Gandhi: The Practical Philosophy of the Indian Knowledge Tradition

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sanganer kesari

Society & Culture


The Indian knowledge tradition is not merely a heritage of texts and teachings; it is also a true and practical philosophy of life. Truth, non-violence, equality, self-restraint, and public welfare are its core values. Mahatma Gandhi embodied these ideals not only in thought but also in practice, embodying them without any doubt. This is why Gandhi is considered a living symbol of the Indian tradition. Gandhi made truth the foundation of life and non-violence the weapon of struggle. He demonstrated that injustice and imperialist power can be challenged without violence. He embodied the traditions of the Upanishads and Buddha and Mahavira during the freedom struggle. Swadeshi and self-reliance are Gandhi's other major contributions. The spinning wheel and khadi were not merely economic means for him, but symbols of self-respect and self-reliance. Gandhi brought to life the importance of perseverance and simplicity in the Indian knowledge tradition, in a modern context. Gandhi also offered a new perspective on education and labor. The basic education he imparted made it clear that knowledge is meaningful only when connected to life and labor. Harmony with villages and nature was part of his vision. This seems even more relevant to today's discussions of sustainable development and environmental balance. Gandhi also linked politics with morality. He brought alive the deep connection between religion and morality in Indian tradition, both in power and in struggle. This is why his leadership is considered not merely political, but also moral and spiritual. Indeed, Gandhi did not allow the Indian knowledge tradition to remain a mere memory of the past. He embodied it in life and mass movements. Simply put, Gandhi took the Indian knowledge tradition out of the world of theory and brought it into the realm of life, practice, and mass movements. He demonstrated on a practical level that the Indian knowledge tradition is not merely a heritage of the past, but also a guide for the present and the future. In today's divided, violent and materialistic world, the Gandhian approach based on Indian wisdom is even more relevant, because this tradition shows us the path of humanity, morality and peace, then why should we follow different paths...