Gandhi, a sublime failure

by S.S. Gill

A perceptive new study of Gandhi's life and meaning. Respectful, yet addresses some of Gandhi's complexities and evaluates the implications of policies and commitments.

Genres: History

268 pages, Hardcover

First published December 30, 2002

Reviews

[Shafique · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book is an irreverent, cheeky account of Mr. Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi’s life. On several counts the book is controversial, and deduces debatable conclusions. But in essence it offers an analysis which history books don’t. It is more than mere reporting history, its sheer analysis, and reasoning. This book takes into account several initiatives taken by Gandhi during India’s struggle for Independence. Satyagraha, Non-Cooperation Movement, Civil Disobedience Movement, Khilafat Movement, Quit India Movement, Dandi March etcetera. Impact of all these movements, their consequences occupy a large portion of the book.
Life of Gandhi has been exemplary, he has succeeded personally but politically he has faltered many times. He was a great leader but a less visionary, mixed politics with religion, provided solutions without rationale only through his hunch, belief. Several instances of his short-sightedness, lack of reason, more of gut-feeling, dominating style of functioning are included in the book.
It is a book every Indian should read, this is not to induce disrespect for an honourable man but to know him better. Although at times he might seem too irrational, but in hindsight he brought the diverse people of this nation together. He said “My life is my message, as a matter of fact my writings should be cremated with my body.”