Arun Gandhi :- Arun Manilal Gandhi, born on 14 April 1934, embarked on a life journey that echoed the principles of nonviolence, compassion, and resilience. As the grandson of Mahatma Gandhi, Arun’s existence was destined to be intertwined with a profound commitment to social change.
Arun Gandhi’s Early Life
Born in Durban, South Africa, Arun was raised in a family deeply immersed in the world of journalism, with his father being an editor and his mother a publisher for the Indian Opinion.
His first encounter with his grandfather, Mahatma Gandhi, at the age of five, left a lasting impression. However, it was in 1946, at the Sevagram ashram in India, that Arun truly experienced the transformative power of his grandfather’s teachings.
Living at Sevagram, Arun had the privilege of education, a stark contrast to the illiterate farm families in the surrounding fields. Mahatma Gandhi, realizing the importance of empathy and understanding, encouraged Arun to play with neighbouring children, fostering a deep sense of compassion and the need to share knowledge.
A Voice of Critique and Compassion
In 1982, when the film “Gandhi” was released, Arun Gandhi found himself at the centre of controversy. Criticizing the Indian government’s $25 million subsidy for the film, he argued for prioritizing more pressing matters.
However, after a special screening, Arun’s perspective shifted, recognizing the film’s accurate portrayal of his grandfather’s philosophy. This incident highlighted his capacity for introspection and growth.
A Global Advocate for Nonviolence
A significant chapter in Arun Gandhi’s life unfolded in 1987 when he immigrated to the United States. Collaborating with his wife Sunanda, he conducted a groundbreaking study on prejudices in India, the U.S., and South Africa at the University of Mississippi.
This marked the beginning of their journey in Memphis, Tennessee, where they founded the M. K. Gandhi Institute for Nonviolence at the Christian Brothers University.
As co-founders, Arun and Sunanda received the Peace Abbey Courage of Conscience Award for bringing Gandhi’s legacy to America. In 1996, Arun co-founded the Season for Nonviolence, a yearly celebration honouring the philosophies of Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr.
A Global Messenger of Peace
Arun Gandhi’s impact extended far beyond the United States. His speeches on nonviolence resonated in various countries, including Israel, where he urged Palestinians to resist occupation peacefully. His proposal for a peaceful march of 50,000 refugees across the Jordan River reflected his unwavering commitment to peaceful resistance.
Legacy Through Literature and Education
In 2017, Arun Gandhi published “The Gift of Anger: And Other Lessons From My Grandfather Mahatma Gandhi.” This book, a treasure trove of insights, encapsulates his reflections on anger, forgiveness, and the enduring power of nonviolence.
In the realm of children’s literature, Arun co-authored “Grandfather Gandhi” in 2014, delivering a pro-peace message and illuminating his personal struggles with anger, offering a unique perspective on his relationship with his legendary grandfather.
A Spiritual Journey and Personal Loss
Gandhi considered himself a Hindu with universalist views, drawing inspiration from Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity. His personal life was marked by a profound partnership with Sunanda, whom he married in 1957.
Their union produced two children, Tushar and Archana. The couple remained inseparable until Sunanda’s passing in 2007. As of 2016, Arun Gandhi resided in Rochester, New York, continuing to spread the message of peace and nonviolence.
The Final Chapter: A Tribute to Arun Gandhi
On 2 May 2023, Arun Gandhi breathed his last at the Sunanda Gandhi Home for Girls in Kolhapur, leaving behind a legacy that transcends borders and generations. His impact on the world, through literature, education, and impassioned speeches, remains an enduring testament to the transformative power of nonviolence.
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