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0 min readIntroduction
Before Mahatma Gandhi's arrival on the Indian political scene in 1915, the Indian national movement was largely confined to the educated elite, primarily advocating for reforms through constitutional methods. Its reach was limited, often failing to resonate with the vast majority of the Indian populace, especially the rural masses. The period between 1917 and 1922, marked by Gandhi's initial experiments in India, fundamentally transformed this landscape. His unique approach, characterized by 'Satyagraha' and an understanding of the Indian ethos, broadened the movement's base, brought in diverse sections of society, and infused it with distinctly Indian characteristics, thereby leading to its "Indianization."
The term "Indianization of the national movement" signifies a profound shift from an elite-driven, Western-oriented political struggle to a mass-based movement rooted in Indian cultural values, socio-economic realities, and indigenous methods of protest. Gandhi's early movements laid the groundwork for this transformation, making the struggle for independence truly representative of the Indian people.
Key Aspects of Indianization through Early Movements (1917-1922)
1. Connecting with the Masses: Addressing Local Grievances
Gandhi’s initial movements were not abstract political demands but directly addressed the localized economic and social injustices faced by ordinary Indians. This approach made the national movement tangible and relatable for millions.
- Champaran Satyagraha (1917): This was Gandhi's first experiment with Satyagraha in India. He championed the cause of indigo farmers (ryots) in Champaran, Bihar, who were exploited under the oppressive "Tinkathia system" by European planters. By personally investigating their plight, collecting testimonies, and defying official orders to leave, Gandhi demonstrated solidarity with the rural poor. The success, leading to the abolition of the Tinkathia system and compensation for farmers, brought agrarian distress into national discourse and established Gandhi as a leader who could deliver results for the common people.
- Ahmedabad Mill Strike (1918): Here, Gandhi intervened in a dispute between textile mill owners and workers in Ahmedabad over plague bonuses and wage increases. He adopted a hunger strike to support the workers' demands for a 35% wage hike. This movement introduced the urban working class into the national movement, showcasing that non-violent collective bargaining could be effective in industrial disputes. The successful resolution brought a new dimension to labor activism.
- Kheda Satyagraha (1918): In Kheda, Gujarat, farmers faced severe crop failure due to drought but were still compelled to pay full land revenue. Gandhi, along with local leaders like Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, led a non-cooperation movement, urging peasants to withhold revenue payments. The government eventually conceded, suspending taxes for the poorest farmers. This movement cemented Gandhi's reputation among the peasantry and demonstrated the power of disciplined non-violent resistance against unjust government policies, strengthening the Congress's base in rural areas.
2. Introduction of Indigenous Methods: Satyagraha and Ahimsa
Gandhi replaced the petitions and resolutions of the moderates, and the revolutionary violence of the extremists, with a distinctly Indian method of protest – Satyagraha, based on truth and non-violence (Ahimsa).
- Satyagraha as a Philosophy: Satyagraha, meaning 'truth-force' or 'soul-force,' was a moral weapon that appealed to the conscience of the oppressor rather than resorting to violence or passive resistance. This philosophy resonated deeply with Indian spiritual traditions and cultural values.
- Mass Civil Disobedience: Gandhi actively encouraged civil disobedience, which involved open defiance of unjust laws while accepting the consequences. This was a radical departure from previous methods and required immense moral courage from participants.
3. Broadening the Social Base and Inclusivity
Gandhi's movements effectively transcended traditional social barriers, drawing in segments of society previously marginalized or untouched by the political struggle.
- Inclusion of Peasants and Workers: As seen in Champaran, Kheda, and Ahmedabad, Gandhi actively brought peasants and industrial workers into the political fold, integrating their specific grievances into the broader nationalist agenda.
- Women's Participation: The non-violent nature of Satyagraha made it acceptable for women to participate actively, particularly in public demonstrations, picketing, and constructive programs.
- Hindu-Muslim Unity (Early Phase): Gandhi recognized the importance of Hindu-Muslim unity for a strong national movement. His leadership during the Khilafat Movement (1919-1924) alongside the Ali brothers, where he supported the cause of Indian Muslims regarding the Ottoman Caliphate, aimed to forge a united front against British rule, though this unity proved fragile later.
4. From Regional to National Mass Mobilization
While the initial movements were localized, they provided Gandhi with valuable experience and laid the foundation for nationwide agitation.
- Rowlatt Satyagraha (1919): In response to the draconian Rowlatt Act, which allowed detention without trial, Gandhi called for a nationwide 'hartal' (strike) and civil disobedience. This was the first all-India protest against the British, demonstrating the potential for mass mobilization across diverse regions. Though it turned violent in some places (culminating in the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre), it proved that ordinary Indians were ready to defy the British.
- Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922): This movement marked the culmination of Gandhi's early efforts to Indianize the national struggle. It was a comprehensive program of non-violent non-cooperation aimed at withdrawing Indian support from all British institutions.
Impact of Non-Cooperation Movement on Indianization:
| Aspect of Indianization | Details of Non-Cooperation Movement's Contribution |
|---|---|
| Mass Participation | Students boycotted schools and colleges; lawyers like Motilal Nehru and C.R. Das gave up their practices; peasants, tribals, and women participated on an unprecedented scale. This made it a true 'people's movement'. |
| Cultural and Symbolic | Emphasis on Khadi (homespun cloth) as a symbol of self-reliance and national pride; boycott of foreign goods; use of vernacular languages in political discourse, replacing English, which further connected with the masses. |
| Constructive Programme | Promotion of Hindu-Muslim unity, abolition of untouchability, promotion of cottage industries, and national education institutions. These initiatives aimed at internal societal reform alongside political liberation, embodying an Indian vision of Swaraj. |
| Decentralization | The movement decentralized political activity, with local grievances finding expression within the broader national framework, empowering local leadership and participation. |
5. Simplification and Accessibility of Leadership
Gandhi's personal lifestyle, attire, and communication style significantly contributed to the Indianization of leadership.
- Simple Living: His adoption of a simple dhoti and charkha (spinning wheel) made him relatable to the poorest farmer and worker. This stood in stark contrast to the Westernized attire of earlier nationalist leaders.
- Vernacular Communication: Gandhi consistently used vernacular languages to communicate with the masses, making political ideas accessible to those unfamiliar with English.
Conclusion
The period between 1917 and 1922 unequivocally marked the Indianization of the national movement. Through his early experiments in Champaran, Ahmedabad, and Kheda, Gandhi developed and perfected the technique of Satyagraha, linking the national struggle to the everyday grievances of ordinary Indians. The Rowlatt Satyagraha and, most significantly, the Non-Cooperation Movement, transformed the Congress from an elite platform into a truly mass organization. By adopting indigenous methods, symbols like Khadi, and inclusive strategies, Gandhi not only broadened the movement's social base but also instilled a sense of self-respect and courage, making the fight for independence a truly Indian people’s struggle.
Answer Length
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