The literature regarding M.K. Gandhi deals with his views of politics, ethics, economic ideas and religious views. However, there is little exploration into the coherence of these domains of thoughts of the stalwart figure. Critics treat his views on the different matters in isolation with each other. Nevertheless, he communicates the very important message of the dutiful existence of human beings through his views of life and the civilization.
V.S. Naipaul opines that there is no way to abide by the philosophy of Gandhism, owing to the lack of unity in his ideas. The khadi and charka are taken as signifiers of his views of life. The theory of purusharthas states that human beings are in pursuit of wealth, pleasure, power, spiritual transcendence and ethical integrity. Gandhi gives an opinion that one needs to surpass the human condition, so that the person can fulfill purushartha. He believed in winning over hatred with love and nonviolence. He was in pursuit of moksha, and this is established in his writings about his life. He believed in spreading love, being selfless. Gandhi relies on the words of Bhagvad Gita to preach his views to the people. He talks of spiritual swaraj that can be attained through ahimsa or nonviolence. He argues that civilization demands of man to tread on the path of duty and righteousness in life. He complains against the modern people as they give more stress to artha and kama, rather than giving omnipotence to moksha and dharma. Gandhian ahimsa, however, does not refer to pacifism of any sort. It means treading on the path of least violence in the path of public life. The Gandhian philosophy evokes elimination of poverty and rejection of riches at the very same time.
The arguments that have been presented in the writing establish with clarity how different Gandhi’s way of life was. It is very clear to the avid readers how this man stood out with the ideals. His interpretation of the sacred texts of the Indian culture make one think of the infallibility of ancient thoughts and their omnipotence even in the present day world.
The opinion of Gandhi is really inspiring. He encourages the mind to live a life free of all the constricted views of the world. Living life in his way would mean giving something back to the society that in turn would contribute to the well-being of the civilization. If the people can do away with their flaws and selfishness, life can be a lot better. Gandhi’s philosophy might be non-coherent in nature, but he ignites the human mind to walk in the path of duty and respect. Following his ideals can bring a huge change in one’s life, and make the world a better place to live in.
The most important thing that is learned from this writing is the importance of ahimsa or nonviolence. Living in a world that is battered every day with bloodshed and crime against human kind, the Gandhian philosophy evokes one to live life peacefully, abstaining from any violence. The message of love in the face of hatred is hard to find in the present day scenario, but it can be a welcome change in the realm of violence and resentment. His message of love and peace is the epitome of humanity.
A few questions remain in the mind after reading the piece. If one abides by the philosophy of Gandhi, then he needs to abstain from indulging in comforts of life. Then, is it not possible to be righteous and helpful to mankind even after living in affluence? Also, is the concept of ahimsa is strong enough to deal with complicated world politics like terrorism, wars and genocide?
Works Cited
Parel, Anthony J. The Purusharthas and Unity in Gandhi’s Thought.
