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Does Gandhi still live in modern India?

Bernard Shaw's 'Goodbye To Gandhi' draws significant comparisons between contemporary India, and the India Gandhi had visualised.

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In his book, Goodbye to Gandhi, Bernard Imhasly travels across the country to see if the Mahatma still has relevance today, says Surekha S

Book:
Goodbye to Gandhi
Author: Bernard Imhasly

Bernard Shaw's 'Goodbye To Gandhi' draws significant comparisons between contemporary India, and the India Gandhi had visualised. The author is not an Indian national, but travels to the different cities, analysing the political and economic conditions against the backdrop of Gandhi's ideals. In this journey he tries to discover Gandhi's relevance in today's world and find out if he is still alive in the hearts of Indians.

Starting his journey at Gandhi's birthplace, Porbander, Imhasly travels to different parts of the country interacting with locals, politicians, Naxalites and social workers. He points out the contradictions between the existing world with poverty stricken people dying in villages and Gandhi's vision. He also brings to the fore the dichotomy between Gandhi's economic policy and the policies of the Government today.  The author also recounts his experiences with a cross-section of people, including those who are doing their own bit for the good of society.

He travels through Ahmedabad, Imphal, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Kolkata and Delhi. He interacts with landless Dalit women who are unable to recognise the statue of Gandhi. He recounts in detail a Naxalite who believes that violence is the only way to be heard today. Though he sees that most in the world has forgotten Gandhi's ideals or have modified them to suit their own interests, he also realises that the Mahatma's values still remain a yardstick for many. At the Sabarmati Ashram, he meets people who continue to live by Gandhi's views. He also comes across a combination of modernity and technology in an exhibition showcasing Gandhi's life, and wonders if the actual message of Gandhi is lost in the glitz and glamour.

The book traces the contributions of Mallika Sarabhai, Miraiben Chatterjee (head of SEWA, a self help group) Irom Sharmila, and many others who are fighting even today for the people. It also examines the true meaning of the word Gandhian.

Gandhi's grandchildren, many of whom are working for the welfare of the people, enlighten us about the meaning of their grandfather's work. Imhasly also traces the political life of Gandhi.

With a diverse India as the backdrop, he asks people about the relevance of Gandhi, and their lives lead him to realise that Gandhi is somewhere still alive - in the hearts and minds of the people.
s_surekha@dnaindia.net

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