New Delhi: Kasturba Mohandas Gandhi was born as Kasturba Gokuldas Kapadia. Besides being famous as Mahatma Gandhi’s wife, she actively participated in the Indian Independence movement. She was born on April 11, 1869, in Porbandar. On this day, India also observes National Motherhood Day, which coincides with her birthday.
On Kasturba Gandhi’s birth anniversary, let us examine how she became a symbol of sacrifice—from baa to leader.
Kasturba Gandhi Birth Anniversary: From wife to baa to a leader
The Wife
As a wife, Kasturba Gandhi made great sacrifices. She supported her husband’s (Mahatma Gandhi) work for the nation and the freedom struggle. She also often kept fast for him while he was in prison and gave up her favourite foods, her religious beliefs and her jewellery. Most importantly, she accepted his vow of celibacy.
Although she was a devoted wife, she was not submissive. She expressed her thoughts and made her voice heard, even when dealing with Gandhi.
Baa – the Mother and Grandmother
Kasturba Gandhi was a caring wife, a loving mother, and a grandmother. She was very close to her children and grandchildren. On her deathbed, she felt joy whenever her children visited her.
Kasturba Gandhi: Courage and Tenacity
Kasturba lived away from Mohandas for many years while he went to England. With young children, she stayed away from him during his travels, especially to England and Africa. She could not read or write, making exchanging messages hard. She showed great courage in South Africa, helping Gandhi escape from a threatening mob while taking her sons to safety. When Gandhi was away, she lived alone in Phoenix, bringing cheer to the settlement.
The Satyagrahi
Kasturba was simple and gentle, but her gentleness showed her strength. Over the years, she supported Mohandas in his roles and his fight for equality for Indians in both India and South Africa. Historians note that she was among the first non-violent resisters, called Satyagrahis, protesting against the South African government’s decision to annul all non-Christian marriages. When Gandhi returned to India in 1914 and got involved in politics in 1917, Kasturba became more active in political matters. Gandhi wrote in his biography that she was strong-willed and often did what she wanted, which sometimes caused them to drift apart. However, she dedicated herself to his work as his public life grew.
Kasturba Gandhi: A Leader
When the Quit India movement started, Gandhi was arrested before he could speak at a public meeting. He asked Kasturba to take his place. Knowing the police might arrest her, too, she dictated a message to the public. She encouraged the women of India to join the struggle for freedom and urged them to follow the ideals of truth and nonviolence.
Though she was met with excitement by a large crowd, she was arrested and taken to Arthur Road Prison in Bombay. She told Sushila Nayar (personal attendant and doctor to Mahatma Gandhi and Kasturba Gandhi), “I have a feeling I will not come out alive.” The prison cell was dirty, and she fell ill. After a few days, she was moved to the Aga Khan Palace in Pune, where Gandhi was also held. This became her final imprisonment.
Kasturba passed away on February 22, 1944, at the Aga Khan Palace Detention Camp while resting on Gandhi’s lap. She was cremated in the compound of the Detention Camp the next day.
Kasturba Gandhi, Mahatma Gandhi’s wife, played a pivotal role in India’s independence movement. Beyond being a devoted wife and mother, she was a courageous Satyagrahi, actively participating in protests and advocating for women’s involvement. From enduring hardship alongside her husband to leading protests in his absence, Kasturba’s life exemplifies strength, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to the cause of freedom. Her legacy continues to inspire generations. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
