The Story of My Experiments with Truth · Chapter
X: On the Anvil explained
The chapter describes the early test faced by the Ashram when an untouchable family—Dudabhai, Danibehn, and their daughter Lakshmi—seeks admission.
What happens
The chapter describes the early test faced by the Ashram when an untouchable family—Dudabhai, Danibehn, and their daughter Lakshmi—seeks admission. Despite external opposition, financial crisis, and internal discomfort, Gandhi and his companions stand firm, ultimately receiving unexpected help from a generous donor. The episode reinforces the Ashram's commitment against untouchability.
Themes in this chapter
Social Justice and Anti-Colonialism
The Ashram's stand against untouchability exemplifies the fight against social injustice and caste discrimination.
Self-Discipline and Simplicity
Gandhi's willingness to move to the untouchables' quarter and live by manual labor demonstrates simplicity and self-discipline.
Service and Community Leadership
Gandhi's leadership in accepting the family and managing the crisis reflects service to the community and moral leadership.
Characters to notice
- Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi
Leads the Ashram, decides to accept the untouchable family, and manages internal and external opposition.
- Maganlal Gandhi
Informs Gandhi that funds are exhausted, prompting the threat of moving to the untouchables' quarter.
- Kasturbai Gandhi
Shows indifference or dislike towards Danibehn, reflecting internal resistance within the Ashram.
Key passages
“I received a letter from Amritlal Thakkar to this effect: 'A humble and honest untouchable family is desirous of joining your Ashram. Will you accept them?'”
Amritlal Thakkar wrote to Gandhi asking if an untouchable family could join the Ashram.
This event triggers the central test of the chapter.
“Matters came to such a pass that Maganlal Gandhi one day gave me this notice: 'We are out of funds and there is nothing for the next month.'”
Maganlal Gandhi informed Gandhi that the Ashram had no money left for the coming month.
Highlights the financial crisis caused by the admission of the untouchable family.
“He placed in my hands currency notes of the value of Rs. 13,000, and drove away.”
A generous donor gave Gandhi 13,000 rupees and left without any formalities.
The unexpected donation saved the Ashram from immediate financial collapse.