Understanding the Dynamics between Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Patel in India's Freedom Struggle
Mahatma Gandhi, often referred to as the Father of the Nation, played a pivotal role in India's struggle for independence. Although both Sardar Patel and Gandhi came from the state of Gujarat and shared a strong connection, their relationship had its complexities. This essay delves into the dynamics of their relationship, alongside exploring the reasons behind Gandhi's preference for Pandit Nehru as India's first Prime Minister.
Mahatma Gandhi's Journey to Independence
Mahatma Gandhi returned to India after spending 21 years in South Africa, during which he developed the philosophy of Satyagraha.
Upon his return, Gandhi was invited by Gopal Krishna Gokhale, a prominent leader of the Indian National Congress, to lead the Congress Party. Uniquely, Gandhi chose to tour India by first-class trains, experiencing the hardships of the masses firsthand. This journey revealed widespread poverty and misery, prompting Gandhi to transform the Congress Party into a mass movement for the benefit of the nation.
Through his lectures, travels, and padayatras (marches), Gandhi established a broad appeal and attracted a diverse array of individuals, including well-established professionals, to the national movement. This diverse group included figures like Rajagopalachari, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Sardar Patel, among many others. This coalition was instrumental in India's various satyagrahas and key movements such as the Non-Cooperation, Civil Disobedience, and ultimately, the Quit India Movement.
Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Patel: A Cordial Relationship
Despite their shared roots and the significant contributions of Sardar Patel to the independence movement, Gandhi and Patel's relationship was marked by mutual trust and respect. Both leaders aimed to serve the nation in different capacities and with different visions. Sardar Patel was known for his organizational capabilities and played a crucial role in rehabilitating India after partition, while Gandhi focused on mass mobilization and non-violent resistance.
The Selection of Pandit Nehru as Prime Minister
Choosing Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru as India's first Prime Minister was a strategic decision made by Gandhi considering various factors. Nehru's world view, personal popularity, and all-India perspective made him an ideal candidate. Moreover, Nehru's ideas on nation-building and his relative youth allowed for a sustained period of leadership, which was critical for the initial stages of nation-building.
Despite some criticism, Gandhi's choice turned out to be prudent. Sardar Patel's health did not allow him to continue leading the nation indefinitely, and the uninterrupted leadership of Nehru provided the necessary stability during the critical post-independence period.
overall, the relationship between Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Patel, albeit complex, played a significant role in India's journey toward independence and nation-building. Their varied strengths complemented each other, leading to a more inclusive and resilient movement against British rule.