The relevance of Mahatma Gandhi to contemporary India

Abstract

It is over three decades since Mahatma Gandhi left our midst leaving behind a prolific mass of literature on every aspect of life: political, social, economic, ethical. There are many who think it rather odd that we should still consider it worthwhile to debate the relevance of Gandhian ideals to contemporary India. I for one think the exercise is worthwhile, if for no other reason, than for the fact that the present ruling party and government have chosen to swear by Gandhi and implement his programmes. Because of this it is necessary, first of all, to understand what Gandhi stood for. I intend to relate and assess the relevance of major Gandhian ideals to contemporary India under two broad heads: Gandhi's political ideas and Gandhi's economic ideals.