The Story of My Experiments with Truth · Chapter
Outcaste explained
Gandhi recounts the opposition from his Modh Bania caste when he decides to go to England to study law.
What happens
Gandhi recounts the opposition from his Modh Bania caste when he decides to go to England to study law. Despite being declared an outcaste and facing financial obstacles, he remains resolute, secures the necessary funds and passage, and finally sails from Bombay on September 4th.
Themes in this chapter
Self-Discipline and Simplicity
Gandhi's vow to his mother to abstain from meat, wine, and women in England demonstrates his commitment to self-discipline and simplicity.
Family and Personal Relationships
The chapter highlights Gandhi's relationship with his mother, brother, and the caste headman, showing the tension between familial bonds and social pressure.
Characters to notice
- Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi
The narrator and protagonist, determined to go to England despite caste opposition.
- Putlibai Gandhi
Gandhi's mother, who gives her permission and blessings for his voyage.
- Tryambakrai Mazmudar
A Junagadh vakil traveling to England, who shares a cabin with Gandhi and is commended to look after him.
Key passages
“With my mother's permission and blessings, I set off exultantly for Bombay, leaving my wife with a baby of a few months.”
Gandhi left his wife and infant child behind in Rajkot and traveled joyfully to Bombay, having received his mother's approval and blessings.
Gandhi's departure marks the beginning of his journey to England, leaving his young family.
“The Sheth pronounced his order: 'This boy shall be treated as an outcaste from today. Whoever helps him or goes to see him off at the dock shall be punishable with a fine of one rupee four annas.'”
The headman of the Modh Bania caste declared Gandhi an outcaste and imposed a fine on anyone who assisted him or saw him off at the dock.
The caste's formal excommunication of Gandhi for his decision to travel abroad.