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Mahatma Gandhi Autobiography: The Story Of My Experiments With Truth
This unusual autobiography “The Story of My Experiments with Truth”, is a window to the workings of Mahatma Gandhi’s mind – a window to the emotions of his heart – a window to understanding what drove this seemingly ordinary man to the heights of being the father of a nation – India.
Starting with his days as a boy, Gandhi takes one through his trials and turmoils and situations that moulded his philosophy of life – going through child marriage, his studies in England, practicing Law in South Africa – and his Satyagraha there – to the early beginnings of the Independence movement in India.
He did not aim to write an autobiography but rather share the experience of his various experiments with truth to arrive at what he perceived as Absolute Truth – the ideal of his struggle against racism, violence and colonialism.
Starting with his days as a boy, Gandhi takes one through his trials and turmoils and situations that moulded his philosophy of life – going through child marriage, his studies in England, practicing Law in South Africa – and his Satyagraha there – to the early beginnings of the Independence movement in India.
He did not aim to write an autobiography but rather share the experience of his various experiments with truth to arrive at what he perceived as Absolute Truth – the ideal of his struggle against racism, violence and colonialism.
649 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 18, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
October 19, 2022
"Saints should always be presumed guilty until proven innocent."---George Orwell on Mahatma Gandhi
"If Gandhi had to face off against the French he would have gone to meet his god a long time ago".---Ho Chi Minh
When the movie GANDHI won the Academy Award for Best Picture back in the 1980s Hollywood liberals joked that it was because he represented everything everyone in Hollywood wanted to be, "thin, tanned, and moral". Ironically, and perhaps also inevitably, it was left up to American conservatives, from NATIONAL REVIEW to COMMENTARY magazines, to point out that the Gandhi up on the screen was not the real deal but the creation of a white British liberal, Richard Attenborough. There are statues of Gandhi from Central Park in New York to Havana. It is hard to think of another major political figure of the twentieth century who was so widely venerated and ignored, sometimes at the same time, or else posthumously. Albert Schweitzer, for example, dismissed him as "naive". STORY OF MY EXPERIMENTS WITH TRUTH is Gandhi's spiritual autobiography, yet unlike THE CONFESSIONS of St. Augustine, for example, Gandhi is aware that all of his stories and moral lessons will have a political impact on the reader. And, there's the rub. There is no doubt that Gandhi was a highly moral person with a sincere dedication to achieve justice through non-violent means. What these pages show is that the Great Soul also possessed a profound ignorance of how both evil and injustice had evolved since his birth in 1869, or that as the Black militant Stokely Carmichael once said, "If you're going to practice non-violence you better make damn sure first your enemy has a conscience". Gandhi's "medievalism" as Pandit Nehru called it, also shines through here. He debates with himself whether to take out life insurance to protect his family (final answer: no) and should he inject his sick son with modern medicine. Then there's Gandhi's vow of celibacy, on which Mrs. Gandhi was not consulted. Modern India, and indeed the modern world, could not function on Gandhian principles. His great contribution, eloquently documented in these pages, was to show that under limited circumstances, taking into account time and territory, pacifism was the best way to do battle with oppression. Extrapolating from that into a worldly philosophy of universal application has proved perilous to many of the oppressed.
"If Gandhi had to face off against the French he would have gone to meet his god a long time ago".---Ho Chi Minh
When the movie GANDHI won the Academy Award for Best Picture back in the 1980s Hollywood liberals joked that it was because he represented everything everyone in Hollywood wanted to be, "thin, tanned, and moral". Ironically, and perhaps also inevitably, it was left up to American conservatives, from NATIONAL REVIEW to COMMENTARY magazines, to point out that the Gandhi up on the screen was not the real deal but the creation of a white British liberal, Richard Attenborough. There are statues of Gandhi from Central Park in New York to Havana. It is hard to think of another major political figure of the twentieth century who was so widely venerated and ignored, sometimes at the same time, or else posthumously. Albert Schweitzer, for example, dismissed him as "naive". STORY OF MY EXPERIMENTS WITH TRUTH is Gandhi's spiritual autobiography, yet unlike THE CONFESSIONS of St. Augustine, for example, Gandhi is aware that all of his stories and moral lessons will have a political impact on the reader. And, there's the rub. There is no doubt that Gandhi was a highly moral person with a sincere dedication to achieve justice through non-violent means. What these pages show is that the Great Soul also possessed a profound ignorance of how both evil and injustice had evolved since his birth in 1869, or that as the Black militant Stokely Carmichael once said, "If you're going to practice non-violence you better make damn sure first your enemy has a conscience". Gandhi's "medievalism" as Pandit Nehru called it, also shines through here. He debates with himself whether to take out life insurance to protect his family (final answer: no) and should he inject his sick son with modern medicine. Then there's Gandhi's vow of celibacy, on which Mrs. Gandhi was not consulted. Modern India, and indeed the modern world, could not function on Gandhian principles. His great contribution, eloquently documented in these pages, was to show that under limited circumstances, taking into account time and territory, pacifism was the best way to do battle with oppression. Extrapolating from that into a worldly philosophy of universal application has proved perilous to many of the oppressed.
October 5, 2021
I enjoyed every page reading Gandhi's thoughts and ideas and his perception of the world and humanity. It was both inspiring and humbling. After reading this book, I have learnt just how unique and special Gandhi's mind was. I don't agree entirely with Gandhi spiritually but this book is a fantastic read. I have definitely picked up important lessons and teachings in this book that I can apply practically to my own life and mindset.
November 22, 2022
Nice book all read the book fulAn wonderful book by mk Gandhi An immortal book and a legacy for ages to come. This book is an autobiography of Gandhi. It is a detailed account of Gandhi’s consisting of Gandhi’s self penned essays (105 essays in all) on his experiments and covers all aspects of the Mahatma’s spiritual life. This Autobiography is divided in five parts starting from his childhood days, his experience in South Africa where he experimented with the powerful weapon of Satyagraha and his transformation from Mohan to Mahatma, his various experiments on fundamental principles of Truth and God, till the year 1921, after which his life was so public that he felt there was hardly anything to write about. Gandhi’s Non-violent struggle in South Africa and India had already brought him to such a level of notoriety, adulation and controversy that when asked to write an autobiography mid way through his career, he took it as an opportunity to explain himself. Accepting his status as a great innovator in the struggle against racism, violence and colonialism, Gandhi felt that his ideas needed deeper understanding. Gandhi explains that he was after truth rooted in devotion to God and attributed the turning point, success and challenges in his life to the will of God. Gandhi says that his attempt to get closer to this divine power led him seek purity through simple living, dietary practices (he called himself a fruitarian), celibacy and ahimsa- a life without violence. It is in this sense that he calls his book “The Story of My Experiments with Truth”, offering it also as a reference for those who would follow his footsteps. Gandhi’s Autobiography is one of the best sellers and is translated in nearly all languages of the world. Perhaps never before on so grand scale has any man succeeded in shaping the course of history while using the weapon of Peace – Ahimsa (Non-violence). To many it will have the value of a new Bible or a new Gita; for here are words that have come out from the depth of truth, here is tireless striving that stretches its arms towards perfection
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2023
My Experiments With Truth is nothing short of an experience - experience of knowing the father of the nation in a way that one would not even have thought of. You see, our minds are so adept at filling gaps that just with a limited amount of information, we end up subconsciously erecting the whole personality of a human being. Especially of figures that have shot to prominence. We attribute absolute glory to the noble among these, and pure disgust to the wicked. Hence, we snatch the human aspect from both.
My Experiments is an absolute shock to anyone who has considered Gandhiji a saintly figure from the time he was born. Now, now, you might be thinking - Oh my God! Was Gandhi evil in his growing years? And there I catch you! Generally, we presume the 'other' side of "saintly" to be sinister only. But can it not be mischievous, easily tempted, adamant and susceptible to extremism?
The Gandhi that emerges from My Experiments With Truth is very human and relatable, at least till his mid 20-s. This Gandhi is socially awkward, keeps secrets from his family, steals petty items, feels like an imposter, exercises authority upon his wife and even thinks of suicide (in zest) at one point during his teenage years. This Gandhi is full of reformist zeal. This Gandhi is unaware of political motivations, is much influenced by British culture, and fears not being able to make it in the practical world.
...I was a coward. I used to be haunted by the fear of thieves, ghosts and serpents. Darkness was a terror to me... How could I disclose my fears to my wife. She could go out anywhere in the dark.
I have never forgiven myself the violence of which I have been guilty in often having pained my wife by acting on his (friend's) information.
Expenses were mounting up every month. To have a barrister's board outside the house, while still preparing for the barrister's profession inside, was a thing to which I could not reconcile myself. ... I had not the courage to conduct a case. I was helpless beyond words, even as the bride come fresh to her father-in-law's house!
However, what differentiates Gandhiji from many of us is his tendency to not take injustice and oppression lightly. He feels anger and demands redressal for personal as well as collective injustices, one after another. It is not so much as love for his country as love for his countrymen that leads him to fight for Swaraj. Surprisingly, Gandhiji learns quite late in his life that the British rule, rather than a blessing, was actually a menace for all the colonized peoples.
There are several qualities, that make Gandhi a sincere soul [Mahatma] and an independent thinker. One of those is this that he never coveted for political titles or wealth. Instead, he gave away to a trust whatever was given to his and his family as gifts. Starting as an Indian "gentleman", Gandhiji was initially drawn to British way of dressing and mannerisms. But he, due to his ideals and observation, later adopted simplicity in all hidden as well as visible ways of life. Another rare quality of his was that he was an ardent advocate of religious tolerance for peaceful co-existence of people of different faiths. His unceasing search for truth is what made him open-minded and accepting of people of different backgrounds.
Among them was four or five Musalmans. I always helped and encouraged them in keeping all their religious observances. I took care to see that they offered their daily namaz. There were Christian and Parsi youngsters too, whom I considered my duty to encourage to follow their respective religious observances.
I never missed a single opportunity to remove obstacles in the way of unity.
My Experiments With Truth was originally written in Gujarati, and later translated in English by Mahadev Desai. Structurally speaking, it is divided into 5 parts, each of which is composed of several short chapters. The book, as expected, begins with a description of childhood tales and familial history of Gandhi and ends in late 1920s.
Just want to conclude by saying that if you too have felt swayed in recent times by widely differing views regarding Gandhiji's personality, this book can be the most authentic start to develop an accurate and comprehensive understanding of his nature and behavior.
Modern Indians - read it for yourself and then decide who Gandhi was!
My Experiments is an absolute shock to anyone who has considered Gandhiji a saintly figure from the time he was born. Now, now, you might be thinking - Oh my God! Was Gandhi evil in his growing years? And there I catch you! Generally, we presume the 'other' side of "saintly" to be sinister only. But can it not be mischievous, easily tempted, adamant and susceptible to extremism?
The Gandhi that emerges from My Experiments With Truth is very human and relatable, at least till his mid 20-s. This Gandhi is socially awkward, keeps secrets from his family, steals petty items, feels like an imposter, exercises authority upon his wife and even thinks of suicide (in zest) at one point during his teenage years. This Gandhi is full of reformist zeal. This Gandhi is unaware of political motivations, is much influenced by British culture, and fears not being able to make it in the practical world.
...I was a coward. I used to be haunted by the fear of thieves, ghosts and serpents. Darkness was a terror to me... How could I disclose my fears to my wife. She could go out anywhere in the dark.
I have never forgiven myself the violence of which I have been guilty in often having pained my wife by acting on his (friend's) information.
Expenses were mounting up every month. To have a barrister's board outside the house, while still preparing for the barrister's profession inside, was a thing to which I could not reconcile myself. ... I had not the courage to conduct a case. I was helpless beyond words, even as the bride come fresh to her father-in-law's house!
However, what differentiates Gandhiji from many of us is his tendency to not take injustice and oppression lightly. He feels anger and demands redressal for personal as well as collective injustices, one after another. It is not so much as love for his country as love for his countrymen that leads him to fight for Swaraj. Surprisingly, Gandhiji learns quite late in his life that the British rule, rather than a blessing, was actually a menace for all the colonized peoples.
There are several qualities, that make Gandhi a sincere soul [Mahatma] and an independent thinker. One of those is this that he never coveted for political titles or wealth. Instead, he gave away to a trust whatever was given to his and his family as gifts. Starting as an Indian "gentleman", Gandhiji was initially drawn to British way of dressing and mannerisms. But he, due to his ideals and observation, later adopted simplicity in all hidden as well as visible ways of life. Another rare quality of his was that he was an ardent advocate of religious tolerance for peaceful co-existence of people of different faiths. His unceasing search for truth is what made him open-minded and accepting of people of different backgrounds.
Among them was four or five Musalmans. I always helped and encouraged them in keeping all their religious observances. I took care to see that they offered their daily namaz. There were Christian and Parsi youngsters too, whom I considered my duty to encourage to follow their respective religious observances.
I never missed a single opportunity to remove obstacles in the way of unity.
My Experiments With Truth was originally written in Gujarati, and later translated in English by Mahadev Desai. Structurally speaking, it is divided into 5 parts, each of which is composed of several short chapters. The book, as expected, begins with a description of childhood tales and familial history of Gandhi and ends in late 1920s.
Just want to conclude by saying that if you too have felt swayed in recent times by widely differing views regarding Gandhiji's personality, this book can be the most authentic start to develop an accurate and comprehensive understanding of his nature and behavior.
Modern Indians - read it for yourself and then decide who Gandhi was!
May 7, 2024
It reminded me of Mark Twain without the Twain.. lol Meaning, Simple observations in truth but Twain is cheeky about it. Anyhow I knew going into it that MLK based his idea's on Non-violent resistance in order to bring social change, however I had no idea that it was through collaboration with muslims and the non-cooperation of purchasing foreign cloth, and creating self succient methods through the textile industry to purchase Indian Cotton, carded and spun into thread and woven into cloth in order to bring self reliance and independence to India.... What a story in the end! Did you know all that?!?! Textiles as a social movement!!! Ya know I think the universe is telling me something 😀 He brought the Textiles industry together Hindu’s and Muslims to have a collective conscious as Indians, a solidified Nationality for Independence.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 11, 2023
Very honest
August 15, 2026
I can't rate this book. Disregard the rating. History should not be rated, it should be understood.
Mahatma gandhi has been such an integral part of my childhood, education and way of life. Growing up in India, the gandhian way formed a core foundation of my approach to life and being truthful. However everything I knew about gandhi had been told to me and I always wanted to hear from him directly.
And now that I got to read his own words I maybe understand him better. And my reverence has grown.
Gandhi is not perfect, the way he relates to his wife, the way he finds appreciation in the British rule and the way he has a militant focus on his way of life is frustrating and disappointing.
But I think I understand bapu now. He viewed this world and India in a way that no one else has. He saw the best in our country and always encouraged people to bring that part out even when it felt hard to do so. Gandhi did preach love, non violence and truth. Satyagraha isn't just a form of protest, it is a way of life. And I almost feel a little enlightened because I finally understand the philosophy/truth behind a practice that has governed my life. The man deserves the criticisms he gets and I think had he been alive he'd have welcomed them. But the man also deserves the praise he gets. It's interesting how his autobiography focuses on vegetarianism well veganism. It focuses on thought exchanges with the British, with other political leaders and with the faith of Hinduism. He accepted the systems as they were with an iron will to change and challenge them from within the confines of those systems. That's such an impossible form of protest and yet he was successful.
He talks about the infallibility of truth and how that will eventually win against any kind of system that works against you. It's such a profound yet simple approach to life that too in a time where the entire world feels so oppressive.
I am quite enchanted by him even though I went in with a lot of skepticism. I understand why he is considered the father of the nation. I admire his will, his strength and his version of the truth. I wished he had challenged the system more than work within it especially in the ways that patriarchy, untouchability and fanaticism of religion propagates itself.
And his approach to non-cooperation and swaraj (self rule) are inspirational. These ideas, his ideas, his laser focus on truth, ahimsa and swaraj are timeless. It's poetic to finish this book on India's Independence day. I am glad I read it. I did cringe in parts, but I also found myself lost in the stories and the ideas. Simple yet effective.
Mahatma gandhi has been such an integral part of my childhood, education and way of life. Growing up in India, the gandhian way formed a core foundation of my approach to life and being truthful. However everything I knew about gandhi had been told to me and I always wanted to hear from him directly.
And now that I got to read his own words I maybe understand him better. And my reverence has grown.
Gandhi is not perfect, the way he relates to his wife, the way he finds appreciation in the British rule and the way he has a militant focus on his way of life is frustrating and disappointing.
But I think I understand bapu now. He viewed this world and India in a way that no one else has. He saw the best in our country and always encouraged people to bring that part out even when it felt hard to do so. Gandhi did preach love, non violence and truth. Satyagraha isn't just a form of protest, it is a way of life. And I almost feel a little enlightened because I finally understand the philosophy/truth behind a practice that has governed my life. The man deserves the criticisms he gets and I think had he been alive he'd have welcomed them. But the man also deserves the praise he gets. It's interesting how his autobiography focuses on vegetarianism well veganism. It focuses on thought exchanges with the British, with other political leaders and with the faith of Hinduism. He accepted the systems as they were with an iron will to change and challenge them from within the confines of those systems. That's such an impossible form of protest and yet he was successful.
He talks about the infallibility of truth and how that will eventually win against any kind of system that works against you. It's such a profound yet simple approach to life that too in a time where the entire world feels so oppressive.
I am quite enchanted by him even though I went in with a lot of skepticism. I understand why he is considered the father of the nation. I admire his will, his strength and his version of the truth. I wished he had challenged the system more than work within it especially in the ways that patriarchy, untouchability and fanaticism of religion propagates itself.
And his approach to non-cooperation and swaraj (self rule) are inspirational. These ideas, his ideas, his laser focus on truth, ahimsa and swaraj are timeless. It's poetic to finish this book on India's Independence day. I am glad I read it. I did cringe in parts, but I also found myself lost in the stories and the ideas. Simple yet effective.
July 31, 2024
After reading Mandela's autobiography, I wanted to know more about another extraordinary man from his own story.
I was specially interested in his political perspective as a key role in the independence and self governance of the former British Raj.
However I found a deeply spiritual journey to find God and the Truth, mostly from self-restraint and deep understanding of Hinduism. There are hundreds of pages dedicated to vegan diet, hygiene, natural health treatments, chastity and overall what he calls experiments with Truth.
Based on his own words, he got into politics as a natural extension of his own spirituality.
What I like the most of the book is his honesty to reflect on how he evolved from a shy lawyer in England and later in South Africa towards that man that wanted Muslim and Hindu unity to form a new country, removing the caste differences from a position of non violence. Specially in the last part of his life, more than anything he was focused on solving the sanitation problems in India and a way out of the poverty as the huge problem of the country he loved. The book was written in 1928, therefore the independence was still a dream.
It was really interesting to see he had huge respect and curiosity for other cultures. Gandhi had many female and male friends from many countries and religions during his life.
I was specially interested in his political perspective as a key role in the independence and self governance of the former British Raj.
However I found a deeply spiritual journey to find God and the Truth, mostly from self-restraint and deep understanding of Hinduism. There are hundreds of pages dedicated to vegan diet, hygiene, natural health treatments, chastity and overall what he calls experiments with Truth.
Based on his own words, he got into politics as a natural extension of his own spirituality.
What I like the most of the book is his honesty to reflect on how he evolved from a shy lawyer in England and later in South Africa towards that man that wanted Muslim and Hindu unity to form a new country, removing the caste differences from a position of non violence. Specially in the last part of his life, more than anything he was focused on solving the sanitation problems in India and a way out of the poverty as the huge problem of the country he loved. The book was written in 1928, therefore the independence was still a dream.
It was really interesting to see he had huge respect and curiosity for other cultures. Gandhi had many female and male friends from many countries and religions during his life.
October 26, 2026
My Review of My Experiments with Truth by Mahatma Gandhi
Some books are more than just stories. They become part of your life, because somewhere within their pages, you find a little bit of yourself.
My Experiments with Truth, the autobiography of Mahatma Gandhi, was the second book I ever read, and it has stayed with me in a way that is difficult to put into words. I have always felt a special connection to this book, not simply because of who Gandhi was, but because of what his life represents. When I read about his struggles, his determination, and the obstacles he faced, I found myself reflecting on my own life and the challenges I had to overcome.
On the surface, Gandhi’s struggles and mine might seem worlds apart. He was discriminated against because of his race, the colour of his skin, and his religion. My own struggles were different. I have dyslexia, a learning disability that made things many people take for granted far more difficult for me. Reading, learning, and finding my way through a world that often seemed designed for everyone but me was not always easy. There were times when I felt misunderstood, judged, or limited by something that other people could not see or fully appreciate.
But I believe there is a common thread running through both our experiences. Discrimination and adversity can take many forms, and although our circumstances were different, we both had to find a way to face the difficulties placed before us. We both had to discover our own strength, learn to persevere, and refuse to allow our circumstances to define who we were or what we might achieve.
For Gandhi, the struggle was against the injustice of a society that judged people by their race, colour, and religion rather than their humanity. For me, it was about overcoming the barriers associated with dyslexia and learning to believe in myself, even when things did not come easily. Neither journey was without its difficulties, but both taught me something important about the human spirit: that adversity does not have to defeat us. Sometimes, it can help us discover strengths we never knew we possessed.
What I admire about Gandhi is that he did not present himself as a perfect man. Through his autobiography, he allowed readers to see his doubts, his mistakes, his weaknesses, and the lessons he learned along the way. He understood that becoming a better person was a lifelong process, one that required honesty, courage, and a willingness to look inward. To me, that is what makes this book so powerful. It is not simply the story of a man who became a great historical figure; it is the story of a human being who continued to question himself, learn from his experiences, and strive to live according to his beliefs.
That message resonates deeply with me. Having dyslexia has taught me that people do not all learn in the same way, and that difficulty should never be mistaken for a lack of intelligence, ability, or determination. Sometimes, we simply have to find a different path to reach the same destination. There is no shame in that. In fact, I believe there is considerable courage in continuing to try when the odds seem stacked against you.
Perhaps that is why this book has always meant so much to me. Although Gandhi and I lived in different worlds and faced very different challenges, I recognise something of myself in his determination to keep going. His story reminds me that we should never judge another person by the obstacles they face, but rather by how they respond to them.
I also believe that we can learn something from the way Gandhi approached truth, forgiveness, and non-violence. He showed that strength does not always have to be loud or aggressive. Sometimes, the greatest strength lies in standing firm in your convictions, treating others with dignity, and refusing to let bitterness consume you. These are lessons that remain just as relevant today as they were during his lifetime.
Looking back, I am proud that this was the second book I ever read. For someone with dyslexia, reading has not always been an easy or straightforward experience, which makes the achievement particularly meaningful to me. Finishing a book is one thing, but finding a book that speaks to your own life, gives you something to think about, and stays with you long after you have put it down is something quite different.
Gandhi’s autobiography did that for me. It helped me understand that our struggles do not have to be identical for us to recognise one another’s humanity. We may experience prejudice in different ways, encounter different barriers, and walk very different paths, but the feelings of frustration, isolation, determination, and hope can be remarkably similar.
I love this book because, at its heart, it is about the journey of a human being trying to make sense of himself and the world around him. It reminds me that our past does not have to dictate our future, that mistakes can become lessons, and that the difficulties we encounter can become part of the strength we carry forward.
For me, My Experiments with Truth is much more than an autobiography. It is a reminder that no matter where we come from, what we look like, how we learn, or what adversity we face, we all deserve the opportunity to find our place in the world.
Gandhi overcame extraordinary obstacles in his fight against injustice. I have faced my own challenges in learning to live with dyslexia and refusing to let it hold me back. Our stories are different, but in our own ways, we have both had to confront adversity and find the courage to move beyond it.
And that is why this book will always hold a special place in my heart. It was only the second book I ever read, but the lessons it gave me have reached far beyond its pages.
Sometimes, the books that change us the most are not the ones that simply teach us about someone else. They are the ones that help us understand ourselves a little better.
That is what Gandhi’s story did for me, and it is why I will always be grateful to have read it.
Some books are more than just stories. They become part of your life, because somewhere within their pages, you find a little bit of yourself.
My Experiments with Truth, the autobiography of Mahatma Gandhi, was the second book I ever read, and it has stayed with me in a way that is difficult to put into words. I have always felt a special connection to this book, not simply because of who Gandhi was, but because of what his life represents. When I read about his struggles, his determination, and the obstacles he faced, I found myself reflecting on my own life and the challenges I had to overcome.
On the surface, Gandhi’s struggles and mine might seem worlds apart. He was discriminated against because of his race, the colour of his skin, and his religion. My own struggles were different. I have dyslexia, a learning disability that made things many people take for granted far more difficult for me. Reading, learning, and finding my way through a world that often seemed designed for everyone but me was not always easy. There were times when I felt misunderstood, judged, or limited by something that other people could not see or fully appreciate.
But I believe there is a common thread running through both our experiences. Discrimination and adversity can take many forms, and although our circumstances were different, we both had to find a way to face the difficulties placed before us. We both had to discover our own strength, learn to persevere, and refuse to allow our circumstances to define who we were or what we might achieve.
For Gandhi, the struggle was against the injustice of a society that judged people by their race, colour, and religion rather than their humanity. For me, it was about overcoming the barriers associated with dyslexia and learning to believe in myself, even when things did not come easily. Neither journey was without its difficulties, but both taught me something important about the human spirit: that adversity does not have to defeat us. Sometimes, it can help us discover strengths we never knew we possessed.
What I admire about Gandhi is that he did not present himself as a perfect man. Through his autobiography, he allowed readers to see his doubts, his mistakes, his weaknesses, and the lessons he learned along the way. He understood that becoming a better person was a lifelong process, one that required honesty, courage, and a willingness to look inward. To me, that is what makes this book so powerful. It is not simply the story of a man who became a great historical figure; it is the story of a human being who continued to question himself, learn from his experiences, and strive to live according to his beliefs.
That message resonates deeply with me. Having dyslexia has taught me that people do not all learn in the same way, and that difficulty should never be mistaken for a lack of intelligence, ability, or determination. Sometimes, we simply have to find a different path to reach the same destination. There is no shame in that. In fact, I believe there is considerable courage in continuing to try when the odds seem stacked against you.
Perhaps that is why this book has always meant so much to me. Although Gandhi and I lived in different worlds and faced very different challenges, I recognise something of myself in his determination to keep going. His story reminds me that we should never judge another person by the obstacles they face, but rather by how they respond to them.
I also believe that we can learn something from the way Gandhi approached truth, forgiveness, and non-violence. He showed that strength does not always have to be loud or aggressive. Sometimes, the greatest strength lies in standing firm in your convictions, treating others with dignity, and refusing to let bitterness consume you. These are lessons that remain just as relevant today as they were during his lifetime.
Looking back, I am proud that this was the second book I ever read. For someone with dyslexia, reading has not always been an easy or straightforward experience, which makes the achievement particularly meaningful to me. Finishing a book is one thing, but finding a book that speaks to your own life, gives you something to think about, and stays with you long after you have put it down is something quite different.
Gandhi’s autobiography did that for me. It helped me understand that our struggles do not have to be identical for us to recognise one another’s humanity. We may experience prejudice in different ways, encounter different barriers, and walk very different paths, but the feelings of frustration, isolation, determination, and hope can be remarkably similar.
I love this book because, at its heart, it is about the journey of a human being trying to make sense of himself and the world around him. It reminds me that our past does not have to dictate our future, that mistakes can become lessons, and that the difficulties we encounter can become part of the strength we carry forward.
For me, My Experiments with Truth is much more than an autobiography. It is a reminder that no matter where we come from, what we look like, how we learn, or what adversity we face, we all deserve the opportunity to find our place in the world.
Gandhi overcame extraordinary obstacles in his fight against injustice. I have faced my own challenges in learning to live with dyslexia and refusing to let it hold me back. Our stories are different, but in our own ways, we have both had to confront adversity and find the courage to move beyond it.
And that is why this book will always hold a special place in my heart. It was only the second book I ever read, but the lessons it gave me have reached far beyond its pages.
Sometimes, the books that change us the most are not the ones that simply teach us about someone else. They are the ones that help us understand ourselves a little better.
That is what Gandhi’s story did for me, and it is why I will always be grateful to have read it.
May 20, 2022
Must Read!
A must read for every Indian, of course every human!!
Sure it will impact your life in a good way!!
Especially a treat for history lovers!!
A must read for every Indian, of course every human!!
Sure it will impact your life in a good way!!
Especially a treat for history lovers!!
December 6, 2023
It is a bad book. Even though Gandhi warns beforehand that this book is not going to be completely autobiographical or chronological, the structure of the book doesn't make sense.
The overall premise of the book is that he will do various experiments with his life to get near the truth. The thing is, what is this 'truth' exactly is something that is not properly addressed. It definitely is not 'God' or religion.
Throughout the whole book, we see Gandhi doing irrational, illogical, sometimes borderline unethical, experiments with himself and his family. He engages in hydropathy, ice treatment and all that non-sense, including completely weird dietic experiments. He often makes his innocent wife cry for no reason.
The chapters are strange - the heading and contents often do not match. It seems he had ADHD - he intended to talk about something but completely went off track throughout the chapter and then returned to the matter given in the title in the last paragraph or so.
In this book, we also see what the Right wing in India has been saying all along - he was a massive hypocrite. Despite practicing ahimsa (for whatever reasons), he had no problem participating in wars. In his defense, he gave arguments that makes no sense at all. He was obsessed with a concept of ahimsa that made no practical sense, he also disregarded Hindu scriptures - so what was the point of ahimsa? Was he truly a British agent? One can only speculate.
Most events are not properly described, so a reader has to be well-versed in history before reading this autobiography. There are many problems with the narrative as well. Why are certain people suddenly giving him so much undue attention? Why did he suddenly become so popular in South Africa? What exactly was his 'works' in India for which he was being constantly called from India during his stay in Africa? His autobiography is fishy to say the least.
One who knows his entire life will find it hard to digest his claims in this book. He says he loved his wife, despite killing her by refusing penicillin which he himself refused to take. He respects Shraddhananda in this book, whose murderer he called 'bhai'.
Regarding religion, his delusion and appeasement of Muslims is very clear. He berates Hindus for everything but Muslims? They are god to him. Not only that, he is not even a good or true Hindu nor does he want to be one. He speaks well of Gita and Ramanama, but doesn't really follow it. He doesn't follow any Hindu scripture. He constantly refers to 'God' in this book, but never to Sri Rama or Sri Krishna. He also omits an important story where a Muslim named Mir Alam in South Africa lynched him and broke his teeth. But of course, Hindus being dirty is more important for him to narrate. You will witness how modern left liberal political arguments come from in this book.
If everything he has written in this book is true and from his heart, he is a spiritual but weird person for sure. Otherwise, he is a complete fraud and a media personality, a useful idiot for the British.
The overall premise of the book is that he will do various experiments with his life to get near the truth. The thing is, what is this 'truth' exactly is something that is not properly addressed. It definitely is not 'God' or religion.
Throughout the whole book, we see Gandhi doing irrational, illogical, sometimes borderline unethical, experiments with himself and his family. He engages in hydropathy, ice treatment and all that non-sense, including completely weird dietic experiments. He often makes his innocent wife cry for no reason.
The chapters are strange - the heading and contents often do not match. It seems he had ADHD - he intended to talk about something but completely went off track throughout the chapter and then returned to the matter given in the title in the last paragraph or so.
In this book, we also see what the Right wing in India has been saying all along - he was a massive hypocrite. Despite practicing ahimsa (for whatever reasons), he had no problem participating in wars. In his defense, he gave arguments that makes no sense at all. He was obsessed with a concept of ahimsa that made no practical sense, he also disregarded Hindu scriptures - so what was the point of ahimsa? Was he truly a British agent? One can only speculate.
Most events are not properly described, so a reader has to be well-versed in history before reading this autobiography. There are many problems with the narrative as well. Why are certain people suddenly giving him so much undue attention? Why did he suddenly become so popular in South Africa? What exactly was his 'works' in India for which he was being constantly called from India during his stay in Africa? His autobiography is fishy to say the least.
One who knows his entire life will find it hard to digest his claims in this book. He says he loved his wife, despite killing her by refusing penicillin which he himself refused to take. He respects Shraddhananda in this book, whose murderer he called 'bhai'.
Regarding religion, his delusion and appeasement of Muslims is very clear. He berates Hindus for everything but Muslims? They are god to him. Not only that, he is not even a good or true Hindu nor does he want to be one. He speaks well of Gita and Ramanama, but doesn't really follow it. He doesn't follow any Hindu scripture. He constantly refers to 'God' in this book, but never to Sri Rama or Sri Krishna. He also omits an important story where a Muslim named Mir Alam in South Africa lynched him and broke his teeth. But of course, Hindus being dirty is more important for him to narrate. You will witness how modern left liberal political arguments come from in this book.
If everything he has written in this book is true and from his heart, he is a spiritual but weird person for sure. Otherwise, he is a complete fraud and a media personality, a useful idiot for the British.
March 6, 2023
A wonderful read that also explains much of the political history of the Durban Indian community in South Africa during 1894.
This description of Gandhi's boundless respect for a man of great intellect moved me. It was not inherent in his capacity for learning that he worshipped him, but in his seeking self-truth. This is what I cherish - not solely the intellect of established academia but the incredible skill of memory combined with a deeper wisdom and desire for inner enlightenment.
Mahātmā's (Gandhi's honorable title, meaning high-souled one) words...
"I envied his gift without, however, coming under its spell. The thing that did cast it's spell over me I came to know afterwards. This was his wide knowledge of the scriptures, his spotless character, and his burning passion for self-realization. I saw later that this was the only thing for which he lived. The following lines of Muktanand were always on his lips and engraved on the tablets of his heart:
'I shall think of myself blessed only when
I see Him
in every one of my daily acts;
Verily He is the thread,
which supports Muktanand's life.'
...His intellect compelled as great a regard from me as his moral earnestness, and deep down in me was the conviction that he would never willingly lead me astray and would always confide to me his innermost thoughts. In my moments of spiritual crisis, therefore, he was my refuge."
(Mohandas Gandhi in My Autobiography)
This description of Gandhi's boundless respect for a man of great intellect moved me. It was not inherent in his capacity for learning that he worshipped him, but in his seeking self-truth. This is what I cherish - not solely the intellect of established academia but the incredible skill of memory combined with a deeper wisdom and desire for inner enlightenment.
Mahātmā's (Gandhi's honorable title, meaning high-souled one) words...
"I envied his gift without, however, coming under its spell. The thing that did cast it's spell over me I came to know afterwards. This was his wide knowledge of the scriptures, his spotless character, and his burning passion for self-realization. I saw later that this was the only thing for which he lived. The following lines of Muktanand were always on his lips and engraved on the tablets of his heart:
'I shall think of myself blessed only when
I see Him
in every one of my daily acts;
Verily He is the thread,
which supports Muktanand's life.'
...His intellect compelled as great a regard from me as his moral earnestness, and deep down in me was the conviction that he would never willingly lead me astray and would always confide to me his innermost thoughts. In my moments of spiritual crisis, therefore, he was my refuge."
(Mohandas Gandhi in My Autobiography)
May 18, 2024
আহা! মাহাত্মা গান্ধীজীর আত্মজীবনী...
খুব সহজ ভাষায় তার জীবনকে তুলে ধরেছেন চোখের সামনে! পড়তে গিয়ে মনে হয় যেন তিনি পাশে বসে নিজে কথাগুলো বলছেন। বেশ বড়ো বই। পুরো বইকে মোট ১৬৮ টি ভিন্ন ভিন্ন সাবহ্যাডে ভাগ করেছেন। মোটামুটিভাবে, যে দিকগুলো বেশী গুরুত্ব পেয়েছে সেগুলো নিয়ে একটু একটু বলিঃ
১) শৈশব আর কৈশোরঃ বিশ্বাস করুন, আমার আপনার মতোই সাধাসিধে একটা সময় ছোটোবেলায় কাটিয়েছিলেন। তখন কি তিনি জানতেন তিনি এতোটা বড়ো হবেন?
২)ইংল্যান্ড গমনঃ এখানে নিজের অনিশ্চিত ভবিষ্যৎ নিয়ে চিন্তিত এক যুবককে খুঁজে পাওয়া যায়। গান্ধীর পরবর্তী জীবনের ভিত্তি গড়ে দিয়েছে এই যাত্রা। নিজ সমাজের নিগ্রহ মেনে নিয়ে অপরিচিত জায়গায় নিজেকে মানিয়ে নেয়ার সময়ের কথা জানতে পারবেন।
৩) দক্ষিণ আফ্রিকায় জীবনঃ মোদ্দাকথায় বললে, গান্ধী মহাপুরুষ গান্ধীতে হবার প্রস্তুতি নিয়েছেন এই সময়ে। নিশ্চিতভাবে বলা চলে, সত্যাগ্রহ ও স্বদেশী আন্দোলনের উপায়কে আবিষ্কার করেছেন এ সময়ে। কীভাবে করেছেন? জানতে হলে পড়তে হবে...
৪)সত্যাগ্রহ ও স্বদেশী আন্দোলনঃ জনমানুষের দাবিকে কীভাবে তিনি আন্দোলনে পরিণত করেছিলেন, কিভাবে সমন্বয় করেছিলেন, কি কি ব্যর্থতা ছিল- সবকিছুকে বিস্তারিতভাবে লিখেছেন।
★৫) নিরামিষভোজন + ব্রহ্মাচর্য ব্রতঃ এই বইয়ের সবচেয়ে ইউনিক অংশ। এটার কথা লিখব না। টুইস্ট হিসেবে থাক। তবে, ক্লু দিয়ে দেই- The great experiment of self-control 👏
আত্মজীবনী হিসেবে একটা বইয়ে আর বেশী কিছু আশা করতে পারি না। না পড়লে মিস করবেন।
খুব সহজ ভাষায় তার জীবনকে তুলে ধরেছেন চোখের সামনে! পড়তে গিয়ে মনে হয় যেন তিনি পাশে বসে নিজে কথাগুলো বলছেন। বেশ বড়ো বই। পুরো বইকে মোট ১৬৮ টি ভিন্ন ভিন্ন সাবহ্যাডে ভাগ করেছেন। মোটামুটিভাবে, যে দিকগুলো বেশী গুরুত্ব পেয়েছে সেগুলো নিয়ে একটু একটু বলিঃ
১) শৈশব আর কৈশোরঃ বিশ্বাস করুন, আমার আপনার মতোই সাধাসিধে একটা সময় ছোটোবেলায় কাটিয়েছিলেন। তখন কি তিনি জানতেন তিনি এতোটা বড়ো হবেন?
২)ইংল্যান্ড গমনঃ এখানে নিজের অনিশ্চিত ভবিষ্যৎ নিয়ে চিন্তিত এক যুবককে খুঁজে পাওয়া যায়। গান্ধীর পরবর্তী জীবনের ভিত্তি গড়ে দিয়েছে এই যাত্রা। নিজ সমাজের নিগ্রহ মেনে নিয়ে অপরিচিত জায়গায় নিজেকে মানিয়ে নেয়ার সময়ের কথা জানতে পারবেন।
৩) দক্ষিণ আফ্রিকায় জীবনঃ মোদ্দাকথায় বললে, গান্ধী মহাপুরুষ গান্ধীতে হবার প্রস্তুতি নিয়েছেন এই সময়ে। নিশ্চিতভাবে বলা চলে, সত্যাগ্রহ ও স্বদেশী আন্দোলনের উপায়কে আবিষ্কার করেছেন এ সময়ে। কীভাবে করেছেন? জানতে হলে পড়তে হবে...
৪)সত্যাগ্রহ ও স্বদেশী আন্দোলনঃ জনমানুষের দাবিকে কীভাবে তিনি আন্দোলনে পরিণত করেছিলেন, কিভাবে সমন্বয় করেছিলেন, কি কি ব্যর্থতা ছিল- সবকিছুকে বিস্তারিতভাবে লিখেছেন।
★৫) নিরামিষভোজন + ব্রহ্মাচর্য ব্রতঃ এই বইয়ের সবচেয়ে ইউনিক অংশ। এটার কথা লিখব না। টুইস্ট হিসেবে থাক। তবে, ক্লু দিয়ে দেই- The great experiment of self-control 👏
আত্মজীবনী হিসেবে একটা বইয়ে আর বেশী কিছু আশা করতে পারি না। না পড়লে মিস করবেন।
February 9, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Story of My Experiments with Truth. It not only gave me a deeper understanding of Gandhi’s life but also brought me closer to Indian society and its people in the early 1900s.
There is something captivating about the way he presents himself—on one hand, he takes pride in his unwavering commitment to principles, and on the other, he openly acknowledges his flaws without hesitation. Unlike the popular belief that his life changed dramatically after a single incident, I realized that his transformation was gradual, shaped by his experiences. His relentless pursuit of truth through constant self-experimentation is what truly defined him. As they say, curiosity is what keeps a man alive.
I haven’t read many autobiographies to compare, but I did find the frequent back-and-forth between chapters, especially the discussions on Khilafat, Khadi, and other events, a bit disruptive to the narrative flow. At times, I felt that some of its impact was lost in translation.
That said, I would highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to understand the man who went on to become the Mahatma.
There is something captivating about the way he presents himself—on one hand, he takes pride in his unwavering commitment to principles, and on the other, he openly acknowledges his flaws without hesitation. Unlike the popular belief that his life changed dramatically after a single incident, I realized that his transformation was gradual, shaped by his experiences. His relentless pursuit of truth through constant self-experimentation is what truly defined him. As they say, curiosity is what keeps a man alive.
I haven’t read many autobiographies to compare, but I did find the frequent back-and-forth between chapters, especially the discussions on Khilafat, Khadi, and other events, a bit disruptive to the narrative flow. At times, I felt that some of its impact was lost in translation.
That said, I would highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to understand the man who went on to become the Mahatma.
September 3, 2025
In 2001, having already read a few books, I found myself searching for a meaningful non-fiction title. That’s when I came across My Experiments with Truth, the autobiography of M.K. Gandhi. I was immediately struck by the simplicity and honesty of his writing. His reflections on life, truth, non-violence, and the moral and ethical challenges he faced resonated deeply with me.
Like Gandhi ji, I too have faced personal dilemmas and internal struggles. Changing oneself—breaking old habits or confronting ingrained patterns—is never easy. But through his candid accounts, Gandhi ji offered more than just philosophy; he offered hope. If one human being could overcome such challenges with sincerity and perseverance, then perhaps I could too.
Reading this book gave me strength. It reminded me that transformation is possible—not through grand gestures, but through quiet, consistent effort.
Like Gandhi ji, I too have faced personal dilemmas and internal struggles. Changing oneself—breaking old habits or confronting ingrained patterns—is never easy. But through his candid accounts, Gandhi ji offered more than just philosophy; he offered hope. If one human being could overcome such challenges with sincerity and perseverance, then perhaps I could too.
Reading this book gave me strength. It reminded me that transformation is possible—not through grand gestures, but through quiet, consistent effort.
March 7, 2026
It’s okay :))
To begin this review, I have mixed opinions about this book.
On one hand, it is fascinating to hear the stories directly from Gandhi himself. Reading about his personal experiences, struggles, and reflections gives an interesting glimpse into how he shaped his philosophy and beliefs.
On the other hand, some of the so-called “experiments” he describes can feel a bit misleading or questionable. That being said, anyone with sound judgment can read about these experiments, form their own opinions, and interpret them in their own way.
In the end, the book feels less like a strict historical account and more like a personal reflection. It shows Gandhi trying to understand himself and the world around him. Whether you agree with all his ideas or not, it’s still interesting to see how he documented his journey and the process behind his thinking.
To begin this review, I have mixed opinions about this book.
On one hand, it is fascinating to hear the stories directly from Gandhi himself. Reading about his personal experiences, struggles, and reflections gives an interesting glimpse into how he shaped his philosophy and beliefs.
On the other hand, some of the so-called “experiments” he describes can feel a bit misleading or questionable. That being said, anyone with sound judgment can read about these experiments, form their own opinions, and interpret them in their own way.
In the end, the book feels less like a strict historical account and more like a personal reflection. It shows Gandhi trying to understand himself and the world around him. Whether you agree with all his ideas or not, it’s still interesting to see how he documented his journey and the process behind his thinking.
May 8, 2022
In reading Mahatma Gandhi’s journal came to realize that the biggest personality trait he had was that of fearlessness. He had a great ability to influence people with his power of reasoning. Reading about his satyagraha movement and his non violence philosophy in both thought and deeds is inspirational. His bar in life was very high and he expected the same from people around him in a loving manner. He could have been a wealthy person by focusing on his law practice , but decided to dedicate his life to the higher causes in life. Some parts of this book were gross and uncomfortable to read.
September 26, 2023
The experiments with Truth gives a inside view of Gandhiji’s mind. It is inspiring to see him accepting the wrong thought process and correcting them. His ways for diet and other principles for living represents the core of disciplined living with a community. He gives us the opportunity and power to experiment with our principles and refine them with time.
I really liked his attitude of no shame when he cut his hair in wrong way and went to work. It takes courage to take first step and be in public eye. Because as we all know result of first step for learning anything contains a lot of flaws that we have to correct in this journey of life.
I really liked his attitude of no shame when he cut his hair in wrong way and went to work. It takes courage to take first step and be in public eye. Because as we all know result of first step for learning anything contains a lot of flaws that we have to correct in this journey of life.
April 5, 2024
Ghandi could definitely be annoying
I liked the book. However, the irresponsible nature of Ghandi towards his wife and children was annoying. I felt he was cruel in his expectations regarding much of his wife. He was extremely stubborn. His book so heavily relies on Christianity and the teachings of Jesus that I was disappointed but understood why he didn't ultimately submit to becoming a Christian. This failure, I believe grieved him to the last breadth as he never fully captured the Truth that he searched for, Jesus.
I liked the book. However, the irresponsible nature of Ghandi towards his wife and children was annoying. I felt he was cruel in his expectations regarding much of his wife. He was extremely stubborn. His book so heavily relies on Christianity and the teachings of Jesus that I was disappointed but understood why he didn't ultimately submit to becoming a Christian. This failure, I believe grieved him to the last breadth as he never fully captured the Truth that he searched for, Jesus.
April 28, 2025
Good book to understand the life of Mahatma Gandhi right from childhood to 1920s non-cooperation days. It takes a lot of courage and guts to write the things about oneself which gandhiji has written in the book. Ending pages are somewhat a disappointment due to their increased technacility but over all a good insight into the experiments done by Gandhiji and how he reached to the conclusion that "Truth is the only god and way to achieve it is through Ahimsa in speech, writing and actions"
July 11, 2023
Throughout the book, I couldn't stop admiring the way MK Gandhi kept accepting his faults. He risked his reputation by doing so. Maybe that is what all great men do, and have done. Accepting their faults, and being truthful in testing times. Chasing what truly matters to them, and becoming a better version of themselves. Maybe, they never cared about being famous, and so they became famous.
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December 19, 2024The author recounts his journey of discovering the truth, beginning with his departure for South Africa and continuing through his involvement with the Congress. Each step along the way provided valuable lessons about truth. Ultimately, he concludes that religion embodies peace and argues that separating religion from politics would be inappropriate.
April 3, 2024
The most compelling take away from this book is the fact that Gandhi as a symbol of peace was also an oppressor of women. Fascinating how history books and media manage to shine the light on one thing and leave other parts in the dark. Where they belong.
February 20, 2026
It was as if I had been living with Gandhi for two months while reading The Story of My Experiments with Truth. A lot of bad things have been normalized these days, and it feels like this book has, in some way, sanctified me.
May 20, 2026
I read it when i was what, in 2nd standard, i dont remember, but yes, i remember he married early, and his journey as a lawyer, and yeaa a lot of naughty things he did! God forbid,Gandhi was a naughty boy😔🥀
November 13, 2021
Book I have been wanting to read for long time. The book only gives glimpses of his life. The book “Pahla Girmitiya” more of his life story in whole.
This books is none the less a lesion text book.
This books is none the less a lesion text book.
December 4, 2021
Woah…pretty intense…but helped me to understand Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violence and peaceful opposition…
What I hadn’t realized is that he had several bout’s of being unhealthy and sick.
What I hadn’t realized is that he had several bout’s of being unhealthy and sick.
December 26, 2021
Its a good app
January 4, 2022
I love this book. Wonderful to learn from inside the mind of a historically significant figure who is both quite extraordinary and quite ordinary at the same time.
July 23, 2022
A wonderfully inspirational book about Gandhi's life.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews