Today, I had an extraordinary encounter with Mahatma Gandhi—yes, the revered Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi. Not in a dream, but in the tangible world. My mother, ever skeptical of my storytelling, didn’t believe me. But I assure you, this wasn’t a figment of my imagination or clairvoyance. There he stood before me: clad in a white dhoti, round spectacles perched on his nose, a simple stick in hand, and a white cloth draped over his body, all crowned with a serene smile.
I hesitantly addressed him, “Bapu, are you real?” His response was both profound and enigmatic: “It is up to you to decide. There is nothing absolute in this world.” His words echoed with intensity and philosophy, leaving me slightly awestruck.
Our conversation unfolded like this:
Me: Bapu, I have a few things to share. Recently, I watched a Marathi play about Nathuram Godse, the man who took your life. While his actions were unjustifiable, some of his thoughts intrigued me. I respect your immense contributions to our nation, but Nathuram deserves a fair hearing—not just blind hatred. Am I being hypocritical?
Gandhi: Every human deserves the right to justify themselves. We all form judgments, and it’s natural to respect some of his thoughts. You needn’t agree with all my principles. Nathuram ended my physical existence with those three shots, but my thoughts and principles live on—in you, perhaps. Remember, my murder by Nathuram holds little importance now. To truly understand our lives, you must delve deeper than what history presents.
Me: True. Ideological differences persist, and it’s up to us how deeply we explore. In your autobiography, there’s a moment when you returned to South Africa from India, and a violent mob attacked you. You faced a near-death experience. What went through your mind during that turmoil? How did you cope emotionally when so many were against you?
Gandhi: Yes, it was a challenging situation. My family stood by me, but a handful of friends saved us from the angry crowd. Gratitude fills my heart for them. Amidst the opposition, I held steadfast to my righteousness—even if I stood in the minority. That unwavering belief sustained me. Remember, my dear friend, it’s this resilience that propels you forward.
So there we were, conversing across time and space, bridging the gap between past and present. Gandhi’s legacy endures, not just in history books, but within the hearts of those who seek truth and justice.
BY-
NAME-NITESH KUMAR
ROLL NO.-21/1569
Section:-Z-2
course :- BA program (History+ Political science)
Subject :- Media and communication skills.