Understanding Gandhi: Gandhians in Conversation with Fred J Blum

by Usha Thakkar, Jayshree Mehta

Understanding Gandhi is a collection of interviews conducted by Fr d J. Blum (1914–1990),of six of Mahatma Gandhi′s closest associates―J.B. Kriplani, Raihana Tyabji, Dada Dharmadhikari, Sushila Nayar, Jhaver Patel and Sucheta Kripalani. The interviewees reflect on Gandhi′s ideas in the light of changes that took place in India after Independence. The book provides glimpses of Gandhi′s ideas and working relationship with his colleagues who came from a wide range of backgrounds, professions and geographical regions. It also brings out the thoughts of Gandhi and his followers on several important issues such as Satyagraha, non-violence, Brahmacharya, spirituality, and fasting. This blend of an intimate knowledge of Gandhi and the reflective hindsight gives the book a unique vantage point that promotes a holistic understanding of Gandhian thought and philosophy.

572 pages, Paperback

First published February 2, 2011

Reviews

[Riya Joshi · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's really enlightening!

[Shahenshah · Rating 4 out of 5]

The conversations, a bit imprudently, depend upon melodramatically or jadedly declared ideologies, so as to enshrine the 'Idea' that is the Mahatma. The book, nevertheless, sheds light upon the cultural evolution of India, which heralded her Independency, and whose veritable mascot was the Mahatma himself.