The Story of My Experiments with Truth · Chapter
Love's Labour's Lost? explained
Gandhi recounts the cold reception of the Indian deputation by Mr.
What happens
Gandhi recounts the cold reception of the Indian deputation by Mr. Chamberlain, who advised Indians to placate Europeans in South Africa. Gandhi then describes the difficulties of obtaining a permit to enter the Transvaal after the war, highlighting the corruption and bureaucratic obstacles faced by Indians, and his eventual success with the help of Police Superintendent Alexander.
Themes in this chapter
Social Justice and Anti-Colonialism
Gandhi highlights the systemic discrimination and bureaucratic hurdles faced by Indians in the Transvaal, reflecting the broader struggle for justice under colonial rule.
Characters to notice
- Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi
Leads the Indian deputation, prepares the case for Indians in Transvaal, and secures a permit with help from Superintendent Alexander.
- Mr. Chamberlain
Visits South Africa to secure a gift of 35 million pounds; gives a dismissive reply to the Indian deputation, advising them to placate Europeans.
Key passages
“You know, he said, that the Imperial Government has little control over self-governing Colonies. Your grievances seem to be genuine. I shall do what I can, but you must try your best to placate the Europeans, if you wish to live in their midst.”
Chamberlain told the Indian deputation that the Imperial Government had limited authority over self-governing colonies, and while he acknowledged their grievances, he advised them to appease the European population to ensure their survival.
Chamberlain's response underscores the powerlessness of the Imperial Government and the need for Indians to accommodate European settlers.
“He had brought home to us in a rather gentle way the rule of might being right or the law of the sword. But sword we had none. We scarcely had the nerve and the muscle even to receive sword-cuts.”
Chamberlain subtly reminded them that might makes right, but they lacked the strength or means to resist.
Gandhi reflects on the harsh reality of power dynamics and the vulnerability of the Indian community.