The importance of being Gandhi

Why Gandhi is important?

    Here I have tried to summarize some points which are uniquely Gandhian. These are the reasons why I admire Gandhi the most among the political leaders past and present.  I had Gandhi on my WhatsApp DP some time ago. I remember someone asked, Why Gandhi ?   I came up with some reasoning for that and seemingly he was not impressed. So then I thought of writing down some of the aspects of Gandhi which I consider his unique contribution to humanity as a whole.

 Ahimsa and violence 

First time in history a major struggle was launched based on Non violent methods which eventually succeeded.  It paved the way for using the method for resolving conflicts. Until then violence was the only option. Gandhi proved and gave another highly successful, viable and less destructive for humanity to follow. It is not that the method will always work. It may not. But it is an option to explore in bigger and even smaller disputes between groups.

End cannot justify means

For any group or groups of people or societies basic understanding is the end or reaching ultimate goal any means is acceptable.  But not for Gandhi. For him means to the end is equally important.  If should just and fair. Otherwise he wouldn't employ the method to achieve the objective.  In modern day politics this idealistic or holistic view is the goal to reach though it is yet to be fruitified in reality.

Always leave room for dialogue 

Another important Gandhiji's idea which is to be adopted is the openness for dialogues always.  He would never break negotiations at any point. He would try to wind up discussions on a positive note or atleast would ensure continuation of negotiations at another point of time. If this is applied even in family discussions that will do a world of good for the families. This will certainly result in avoiding Confrontation and conflicts within groups/family. 

Incremental growth

Gandhi never believed in instant successes. In his scheme of things he would go for  incremental growth. So in his movements he wouldn't hesitate a moment to retain whatever little bit of progress which comes along. After realizing limited achievement of his goal, he would start going for further development. For people who lead big or small movements or agitations for any purpose this approach can be a major guide. 

                                            To be continued....