Mahatma Gandhi: 154 Years of Inspiration: Learnings from Mahatma Gandhi

India- the world’s largest democracy- is also the birthplace of one of the most influential figures of all times-one that inspired others all over the world and continues to do so more than 70 years after his death. Also known as the father of the Nation- M.K. Gandhi or Bapu as we know him played a key role in India’s independence.

On the 154th birth anniversary of this revered visionary, let us take a look at some of his teachings which are now more relevant than ever before in a world beset with problems, today.

Perseverance

India's freedom struggle spanned over several decades and if there was one man who was along for the whole ride, it was Mahatma Gandhi. Even in the toughest of times, when he found himself backed into a corner to retaliate against the oppressive regime of British rule, his beliefs in non-violence and honesty did not waver. And as history has it, it was only through this patience and perseverance did India triumph over 2 centuries of colonial subjugation.

Development of fundamental values

Values are lasting beliefs or ideals that shape a person’s character. They hold massive influence over one’s attitude and also serve as broad guidelines in all situations of life.

Mahatma Gandhi had a rock-solid value system which served as a foundation for all of his ideas and played a massive role in his movements. His main focus was to bring about productive and positive changes in his life and it was because of this value system that he successfully maintained an interdependent relationship with his followers.


Strategising and influencing

A strategic plan helps you set and achieve goals while keeping your focus on your long term vision statement. Ideas tend to spread like wildfire, especially when they come from one’s idol or an important public figure- as is the case of Mahatma Gandhi.

A wonderful strategist, Mahatma Gandhi, in order to spread his ideals in the right direction, made sure to maintain an extraordinary public-relation network and was highly aware of the importance of the press so as to influence the public to take the right steps against oppression.

Flexibility and reinvention

It is well known that we cannot always get what we want in life and that we may find ourselves in situations that are completely different from our original plans.

Mahatma Gandhi always stressed on the importance of flexibility and strived to make the best of all situations. He reinvented the rules, broke traditions and followed an unconventional approach like non-violence and Satyagraha to deal with the British when he realised that the existing tactics of brute force were not working and was simply creating more chaos between the Indians.

Leadership skills

A wise man once said, " Be the change you want to see in the world." This was none other than Mahatma Gandhi, who was a staunch believer of the notion of ' practice what you preach'. Whether it was his ideas of non-violence and satyagraha, the use of khadi, or a 240-mile long salt march, Gandhi was the epitome of 'leading by example'.

Written By Suhani