File Information
| Document Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | Sanskrit Literature: A Source of Inspiration for Mahatma Gandhi |
| Article Credit | International Referred Online Research journal, ISSN: 2319-6904, Issue: XXIV, Year: 2014, (Pubd in: Academia.edu) |
| Author | Dhananjay Vasudeo Dwivedi (Ranchi University, Faculty Member) (Assistant Professor, Department of Sanskrit, Ranchi College, Ranchi, Jharkhand-834008) |
| Subject | This article examines how Mahatma Gandhi's core principles, including truth, non-violence, fearlessness, dignity of women, God, dharma, brahmacharya, cow protection, and prayer, were inspired by Sanskrit literature, citing specific Sanskrit verses from texts like the Mahabharata, Manusmriti, and the Vedas. |
| Category | Academic article |
| Institution | Ranchi College, Ranchi, Jharkhand-834008 |
| Country of Publication | India |
| Main Topics | Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy, Sanskrit literature as a source of inspiration, Truth (Satya) in Sanskrit texts, Non-violence (Ahimsa) in Sanskrit texts, Fearlessness (Abhaya) in Sanskrit texts, Dignity of women in Sanskrit texts, Concept of Dharma in Sanskrit texts, Prayer and spirituality in Sanskrit texts |
| Number of Pages | 51 |
| Language | English |
| File Type | |
| File Size | 270.2 KB |
Summary Note of this Document
This article by Dr. Dhananjay Vasudeo Dwivedi argues that Mahatma Gandhi's core ethical and spiritual principles were profoundly inspired by Sanskrit literature. The author systematically examines Gandhi's views on truth, non-violence, fearlessness, the dignity of women, God, dharma, brahmacharya, cow protection, and prayer, and then presents corresponding Sanskrit verses from texts such as the Mahabharata, Manusmriti, the Vedas, Upanishads, and Puranas that echo these ideals. For instance, Gandhi's emphasis on truth is linked to verses from the Chanakyanitisutra and Mahabharata, while his advocacy of non-violence is connected to the maxim 'Ahimsa Paramo Dharma.' The article also highlights Gandhi's reverence for women, citing Manusmriti's injunctions to honor them, and his concept of dharma, which is rooted in the Gita's teachings. By juxtaposing Gandhi's quotes with Sanskrit shlokas, the author demonstrates a direct intellectual lineage, suggesting that Gandhi's universal values were not novel but rather a modern articulation of ancient Indian wisdom. The article concludes that Sanskrit literature provided Gandhi with a moral framework that guided his actions and leadership.
Core Themes
- Gandhian philosophy
- Sanskrit scriptures
- Ethical values
- Indian tradition
- Spiritual inspiration
Keywords
About Mahatma Gandhi
Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi lived from 1869 to 1948. Born in India, he trained as a lawyer and became a political thinker. Colonial rule repelled him. He opposed it fiercely and eventually led India’s independence movement.
Gandhi pioneered Satyagraha, the power of truth and nonviolent resistance. He put these ideals into practice during political and social upheavals. Over twenty years in South Africa shaped his thinking. That’s where he developed his tactics of nonviolent defiance. He returned to India in 1915 and launched major movements against British rule. Non-Cooperation Movement. Salt March. Quit India Movement. Each one challenged colonial domination.
In 1883 he married Kasturba Gandhi. Marriage and family life remained central to who he was. He spoke powerfully about his beliefs. His writing included Hind Swaraj, Satyagraha in South Africa, and The Story of My Experiments with Truth, his autobiography.
His vision stretched beyond political independence. Religious harmony mattered to him. Social equality. Self-reliance. Women’s rights. Ending untouchability. All of these were part of what he fought for.
Nonviolence and Satyagraha shaped movements worldwide. Civil rights activists drew from his example. Freedom struggles across the globe felt his influence. His approach changed how people thought about resistance and change.
Complete Gandhi Research Collection
Download the entire collection of Gandhi research PDFs available on HISTORY MARG