The Political Guru Who Guided Mahatma Gandhi: Gopal Krishna Gokhale

Gandhi and Gokhale: A Friendship of Influence

Absolutely not, he is not a liberal by any standards. Gokhale introduced a softer and more mellowed version of Hindutva and Brahminism into the Indian National Congress. Gandhi revered and followed this ideology under the guidance of his mentor, Gokhale. The interplay between these two influential figures played a crucial role in shaping the course of Indian history.

While violence and politics are often seen as inseparable, Mahatma Gandhi transformed this relationship. He led India to independence through the principle of non-violence, spiritualizing the political landscape. This unique approach has made Gandhi a revered figure worldwide, and Gokhale played a pivotal role in elevating Gandhi to the forefront of India's freedom struggle.

Supporting Gandhi and Shaping Independence

Gokhale was a mentor and guide to Gandhi, supporting him in his endeavors. In his autobiography, 'My Experiments with Truth,' Gandhi dedicated a significant portion of his writing to Gokhale's influence. Their first meeting, which took place on October 12, 1896, in Pune, left a lasting impact on both men.

Gandhi recounts his experience in his autobiography:

“I found him Gokhale on the Fergusson College grounds. He gave me an affectionate welcome and his manner immediately won my heart. This was my first meeting with him and yet it seemed as though we were renewing an old friendship.”

Gokhale's mentoring extended beyond just meetings. He provided Gandhi with strategic guidance and support, especially in his efforts to gain support for his work in South Africa. In a candid description of their meeting, Gokhale was described as examining Gandhi as a schoolmaster might examine a candidate for admission:

“Gokhale closely examined me as a schoolmaster would examine a candidate seeking admission to a school. He told me whom to approach and how to approach them. He asked to have a look at my speech. He showed me over the college assured me that he was always at my disposal.”

During the 1906 Congress session in Calcutta, Gandhi observed Gokhale's work firsthand, noting:

“To see Gokhale at work was as much a joy as an education. He never wasted a minute. His private relations and friendships were all for public good. All his talks had reference only to the good of the country and were absolutely free from any trace of untruth or insincerity.”

In 1915, Gandhi met Gokhale again, and just six days later, Gokhale passed away. In his tribute to Gokhale, Gandhi praised his mentor:

“Though Gokhale was an agnostic, there was a thread of religiosity in his work. His loyalty towards the nation was unprecedented and selfless. He was fearless.”

Later, Gandhi wrote a book in Gujarati titled 'Dharmatma Gokhale' (Gokhale the Saint), further cementing Gokhale's legacy in the annals of Indian history.