1.
Nonviolence
(Ahimsa):
Gandhi’s most
significant principle was ahimsa, which means nonviolence or non-harming. He
believed in resolving conflicts and issues through peaceful means, advocating
for dialogue and understanding instead of resorting to violence.
During the Salt
March in 1930, Gandhi led a peaceful protest against the British salt tax by
walking over 240 miles to the Arabian Sea to make his own salt. This act of
civil disobedience demonstrated the power of nonviolent resistance and peaceful
protest.
2.
Truth (Satya):
Gandhi
emphasized the importance of truthfulness in all aspects of life. He believed
in speaking the truth even when it was difficult, and he considered truth to be
the foundation of self-improvement and social progress.
Gandhi’s
commitment to truth was evident in his personal life. He believed in living a
truthful life and once confessed to stealing a few coins from his father’s
pocket as a child. This event taught him the value of honesty and led to his
lifelong commitment to truthfulness.
3.
Self-discipline:
Gandhi practiced
strict self-discipline in his personal and public life. He believed in
controlling one’s desires and impulses to lead a more purposeful and meaningful
life.
Gandhi’s daily
routine showcased his self-discipline. He followed a strict regimen of prayer,
meditation, and exercise. This discipline helped him maintain focus and clarity
in his actions and decisions.
4.
Simplicity:
Gandhi lived a
simple life, advocating for minimalism and frugality. He believed that
excessive materialism could lead to distraction from one’s true goals and
values.
Gandhi’s choice
of clothing, like the simple loincloth he wore, exemplified his commitment to
simplicity. He believed that dressing modestly symbolized a rejection of
materialism and excessive consumption.
5.
Equality
and Social Justice:
Gandhi fought
against caste-based discrimination and advocated for equality among all
individuals, regardless of their background. He worked towards a just and
inclusive society.
Gandhi worked
tirelessly to eradicate untouchability, a caste-based practice that treated
certain groups as “untouchable.” He undertook efforts to break down
these social barriers, emphasizing the importance of equal treatment for all
individuals.
6.
Humility:
Gandhi was known
for his humility and his belief in serving others. He encouraged people to put
the needs of others before their own and to approach life with a sense of
humility and empathy.
Despite his
leadership role, Gandhi saw himself as a servant of the people. He cleaned
toilets, performed manual labor, and showed humility by participating in tasks
that were often considered beneath his status.
7.
Tolerance and
Respect for Differences:
Gandhi believed
in respecting diverse viewpoints and cultures. He encouraged people to engage
in open dialogue and find common ground even when faced with differences.
Gandhi was known
for his respect for different religious beliefs. He practiced religious
pluralism and promoted harmony among various communities, encouraging mutual
understanding and respect.
8.
Fearlessness:
Gandhi promoted
courage and fearlessness in the face of oppression and injustice. He believed
that individuals should stand up for what is right, even if it meant facing
adversity.
Gandhi’s
fearless approach was evident when he led protests against unfair British laws
and faced police brutality. He encouraged his followers to stand strong in the
face of oppression without resorting to violence.
9.
Selflessness
(Sarvodaya):
Gandhi’s concept of “Sarvodaya” or
the welfare of all emphasized the well-being of the entire community, rather
than just individual success. He believed in working for the upliftment of all,
especially the marginalized.
Gandhi’s efforts
to uplift the marginalized were highlighted in his campaigns against the
exploitation of farmers and laborers. He fought for their rights and better
living conditions, reflecting his commitment to the welfare of all.
10.Environmental Stewardship:
Gandhi’s
teachings included a deep respect for nature and the environment. He advocated
for sustainable living, promoting practices that would lead to harmony between
humans and the natural world.
Gandhi’s
emphasis on sustainability and environmental consciousness was showcased in his
advocacy for hand-spinning and weaving cloth. By promoting the use of
handcrafted cloth over industrially produced textiles, he aimed to reduce the
environmental impact of mass production.