The Enduring Relevance of Gandhian Non-Violence: A Path to Truth and Harmony in Contemporary Society

Abstract

Mahatma Gandhi, a staunch advocate of truth and non-violence, held non-violence, or Ahiṃsā, as a cardinal virtue with profound significance. Beyond being a mere principle, it served as a gentle yet potent instrument for self-control and influence over others in all circumstances. Truth and non-violence formed the bedrock of Gandhian philosophy, extending far beyond the avoidance of physical harm to encompass the mitigation of inner turmoil within the human heart. Gandhi regarded non-violence as a means to discover truth itself. In the contemporary world, nations worldwide grapple with diverse internal and external crises. In today’s context, the pervasive impact of violence can be felt in various facets of life, from the domestic and communal to societal, national, and even international levels. The question arises: can non-violence find a place in the current milieu? Violence, rather than offering solutions, perpetuates a cycle of new forms of violence, planting seeds for future conflicts. In contrast, the practice of non-violence offers a path to address and resolve issues while safeguarding our environment, society, and the global community. Hence, Gandhi’s doctrine of non-violence remains pertinent in navigating the complexities of society. This paper aims to delve into the Gandhian conception of non-violence and its enduring relevance in our daily lives, as well as its impact on the broader world.