organization for politics and mass struggle, to mobilize and unite an atomized and dispersed people, to evolve correct strategy and tactics which would correspond to the specific historical situation of exploitation and oppression. Political Background of India before the Arrival of...

Related Papers

Journal ijmr.net.in(UGC Approved)

A standout amongst the most prominently examined and yet many-a-period dubious figure of Indian politics is Mahatma Gandhi. There is not really any zone in the pre or post-independence period that he had left untramplled for Indian improvement and independence. He is such a socio-political figure who is scarcely incomprehensible for somebody to overlook or disregard. He has impacted each part of human awareness and there is not really any discipline that he has left uncommented. Maybe a couple would debate the idea that Mahatma Gandhi was one of the twentieth century's transformative political and spiritual leaders. Among his numerous prominent commitments, Gandhi is appropriately credited with pioneering Satyagraha, protection from oppression however mass common rebellion and vocalizing an otherworldly message that helped the Indian National Congress procure independence from the British in August 1947. In Gandhi's glorified state, there would be no representative government, no constitution, no army or police constrain; there would be no industrialization, no machines and absolutely no modern cities.

essay on role of gandhi in freedom struggle

Indian politics is Mahatma Gandhi. There is not really any zone in the pre or post-independence period that he had left untramplled for Indian improvement and independence. He is such a socio-political figure who is scarcely incomprehensible for somebody

The impact of Non-violence in the nationalist movement of India is beyond criticism. Gandhi wanted to inspire the nation, not for a blood-shedding struggle but rather in a theosophical way i.e. Ahimsa. The arrival of Non-violence waved the women's souls to plunge into nationalist movements such as

Usha R Vijailakshmi

Civil disobedience is a public, non-violent and conscientious breach of law undertaken with the aim of bringing about a change in laws or government policies. Civil disobedience is generally regarded as more morally defensible than both ordinary offences and other forms of protest such as militant action or coercive violence. The Civil disobedience movement of India was a unique attempt where ordinary people accepting the leadership of Gandhi, in a non-violent way stood against the might of the British Empire. This event shook the foundation of the British Empire and also made a wide spectrum of people to accept a single goal: swarajya or self-rule. But therein lay the uncertainty; while Gandhi believed swarajya was inner transformation of Indians, other congress leaders thought it was either collapse of British administration or gaining of dominion status. To common man it was either complete independence or at least dominion status and a euphoria that they were into something very important. But when the collective effort of the people that cut across their regional, linguistic, caste and religious differences was not rewarded with either Independence or dominion status it led to fissures within congress and marred the image of the leader who took them through the movement. It also resulted in Gandhi moving away from the party he led for a period of nine years. The paper attempts to study the movement from one of its major centers and tries to understand what is important in a mass movement, the means or the end or both? Keywords: Civil disobedience, Satyagraha, Non-violence, Leadership, Dominion status, Gandhi.

AHSANUL FAHIM AHMED

The Non-Cooperation Movement led by Mahatma Gandhi was a critical chapter in the Anti-British Movement in India during the early 20th century. This paper provides a case study of the Non-Cooperation Movement, its goals, and its impact on Indian society and politics. The paper examines the historical context that led to the movement, its main objectives, and the strategies and tactics used to challenge British colonial rule.

Annapurna Menon

The Left movement in India began originally in Russia, heavily influenced by international politics. It's a movement not very clearly understood by the Indian masses, which has evolved into many shades. The Left movement kicked off with various Socialist and Communist Parties being formed, and also getting a lot of patronage within the Congress. In my paper, I hope to discuss the evolution of the Left movement, which majorly transforms into a discussion on the Communist Party of India giving a brief history and moving on the post‐Independence period. The main objective of this paper is to understand the movement in context of India, it's influence and how in current days of turmoil it has become a contested ideology, all the while emphasising that like all other ideologies, we need to recognize and accept the fact that the Left isn't of one particular shade. During the 1920s, the National Movement was in full swing in India and had viewed the rise of various streams and methods for the fight. This was the age of Gandhian politics, and the rise of the educated youth giving unprecedented support to the freedom struggle. Due to the unrest among some classes about the inaction of the Moderates, revolutionary terrorism sprouted up in various parts of the country, with the cult of the bomb under the leadership 1 of Lokmanya Tilak and his colleagues ‐ Lala Lajpat Rai and Bakin Chandra, the trio being popularly called as 'Lal‐Pal‐Bal'. This led to the beginning of an alternative method of struggle contributing to the radicalization of the national movement. Add to this, the impact of the Russian revolution which drove the lesson that if common people ‐ the workers, peasants and the intelligentsia could overthrow the might Czarist empire, and establish a socialist state with no exploitation of human beings, the same could be replicated by the Indians. Socialist doctrines became extremely popular with the Communist Manifesto of Karl Marx being released in English and Malayalam almost simultaneously and spreading to further regions. Print media contributed further to the cause with various Socialist weeklys being published. Certain fractions of the populations, dissatisfied with the Gandhian policies were more attracted to the same. A lot of youth associations were formed in Bengal, Punjab and to a certain extent, other princely states. Similar groups were formed by Indians living abroad. These groups started planning the liberation of India from abroad with the help of countries hostile towards the British. An example of this was the Ghadar Party formed in US in 1913. The Russian Communist Party, its leaders, Lenin and the Communist International paid a great deal of attention of the revolutionary emigres on their soil. While the emigres had committed themselves to the idea of Communism, many of them didn't understand the concept clearly.

American Historical Review

Mithi Mukherjee

Sourav Sukesan

Kopalle Venkata Ramakrishna Rao

RELATED PAPERS

gary mathern

Resocjalizacja Polska

Barbara Ostafińska-Molik

Paul Causon

Rocky Mountain Journal of Mathematics

Abdeslam Mimouni

American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Katherine Bianco

Transport and Communications Science Journal

Tuấn Trần Anh

Biomedical Optics Express

Stefan Kröll

Ágnes -Pádárné Vámos

Ruth Wanjau

Jasa Bersih Jok Yogya

Viralbelanjatiktokshop 0253

Scientometrics

Martyn Harris

Revista Inclusiones

Nerea Blanco González

Populist Discourse and Democracy in India: Emerging Issues and Trends

Sourav Goswami

Revista de Economia Contemporânea

Yony Sampaio

Juan Fernandez-Mayoralas

The Journal of Clinical Hypertension

Ramón Costa

Open forum infectious diseases

Erika Benko

Remote Sensing of Environment

Gregoire Vincent

Katja Holmala

Marcus Gregório Serrano

bioRxiv (Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory)

John SantaLucia

Popular Music in Spanish Cinema

Diana Díaz González

  •   We're Hiring!
  •   Help Center
  • Find new research papers in:
  • Health Sciences
  • Earth Sciences
  • Cognitive Science
  • Mathematics
  • Computer Science
  • Academia ©2024

Indian Freedom Struggle

The Indian freedom struggle began with the 1st war of Indian independence. Later on, Indian National Congress was established in 1885 when 72 delegates from all over the country met in Bombay. Indian National Congress played a very important role in the Indian freedom struggle. This article will provide interesting snippets about the Indian freedom struggle.

Indian Freedom Struggle – Moderate Approach

In the first 20 years, the Indian National Congress (INC) was moderate in its approach. They began by demanding a greater voice for Indians in the administration and government. It called for conducting civil services examinations in India. INC demanded that the Legislative councils be introduced in provinces where they did not exist and more power be given to the Legislative councils to make them more representative.

  • INC demanded freedom of speech and expression.
  • They wanted to repeal the arms laws and separate the judiciary from the executive.
  • The INC also demanded the British reduce the economic woes of the Indians by seeking more funds for irrigation, reducing the military expenditure, reducing land revenue, etc.
  • The INC passed many resolutions on the sufferings of forest dwellers, treatment of Indian labourers abroad and on the subject of the salt tax.
  • The moderate leaders of the INC tried to increase the awareness of the general public about the unjust British rule by giving speeches, writing articles, publishing newspapers, and sending their representatives to different parts of the country to mobilise the opinion of the public.

Indian Freedom Struggle – Rise of Radicals

  • By the 1890s, Lala Lajpat Rai in Punjab, Bipin Chandra Pal in Bengal, and Bal Gangadhar Tilak in Maharashtra were unhappy with the political style of Congress.
  • They tried to explore more radical objectives and methods.
  • They were unhappy with the “politics of prayers”.
  • The radicals emphasised constructive work and self-reliance.
  • Tilak raised the slogan, “Freedom is my birthright and I shall have it!”
  • Radicals wanted people to fight for their swaraj by relying on their own strength and not based on good intentions of the British government.

Mahatma Gandhi

The Indian freedom struggle is always incomplete without understanding the contributions of Mahatma Gandhi. Mahatma Gandhi played a very pivotal role. He led the Non-Cooperation Movement, Civil Disobedience Movement, Salt Satyagraha, and Quit India Movement.

  • He was born in Porbandar, located in Gujarat.
  • Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi is the full name of Mahatma Gandhi. He was born on 2nd October 1869.
  • Mahatma Gandhi died on 30th January 1948.
  • Mahatma Gandhi is known as the Father of the Nation.

Salt Satyagraha – Dandi March

  • Gandhi led a large group of people from Sabarmati Ashram on 12th March 1930 to Dandi, a coastal village in Gujarat, to break the salt law by producing salt from seawater.
  • The British Government in India had imposed a salt tax, hence Mahatma Gandhi started the Salt Satyagraha. It was a Civil Disobedience Movement.
  • The Salt Satyagraha march lasted for 24 days from 12 March 1930 to 5 April 1930.
  • When Mahatma Gandhi started the Salt Satyagraha, he was accompanied by 80 satyagrahis, all of whom were inmates of his ashram.
  • As they kept moving from village to village, the length of the procession kept increasing.
  • Mahatma Gandhi reached Dandi on 6th April, manufactured salt from the seawater and violated the Salt law made by the British.

Related Links

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who started the freedom struggle in india, who are the 5 most famous freedom fighters of india, who is the best freedom fighter in india, what was bhagat singh’s slogan, what was subhash chandra bose’s slogan.

essay on role of gandhi in freedom struggle

  • Share Share

Register with BYJU'S & Download Free PDFs

Register with byju's & watch live videos.

Live Support

Essay on the Role of Mahatma Gandhi in India’s struggle for freedom

essay on role of gandhi in freedom struggle

a. Introduction:

One could write volumes of papers criticizing Gandhiji’s actions but no one could afford to deny the fact that his life and activities occupies a major portion of the story of India’s struggle for Independence.

Indeed, it was under his leadership that the Indian national movement attained a new dimension.

b. ‘Satyagralia’:

ADVERTISEMENTS:

Gandhiji discovered a new technique of resistance based on religion and truth.

This new technique was called ‘Satyagraha”. Gandhiji’s creed of Satyagraha aimed at redressing a wrong at the door of the opponent.

After his success in the initial experiment of satyagraha in South Africa he applied this technique to India’s struggle for freedom.

c. Gandhiji’s Political Career:

The success that Gandhiji achieved at Champaran and Ahmedabad through non-violence helped him to decide his future course of action.

In 1919 the Rowlatt Bill was publicized. Gandhiji reacted to this unjust Rowlatt Bill by organizing Satyagraha Sahha and called upon people to observe a day of ‘hartal’.

But when he found that the forces of violence had not yet been eradicated he retraced his steps. A similar fate awaited the Non Co-operation movement that Gandhiji inaugurated in 1920.

d. Hindu-Muslim Unity:

Non Co-operation Movement:

Gandhiji laid stress on the Hindu-Muslim unity, for, he considered it to be one of the fundamental points necessary for forming and strengthening the nation.

This conviction of his led him to include the Muslim demand for vindication of the prestige of the Caliph with the demand for the fulfilment of Swaraj in the Non-violent Non Co­operation Movement.

When the movement was at its height the Chauri Chaura incident, in which 22 constables were burnt to death by the infuriated mob, led to the suspension of it.

e. Gandhiji on Untouchability:

Gandhiji also addressed himself to the social problem of ‘untouchabilitv”.

He coined a new word harijan to substit.ite ‘achhut’ (untouchables) Gandhiji’s ambition was to reintegrate the hahjans within the social and cultural life of the caste-Hindu society.

During the 30s of the present century Gandhiji undertook a vigorous anti-touchability campaign alongside the constructive programme.

Meanwhile on the political front there had begun the Civil Disobedience Movement.

f. Gandhiji and Civil Disobedience:

Gandhiji deliberately had chosen the item of salt in his agenda for civil disobedience. For; salt was an item consumed by all irrespective of class, creed, religion, rich and poor.

And thereby he ensured mass participation in the movement. Manufacture of salt being a monopoly of the government, breaking of the Salt Law was also to hit the British government economically.

The British government reacted with brutal force, but after some time attempts were made to settle the issue with Gandhiji. Readiness for compromise was also an essential feature of Gandhiji’s tactics.

As the British govt, conceded some of the vital demands (e.g manufacture of salt) Gandhiji may be said to have achieved partial success.

g. Quit India Movement:

In 1942 his slogan ‘Do or Die’ was raised in the wake of the Japanese aggression which seemed imminent.

This was his sort of last bid call to the people of India to win freedom Gandhiji called upon the British to ‘Quit India’ so that the Indians could find themselves in a stronger position to meet the Japanese aggression.

‘Quit India’ may be regarded as the culminating point in Gandhiji’s work within the national struggle for Independence.

h. Conclusion:

After 1945 Gandhiji gradually withdrew himself from politics Growing violence worried him.

Communal violence became his immediate concern. Gandhiji also realized that his influence in the counsels of the Congress waned perceptibly.

No doubt he later on participated in the talks with the British authorities on various issues in the process of the transfer or power, but the results did not coincide with his wishes However.

Gandhiji was very much opposed to the partition of India’ But he was one not to impose any of his will on others. Nor he had the intention to block a settlement which the leaders had accepted.

Indeed, he maintained this personal democratic approach till the end. Gandhiji undertook his final fast against communal madness early in January, 1948, and he was assassinated on 30 January, 1948.

Related Articles:

  • What was the Role of Gandhiji in the Freedom Struggle of India?
  • Analyse the role of Mahatma Gandhi in the freedom movement of India
  • Essay on the Emergence of Gandhi in India’s Struggle for Freedom
  • Short Essay on Mahatma Gandhi and his Leadership

CbseAcademic.in

Essay on Freedom Struggle

India’s freedom struggle is a tale of courage, sacrifice, and determination that spanned decades and eventually led to the country’s independence from British rule. In this essay, I will argue why the freedom struggle in India is a significant and inspiring chapter in history, supported by evidence, examples, and expert opinions.

Colonial Rule in India

To understand the freedom struggle, it’s essential to recognize the context. India was under British colonial rule for nearly 200 years, starting in the mid-18th century. The British Empire controlled India, exploiting its resources and people for their own gain.

Early Movements and Leaders

The freedom struggle began with the voices of early leaders like Raja Ram Mohan Roy, who advocated for social reforms, and Dadabhai Naoroji, who stressed economic self-sufficiency for India. These leaders laid the foundation for the larger movement.

Non-Cooperation Movement

Mahatma Gandhi, often called the Father of the Nation, played a pivotal role in the freedom struggle. His non-cooperation movement urged Indians to boycott British goods and institutions, sparking a sense of unity and defiance among the people.

Civil Disobedience and Salt March

Gandhi’s civil disobedience campaign involved acts of peaceful protest, such as the famous Salt March. This movement showcased the power of nonviolence and stirred the world’s attention to India’s plight.

World War II and Quit India Movement

During World War II, India’s support was sought by the British, but the Indian National Congress, under Gandhi’s leadership, demanded immediate independence in exchange for cooperation. The Quit India Movement of 1942 intensified the call for freedom.

Impact of World War II

The global context also played a role in India’s freedom struggle. The weakening of the British Empire after World War II made it increasingly challenging to maintain control over India.

Partition and Independence

As the struggle for freedom continued, a difficult decision was made to partition India into two independent nations, India and Pakistan, in 1947. India finally gained its long-awaited independence on August 15, 1947.

Legacy of the Freedom Struggle

The legacy of India’s freedom struggle is profound. It not only secured India’s independence but also inspired other nations in their quests for freedom. Leaders like Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru became symbols of peaceful resistance and nation-building.

Expert Opinions

Historians worldwide acknowledge the significance of India’s freedom struggle. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a renowned civil rights leader in the United States, drew inspiration from Gandhi’s nonviolent methods in his own fight for equality and justice.

Conclusion of Essay on Freedom Struggle

In conclusion, India’s freedom struggle was a monumental journey that culminated in the end of colonial rule and the birth of an independent nation. The courage and determination of leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, the sacrifices made by countless Indians, and the eventual triumph of nonviolent resistance make this struggle an inspiring chapter in history. India’s path to freedom serves as a reminder that, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges, the pursuit of justice, liberty, and self-determination can lead to remarkable achievements. The legacy of the freedom struggle continues to shape India’s identity and inspire movements for justice and equality worldwide. It is a testament to the power of unity, perseverance, and the unwavering belief in the principles of freedom and justice.

Also Check: Simple Guide on How To Write An Essay

Optimize IAS

  • Daily Practice Sheets
  • Daily Prelims Notes
  • Prelims Power Play
  • Mains Factly
  • Sunday Essay Sadhna
  • Mains Master Notes
  • Daily Answer Writing
  • Essay Master Class
  • Ethics Master Class
  • Laqshya 2024
  • Laqshya 2024 OPTIMA
  • ARJUNA PRIME 2024
  • Important Topics List for Prelims 2024
  • Daily Prelims Notes Compilation
  • Daily Practice Sheet Compilation
  • PPP Compilation
  • General Studies Notes
  • UPSC Mains Previous Year Papers
  • Portal Login

Contribution of Mahatma Gandhi in freedom movement

  • October 2, 2022
  • Posted by: OptimizeIAS Team
  • Category: DPN Topics

Subject :History

Gandhi Jayanti is celebrated all over the country on October 2.

  • Mahatma Gandhi was born on 2 October, 1869 at Porbandar, Gujarat.
  • Mahatma Gandhi was a  renowned freedom activist  who had played an important role in India’s struggle for Independence against the British rule of India.
  • His ideology of truth and non-violence influenced  many and was also  adopted by Martin Luther and Nelson Mandela for their struggle movement.

Early Life:

  • At the age of 19, Mohandas left home to study law in London at the Inner Temple, one of the city’s four law colleges. Upon returning to India in mid-1891, he set up a law practice in Bombay, but met with little success. He soon accepted a position with an Indian firm that sent him to its office in South Africa. Along with his wife, Kasturbai, and their children, Gandhi remained in South Africa for nearly 20 years.
  • Books that inspired Mahatma Gandhi : Unto this Last by John Ruskin and The Kingdom of God is within you’ by Leo Tolstoy.
  • English artist John Ruskin’s book  Unto This Last  inspired Gandhi and he set up Phoenix Farm near Durban. Here, Gandhi would train his cadres on non-violent Satyagraha or peaceful restraint. Phoenix Farm is considered as the birthplace of Satyagraha. However, it was at the Tolstoy Farm , Gandhi’s second camp in South Africa, where Satyagraha was molded into a weapon of protest.

Associations by Gandhiji in South Africa:

  • Natal Indian Congress
  • Passive Resistance Association

Journals by Gandhiji in South Africa:

  • Indian Opinion

Gandhiji in India:

  • In 1915, after returning from South Africa, where he had perfected the art of non-violent resistance or satyagraha,  Mahatma Gandhi spent the next few years in fully understanding Indian conditions and  travelled widely across the length and breadth of this vast nation .
  • Gandhi also met the Congress leadership and took everyone’s suggestions on board, before taking tentative steps towards launching himself into the Indian Independence struggle.
  • While the Indian freedom movement can be thought of as one single struggle that lasted decades, in reality there were  phases of great activity and relatively lull periods as well.  And much of this calendar of protests and tactical retreat was decided by Gandhi himself, who apart from being the greatest advocate of peace and violence in modern times,  was also a brilliant organiser of mass movements.  He understood the people’s pulse like few others.
  • Champaran Movement:  The Champaran Movement is regarded as the  first modern civil disobedience movement in India . It took place in the then Champaran district of northern Bihar. The  Indian labourers and farm-workers here tilled the land but all the profits went to the European landowners.  The labourers protested but it was Gandhi’s involvement in their struggle that culminated in the Champaran Agrarian Act, 1918, which helped farmers secure greater rights over their own land. The success of Champaran made many more Indians aware of Gandhi and his principles, and the Congress party found its greatest mass leader.
  • Ahmedabad Mill Worker Satyagraha: In March 1918, under the leadership of Gandhi, there was a strike in the cotton mills. In this strike Gandhi used the weapon of Hunger strike.
  • Kheda Satyagraha:  In Kheda, Gujarat, despite crop failures, the  farmers’ desperate pleas for tax remission fell on deaf ears.  Gandhi’s message to them was to withhold revenue and fight peacefully but bravely against such vindictiveness and tyranny. Another rising star of the freedom movement, SardarVallabhbhai Patel , also played a key role in this struggle of 1918. The local government eventually came out with a solution that was acceptable to both parties. The Champaran and Kheda campaigns were limited to specific areas, but they gave Gandhi the confidence to launch his major pan-Indian movements in future.
  • Rowlatt Act Satyagraha : During World War I (1914–18), the British government of India enacted a series of repressive emergency powers that were intended to combat subversive activities. The Anarchical and Revolutionary Crimes Act of 1919 popularly known as Rowlatt Act (Black Act) which was passed on 10 th March, 1919, authorised the government to imprison or confine, without a trial, any person associated with seditious activities which led to nationwide unrest. Gandhiji called for a one-day general strike ( Rowlatt Satyagraha ) throughout the country.
  • Non-Cooperation Movement : The Non-Cooperation movement (1920-22) was the  first mass movement launched by Gandhi, seeking self-government or swaraj  for all Indians. It followed from Gandhi’s deeply held ideals of satyagraha and civil disobedience, and he called upon Indians to boycott all institutions linked to the British including courts and colleges, give up titles and refuse to pay taxes. Audacious in scope, the Non-Cooperation movement may not have been a 100 per cent success, but it made millions of Indians understand the true meaning of a modern, organised political movement and its power.
  • Dandi March : An unqualified masterstroke, the Dandi March brought Mahatma Gandhi’s  political genius and sense of timing to the fore . He started the historic march from Sabarmati Ashram to the coastal village of Dandi in March 1930. While the basic reason was to protest against the unacceptably high salt tax levied by the British, it turned into something much bigger as thousands of people joined Gandhi on his 24-day march. The Dandi March became the talking point across the country and the whole nation was inspired. From that moment onwards,  non-violent resistance against the British became the natural course of action for a vast section of Indians for the remaining years of the Raj. 
  • Quit India Movement:  By the beginning of the 1940s, the British knew that their days in India were numbered, but they used the excuse of World War 2 to delay any talk of India’s independence. In August 1942, the All-India Congress Committee passed the famous ‘Quit India’ resolution in Bombay, under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi, who also gave the  slogan of ‘Do or Die’ . The entire leadership of the Congress was arrested, but that didn’t stop thousands of protests against British rule in every corner of the country. There was no middle path now: the British had to quit India.

Journals of Gandhiji

  • Mahatma Gandhi was offered editorship of Young India and Navjivan
  • In February 1933 Gandhiji started  Harijan, Harijanbandhu, Harijansevak in English, Gujarati and Hindi,

Organisations by Mahatma Gandhi

  • Harijan Sevak Sangh
  • All India spinners association
  • Ahmedabad Textile Labour Association
  • All India Village Industries’ Association

IMAGES

  1. Essay on mahatma gandhi in english -300 Words

    essay on role of gandhi in freedom struggle

  2. PPT

    essay on role of gandhi in freedom struggle

  3. Essay on Mahatma Gandhi [100, 150, 200, 300, 500 Words]

    essay on role of gandhi in freedom struggle

  4. Role Of Mahatma Gandhi In Freedom Struggle

    essay on role of gandhi in freedom struggle

  5. Role of Gandhi in Freedom Struggle

    essay on role of gandhi in freedom struggle

  6. Role of mahatma gandhi in freedom struggle essays

    essay on role of gandhi in freedom struggle

VIDEO

  1. About Freedom #shorts

  2. Nehru ji .. Mahatama Gandhi .. freedom struggle #shorts

  3. 1948 Gandhi assassinated #onthisday #shorts #didyouknow #gandhi #india #remember

  4. Mahatma Gandhi Freedom Fighter? or someone #facts

  5. Quit India Movement: The Turning Point #shorts #facts #historyofindia

  6. Remembering Mahatma Gandhi: A Tribute on Gandhi Jayanti

COMMENTS

  1. Essay on Role of Mahatma Gandhi in Freedom Struggle

    Mahatma Gandhi's role in India's freedom struggle was transformative. His non-violent approach, ability to mobilize the masses, and vision for Swaraj were instrumental in shaping the course of India's freedom struggle. His philosophies have left an indelible mark on India's ethos and continue to inspire movements for civil rights and ...

  2. Role of Mahatma Gandhi in Indian freedom struggle

    Salt March - Gandhi's Salt March, also known as the Dandi Movement, is regarded as a crucial event in the history of the freedom struggle. Gandhi warned the British to grant India dominion status at the Calcutta Congress in 1928, or else the nation would erupt in a revolution for total independence. This was ignored by the British.

  3. Mahatma Gandhi's Life and Freedom Struggle

    Abstract. This paper mainly concentrates on Mahatma Gandhi's Life and Freedom Struggle. Mahatma Gandhi came to be known as Mahatma (great soul) for the courageous, selfless, and nonviolent ...

  4. Role of Mahatma Gandhi in Freedom Struggle

    Read. Role of Mahatma Gandhi in Freedom Struggle: The role of Mahatma Gandhi in the freedom struggle helped to shape Independence in India. The movements of Satyagraha and non-violent movements which were led by Mahatma Gandhi against British rule, played a very important role. He demanded a greater voice for Indians and also moved forward his ...

  5. PDF Gandhi and The Indian Freedom Movement

    Gandhi has written and spoken as much as has taken part in active. movements. He has left, a much wider and deeper imprint on the Indian life and thought than any other freedom fighter of India, if only because of the width and the temporal length of his operation. Yet, or probably due to these, one may find inconsistency between his thought ...

  6. How Gandhi shaped our Independence: 7 major freedom movements initiated

    Also known as the Dandi Movement, Gandhi's Salt March is considered to be a pivotal incident in the history of freedom struggle. At the Calcutta Congress of 1928, Gandhi declared that the British must grant India dominion status or the country will erupt into a revolution for complete independence. The British did not pay heed to this.

  7. (PDF) Gandhi's Role in Indian Freedom Struggle: A Critical

    Gandhi had an unflinching and unshakable faith in the theory of non-violence. He played a pivotal role in the India's struggle for freedom which was the world's largest democratic movement. Indian nationalism achieved its highest peak under

  8. (DOC) Gandhi's Role in Indian Freedom Struggle: A Critical

    Gandhi‟s Role in Indian Freedom Struggle: A Critical Understanding Abstract: Gandhi had an unflinching and unshakable faith in the theory of non-violence. He played a pivotal role in the India's struggle for freedom which was the world's largest democratic movement. Indian nationalism achieved its highest peak under Gandhi's leadership.

  9. Role of Mahatma Gandhi in Freedom Struggle

    Mahatma Gandhi played a pivotal role in the freedom struggle of India. His non violent ways and peaceful methods were the foundation for gaining independence from the British. Read about Mahatma Gandhi's role in freedom struggle of India. Mahatma Gandhi was born Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi on 2nd October at Porbandar located in Gujarat.

  10. Essay on Mahatma Gandhi

    Role of Mahatma Gandhi in India's Freedom Struggle The significance of non-violence in India's freedom struggle gained prominence with the involvement of Mahatma Gandhi. While there were parallel violent movements against British rule, the peaceful nature of non-violence made it a powerful way to demand complete independence.

  11. PDF Role of Mahatma Gandhi in national freedom movement in India

    Everyone contributed what they could in the freedom struggle. Mahatma Gandhi 'Father of the Nation' is also known as Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi. He was born on 2 October, 1869 Porbandar, Gujarat, India. Gandhi ji got married to the Kasturba Makhanji at the age of just 13 years. He had played an important role in India's freedom struggle.

  12. Role of Mahatma Gandhi in India Struggle for Freedom

    This was infact Gandhi's first active participation for the struggle of India's freedom. In Champaran, the farmers were forced cultivate indigo. If they protested they were badly tortured. So, the farmers took the help of Gandhi. They organized a non-violent protest and Gandhi was able to get concessions from the authority. Non-Cooperation ...

  13. Essay on Mahatma Gandhi

    500+ Words Essay on Mahatma Gandhi. Essay on Mahatma Gandhi - Mahatma Gandhi was a great patriotic Indian, if not the greatest. He was a man of an unbelievably great personality. He certainly does not need anyone like me praising him. Furthermore, his efforts for Indian independence are unparalleled. Most noteworthy, there would have been a ...

  14. Mahatma Gandhi Movements during Indian Freedom Struggle

    Mahatma Gandhi Movements: Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi (Mahatma Gandhi) was born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, Gujarat. He earned a degree in law from England in 1891. Before entering Indian politics in 1915, he was in South Africa from 1893 to 1914. In the course of his struggle in South Africa, he developed his political philosophy based on non-violence and Satyagraha to give a new ...

  15. Mahatma Gandhi's Struggle for Indian Independence

    Mahatma Gandhi, a prominent figure and revered leader in the Indian independence movement, played a pivotal role in India's freedom struggle against British colonial rule. Gandhi's principles of non-violence, truth, and civil disobedience created a powerful platform for India's pursuit of independence. This article dives into the ...

  16. The Role of Mahatma Gandhi in the Freedom Movement of India

    The Role of Mahatma Gandhi in the Freedom Movement of India. Indian freedom struggle involves the political movements that were widely popularized against the oppressing outlook of the British dominion, both by employing non-violent and violent measures. Broadly speaking, the history of the freedom struggle can be divided into two distinctive ...

  17. Indian Freedom Struggle

    Mahatma Gandhi. The Indian freedom struggle is always incomplete without understanding the contributions of Mahatma Gandhi. Mahatma Gandhi played a very pivotal role. He led the Non-Cooperation Movement, Civil Disobedience Movement, Salt Satyagraha, and Quit India Movement. He was born in Porbandar, located in Gujarat.

  18. Essay on the Role of Mahatma Gandhi in India's struggle for freedom

    Gandhiji discovered a new technique of resistance based on religion and truth. This new technique was called 'Satyagraha". Gandhiji's creed of Satyagraha aimed at redressing a wrong at the door of the opponent. After his success in the initial experiment of satyagraha in South Africa he applied this technique to India's struggle for ...

  19. Be Mains Ready

    Explain the additional factors besides role of Gandhi which aided Indian freedom struggle. To critically analyze the statement emphasizes the importance of Gandhi in Freedom movement. ... The peasant movements of the 20th century were deeply influenced by and had a marked impact on the national freedom struggle. Mahatma Gandhi realizing their ...

  20. Role of Mahatma Gandhi in Freedom Struggle of India

    By BYJU'S Exam Prep. Updated on: November 14th, 2023. Role of Mahatma Gandhi in Freedom Struggle: Mahatma Gandhi shaped India's independence and his Satyagraha and non-violent movement against British Rule in India became an inspiration for the masses. He demanded a greater voice for Indians in the British government and administration.

  21. The Role of Mahatma Gandhi in India's Freedom Struggle

    Mahatma Gandhi played a pivotal role in the freedom struggle of India. His non violent ways and peaceful methods were the foundation for gaining independence from the British. Read about Mahatma Gandhi's role in freedom struggle of India. Mahatma Gandhi was born Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi on 2nd October at Porbandar located in Gujarat.

  22. Essay on Freedom Struggle

    Conclusion of Essay on Freedom Struggle In conclusion, India's freedom struggle was a monumental journey that culminated in the end of colonial rule and the birth of an independent nation. The courage and determination of leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, the sacrifices made by countless Indians, and the eventual triumph of nonviolent resistance ...

  23. Contribution of Mahatma Gandhi in freedom movement

    Concept: Mahatma Gandhi was born on 2 October, 1869 at Porbandar, Gujarat. Mahatma Gandhi was a renowned freedom activist who had played an important role in India's struggle for Independence against the British rule of India. His ideology of truth and non-violence influenced many and was also adopted by Martin Luther and Nelson Mandela for ...