Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi’s return to India in 1915 marked a pivotal moment in the nation’s struggle for independence. Having honed his philosophy of Satyagraha in South Africa, he embarked on a journey to understand the socio-political landscape of his homeland. The period from 1915 to 1919 served as a crucible, where Gandhi tested and refined his methods, laying the foundation for his leadership in the Indian freedom movement.  

1. Gandhi’s Return (1915): A New Phase Begins

• Context: After spending over two decades in South Africa, fighting against racial discrimination, Gandhi returned to India at the behest of Gopal Krishna Gokhale, his political mentor.  
• Significance:
  • This marked the beginning of Gandhi’s direct involvement in Indian politics.
  • His experiences in South Africa, particularly his successful use of Satyagraha, provided a unique perspective and method of resistance.  
  • Gokhale advised Gandhi to travel across India to understand the country’s diverse realities before entering active politics. This period of observation was crucial in shaping Gandhi’s understanding of India’s social and economic problems.  
  • Gandhi joined the Indian National Congress but initially remained observing the political climate.

2. Champaran Satyagraha (1917): The First Experiment in India  

• Context: Indigo planters in Champaran, Bihar, subjected farmers to oppressive practices, forcing them to cultivate indigo and pay exorbitant rents.  
• Significance:
  • This was Gandhi’s first Satyagraha in India, demonstrating the practical application of his philosophy on Indian soil.  
  • He conducted a thorough investigation into the farmers’ grievances, defying British authorities who initially tried to obstruct him.
  • The success of the Champaran Satyagraha established Gandhi’s reputation as a leader capable of mobilizing the masses and challenging British authority.  
  • The British government formed a committee to investigate the situation, and Gandhi was made a member. The committee’s recommendations led to the abolition of the exploitative indigo system, a major victory for the farmers.  
  • It demonstrated the power of non-violent resistance in achieving tangible results.  

3. Kheda Satyagraha (1918): Addressing Agrarian Distress

• Context: Farmers in the Kheda district of Gujarat faced severe crop failure due to floods, leading to demands for the suspension of revenue collection.  
• Significance:
  • Gandhi organized the Kheda Satyagraha to support the farmers’ demands, advocating for the principles of truth and non-violence.  
  • He mobilized farmers and encouraged them to withhold revenue payments until their demands were met.  
  • This movement further solidified Gandhi’s connection with the rural masses and his understanding of agrarian issues.  
  • The government eventually conceded to some of the farmers’ demands, suspending revenue collection for the affected year.
  • This Satyagraha highlighted the importance of addressing the economic grievances of the peasantry.  

4. Ahmedabad Mill Strike (1918): Labor Rights and Arbitration

• Context: Mill workers in Ahmedabad demanded a wage hike due to rising inflation.  
• Significance:
  • Gandhi intervened in the dispute, advocating for the workers’ rights and promoting the concept of arbitration.  
  • He undertook a fast to support the workers’ demands, emphasizing the moral dimension of the struggle.  
  • This strike demonstrated Gandhi’s commitment to labour rights and his ability to mediate between conflicting interests.
  • The mill owners eventually agreed to a wage increase, marking a victory for the workers.  
  • This event showcased Gandhi’s ability to use his methods in an industrial setting.

5. Rowlatt Act (1919): Seeds of Nationwide Discontent  

• Context: The British government enacted the Rowlatt Act, which allowed for the detention of political prisoners without trial.  
• Significance:
  • Gandhi vehemently opposed the Rowlatt Act, viewing it as an attack on civil liberties.  
  • He called for a nationwide Satyagraha, marking the beginning of his mass mobilization against British rule.
  • This act unified a large portion of the Indian population against the British rule.
  • The Rowlatt Satyagraha, although ultimately suppressed, laid the groundwork for future mass movements.  

6. Jallianwala Bagh Massacre (1919): A Turning Point  

• Context: On April 13, 1919, General Dyer ordered his troops to fire on unarmed civilians gathered at Jallianwala Bagh in Amritsar, resulting in the massacre of hundreds of people.  
• Significance:
  • The Jallianwala Bagh Massacre shocked the nation and deepened anti-British sentiment.  
  • It exposed the brutal face of British imperialism and galvanized support for the independence movement.
  • Gandhi’s faith in the British sense of justice was shattered, and he began to advocate for complete independence.
  • This event catalyzed Gandhi’s non-cooperation movement.  
  • The event showed the true nature of the British Raj, and how far they were willing to go to maintain control.

Conclusion:

The period from 1915 to 1919 was instrumental in shaping Gandhi’s leadership and the course of the Indian freedom struggle. Through his early Satyagrahas, he demonstrated the power of non-violent resistance and established himself as a leader capable of mobilizing the masses. The Rowlatt Act and the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre further solidified his resolve and paved the way for future mass movements, ultimately leading to India’s independence. For UPSC aspirants, understanding this period is crucial for grasping the evolution of Gandhi’s philosophy and its impact on the Indian national movement.   Sources and related content