Question

Explain the meaning of ‘Satyagraha’ and mention Gandhiji’s ideas of Satyagraha.
OR
Mention the reasons for the rise of nationalism in India.

Hint:

Satyagraha is not just a political tool; it is also a philosophy of life. Gandhi believed that it could be used to address social, economic, and political issues, emphasizing truth, non-violence, and self-sacrifice.

Answer 1

Satyagraha:
The term Satyagraha was coined by Mahatma Gandhi during the Indian freedom struggle, derived from two Sanskrit words:
Satya (meaning "truth") and Agraha (meaning "firmness" or "insistence"). Satyagraha literally means "insistence on truth" or "truth force." It is a method of non-violent resistance and civil disobedience that aims to achieve social and political change through peaceful means, without the use of force.
Gandhiji’s philosophy of Satyagraha was based on the belief that truth and non-violence (Ahimsa) are the most powerful weapons for achieving justice. Satyagraha was not just about resistance, but a way of life, where one must strive to be morally and ethically upright while pursuing a cause.
Gandhiji's Ideas of Satyagraha:
Gandhi outlined several core principles of Satyagraha that were integral to the freedom movement:

Non-Violence (Ahimsa):
The most fundamental principle of Satyagraha is non-violence. Gandhi believed that one must never harm anyone, physically or emotionally, even when fighting for a noble cause. Violence only breeds more violence, whereas non-violence brings out the best in people and leads to a moral victory.
Truth (Satya):
Gandhi emphasized the importance of truth in the fight for justice. He believed that every Satyagrahi (one who practices Satyagraha) must adhere to the truth, no matter how difficult it may be. The truth will eventually prevail, and it is the moral compass that guides actions.
Self-Sacrifice (Tapasya):
Gandhi believed in the power of self-sacrifice. A Satyagrahi was expected to be willing to endure suffering, including imprisonment or violence, without retaliating. This endurance showed moral strength and could inspire others to join the cause.
Civil Disobedience (Vichar Mandal):
Civil disobedience was a crucial part of Satyagraha. Gandhi encouraged people to disobey unjust laws peacefully. This was evident during the Salt March (Dandi March) when Gandhi led thousands of Indians to defy the British monopoly on salt production.
Belief in the Power of the Masses:
Gandhi believed that ordinary people, through Satyagraha, could challenge even the mightiest empire. He encouraged the masses to get involved in the struggle for independence, even those from the rural and illiterate sections of society.
Love and Compassion:
While fighting for justice, Gandhi advocated compassion for the oppressors as well. The idea was to change the heart and mind of the oppressor through love and peaceful means, rather than hatred or violence.
Non-Cooperation and Boycott:
Gandhi's concept of non-cooperation involved refusing to cooperate with the British colonial system, including boycotting British goods, educational institutions, and even the British administration.

Impact of Satyagraha:
Satyagraha played a pivotal role in the Indian independence movement. The first major success was the Champaran Satyagraha of 1917, which focused on the rights of indigo farmers in Bihar. The non-violent protests led to the resolution of their grievances. This was followed by the Kheda Satyagraha (1918) and the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920), which galvanized millions of Indians to fight against British rule. The Salt March of 1930 further exposed the oppressive nature of British colonial rule, leading to international recognition of India's struggle for independence.