The Story of My Experiments with Truth · Chapter
In the Congress explained
Gandhi attends the Indian National Congress for the first time, feeling overwhelmed by the grand scale and the prominence of its leaders.
What happens
Gandhi attends the Indian National Congress for the first time, feeling overwhelmed by the grand scale and the prominence of its leaders. He presents a resolution on South Africa with the help of Gokhale, but is disappointed by the rushed and superficial manner in which it is passed, realizing that the Congress's approval carries national significance despite the procedural flaws.
Themes in this chapter
Service and Community Leadership
Gandhi's attempt to bring attention to the plight of Indians in South Africa through the Congress reflects his commitment to serving the community and advocating for justice.
Social Justice and Anti-Colonialism
The resolution on South Africa highlights the struggle against racial discrimination and colonial oppression, a core aspect of Gandhi's activism.
Characters to notice
- Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi
Nervous and overwhelmed at his first Congress, he presents a resolution on South Africa with Gokhale's support but is disheartened by the lack of genuine debate.
- Gopal Krishna Gokhale
Supports Gandhi by ensuring his resolution is not overlooked and vouches for it in the Subjects Committee.
- Sir Pherozeshah Mehta
As a senior leader, he agrees to admit Gandhi's resolution and presides over the committee's rushed proceedings.
- Mr. D. E. Wacha
Allows Gandhi five minutes to speak and rings the bell to cut him short, causing Gandhi distress.
Key passages
“Mine was but a feeble pipe amongst those veteran drums, and as the night was closing in, my heart beat fast.”
Gandhi felt his voice was insignificant compared to the experienced leaders, and he grew anxious as the evening progressed.
Illustrates Gandhi's sense of inadequacy and nervousness in the face of established political figures.
“The procedure was far from pleasing to me. No one had troubled to understand the resolution, everyone was in a hurry to go and, because Gokhale had seen the resolution, it was not thought necessary for the rest to see it or understand it!”
Gandhi was dissatisfied with the process, as the resolution was passed without proper consideration simply because Gokhale had approved it.
Highlights Gandhi's early critique of superficial political procedures and his desire for genuine deliberation.