# The First Experience explained — The Story of My Experiments with Truth

> Chapter companion for The Story of My Experiments with Truth by Mahatma Gandhi.

## What happens

Gandhi returns to India and learns that the Phoenix party has been accommodated at Shantiniketan and the Gurukul in Kangri through the efforts of Mr. Andrews, Swami Shraddhanandji, and Principal Sushil Rudra. He attends receptions in Bombay, where he offers a small satyagraha by speaking in Gujarati instead of English at a Gujarati gathering, and then proceeds to Poona at Gokhale's summons.

## Themes in this chapter

### Nonviolence and Satyagraha

Gandhi offers a 'little satyagraha' by insisting on speaking Gujarati at a Gujarati gathering, challenging established practices.

### Service and Community Leadership

Gandhi's concern for the Phoenix party's accommodation and his efforts to maintain their communal lifestyle reflect his commitment to service and leadership.

## Character check-ins

### Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi

Returns to India, reflects on the Phoenix party's placement, and protests the use of English at a Gujarati reception.

### Swami Shraddhanandji

Treated the Phoenix party as his own children at the Gurukul, Kangri.

### C. F. Andrews

Advised the Phoenix party and connected them with Shantiniketan and Sushil Rudra.

### Principal Sushil Rudra

Placed his home at the disposal of the Phoenix family, making them feel at home.

### Gopal Krishna Gokhale

Summoned Gandhi to Poona after his return.

### Mr. Jinnah

Present at the Gujarati reception, made a short speech in English.

## Key lines

> In those palatial surroundings of dazzling splendour I, who had lived my best life among indentured labourers, felt myself a complete rustic.

Amidst the opulence of Mr. Petit's mansion, Gandhi felt out of place, having spent his most meaningful years with indentured laborers.

_Highlights Gandhi's humility and disconnect from elite society._

> I expressed my thanks in Gujarati, explaining my partiality for Gujarati and Hindustani, and entering my humble protest against the use of English in a Gujarati gathering.

Gandhi thanked the audience in Gujarati, stating his preference for Indian languages and objecting to English being used at a Gujarati event.

_Demonstrates Gandhi's early advocacy for linguistic and cultural self-reliance._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-i-the-first-experience
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters