Episode Audio
Introduction
Welcome to another fascinating edition of Fantastic Guests on English Plus Magazine. Today, we have a truly special guest whose life and legacy continue to inspire movements for justice and peace across the world—Mahatma Gandhi. Though he lived in a time long before ours, his ideals of non-violence and truth speak directly to the challenges we face today.
In this interview, we’ll talk with Gandhi about some of the most challenging moments in his life, explore his views on today’s issues, and gain insights from one of history’s greatest leaders. Without further ado, let’s dive into this timeless conversation.
Interview Part 1 | Personal Struggles
Danny: Mahatma Gandhi, it’s such an honor to have you here with us today. You faced countless struggles during your life, whether it was standing up against British colonial rule or promoting peace in a deeply divided nation. Could you share with us what some of your most challenging moments were, and how you kept going against all odds?
Gandhi: Thank you, Danny, for your kind words. Life indeed presented many challenges, and at times, the obstacles seemed insurmountable. But to answer your question, one of the most difficult periods for me was during the Salt March in 1930. It was not merely the physical strain of walking over 240 miles, but the anticipation of how the British government would react. I knew that arrest and violence awaited many of us. The uncertainty weighed heavily on my heart. Another challenging moment was after the partition of India in 1947, when the country I had fought so hard to unite was being torn apart by communal violence. To witness brothers fighting brothers, Hindus against Muslims—it was unbearable.
What kept me going through such dark times was my unshakeable belief in the cause. I knew that truth and non-violence would eventually triumph, even if the journey was long and painful. It was never about my personal suffering. I saw myself as merely a servant of the people, and the love and faith they had in our struggle gave me strength. Their courage became my courage.
Danny: It’s hard to imagine the kind of mental and emotional strain you went through during those times. You often spoke of truth, or satyagraha, as a guiding principle. How did that idea help you stay resilient when everything around you seemed to be falling apart?
Gandhi: Ah, satyagraha, the force of truth. You see, Danny, truth is not something you follow when it’s convenient. It is a way of life, and it requires immense discipline. When everything around you crumbles, when people betray you, or violence breaks out, truth is the only constant. It’s like a lamp that guides you through the darkness.
There were times when people called me a fool for believing that non-violence could work, and there were moments when I doubted myself too. But I always returned to the truth. The moment I abandoned truth, I would have lost everything. And it’s not just the external truth—the truth of injustice or oppression—it’s the inner truth as well. I had to constantly remind myself that anger, bitterness, or hate would only corrupt the very thing I was fighting for. Keeping my heart pure and my mind focused on the greater good helped me to endure, even in the darkest hours.
Danny: That’s incredibly profound. It’s one thing to maintain faith in a principle, but another to put it into practice when people around you, including your own followers, may lose hope. How did you manage to inspire and keep people united, especially when success wasn’t guaranteed?
Gandhi: That, Danny, was perhaps the greatest challenge of all. People naturally seek quick results, and when those results do not come, frustration builds. I cannot count how many times people told me to abandon non-violence, to fight fire with fire. But in those moments, I knew it was essential to lead by example. If I, as their leader, faltered in my belief, how could I expect them to remain steadfast?
I tried to show them that true strength lies in patience and perseverance. There is a saying in our scriptures: “Truth alone triumphs, not falsehood.” It is a long and arduous path, but the fruits are eternal. I would often sit with my followers and remind them that this struggle was not about defeating the British or gaining power, but about transforming ourselves and the world around us. Once people saw that this was about more than political freedom, that it was about the freedom of the spirit, they found the strength to continue.
Danny: It sounds like your message wasn’t just about political change but about a deeper transformation—within individuals and society. Before we move on to some of today’s issues, I want to ask one more thing about your personal struggles. Was there ever a moment when you thought about giving up?
Gandhi: (Pauses) Yes, Danny. I would not be human if I said I never felt like giving up. There were moments—when violence erupted in spite of my efforts to maintain peace, or when the British government seemed immovable—when I questioned whether what we were doing would ever bear fruit. I recall the Jallianwala Bagh massacre in 1919; the brutality was beyond comprehension. In moments like that, you wonder if non-violence is truly powerful enough.
But those moments of doubt were fleeting. Whenever I felt on the verge of despair, I reminded myself of the millions who had placed their faith in the movement. It was not about me. I was just a vessel for a much larger purpose. In the end, it was my belief in the goodness of humanity that kept me going. Even when people acted with cruelty, I held onto the belief that they could change. I believe that even today.
Danny: That unwavering faith is what makes your legacy so powerful. We’ve touched on some deep personal challenges, but I’d like to transition to talking about how your principles apply to today’s world. There’s a lot of division and unrest globally—racial inequality, economic disparity, and environmental degradation, just to name a few.
Interview Part 2 | Global Issues
Danny: We’ve talked about your most challenging moments, and your unwavering belief in truth and non-violence. Let’s shift now to the world we live in today. Racial inequality, economic disparity, and environmental degradation are some of the biggest issues people are struggling with globally. I’d love to hear your thoughts on how your principles of non-violence and truth could help address these modern problems.
Gandhi: These are indeed pressing issues, Danny, and while the times have changed, the root causes of these problems have not. At their core, these issues stem from the same thing that fueled colonialism, war, and exploitation during my lifetime—greed, fear, and a lack of empathy.
Let us begin with racial inequality. This is not a new problem. In my time in South Africa, I was subjected to racial discrimination, and that experience awakened me to the systemic oppression faced by people of color. My approach then, as it would be now, was rooted in non-violent resistance. Racial inequality is a form of violence—it strips people of their dignity, their humanity. To counter it, we must awaken the world to the truth that all people, regardless of race, are equal. Non-violence isn’t just about avoiding physical conflict; it’s about seeing every person as worthy of respect and love. The moment you see your oppressor as human, not as an enemy, the dynamic begins to change. Protests, civil disobedience, and peaceful dialogue are powerful tools that bring awareness without creating more division.
Danny: Do you think those methods—protests and civil disobedience—would still be as effective today, especially in the face of systemic issues?
Gandhi: Absolutely. But it requires discipline, unity, and patience. Protests are a way to raise awareness, but they must be grounded in love and not anger. If they turn violent or become consumed by hate, they lose their power. Look at the struggles for racial justice across the world today—people are angry, and rightly so. But anger must be channeled constructively. Those who fight for equality must also educate, must show that their movement is not about division, but about creating a world where all are treated with fairness. Truth, in the end, is undeniable.
Next, we have economic disparity. This, too, is a form of violence—economic violence. I spoke often of poverty being the worst form of violence because it robs people of opportunity, dignity, and hope. In today’s world, the gap between the rich and the poor has grown even larger. But the solution lies in changing our mindset about wealth. We must return to a simpler way of life, where the well-being of the community is valued over the accumulation of material wealth. If those who are wealthy do not share their resources and uplift the poor, society will collapse under the weight of its own greed.
I advocated for self-reliance in India, the idea that each community should be able to sustain itself. Today, that could mean investing in local economies, promoting fair trade, and ensuring that the fruits of labor are shared equitably. It’s not about charity; it’s about justice. Governments and businesses must adopt policies that prioritize human dignity over profit. Economic structures can be transformed, but only if we, as a global society, shift our values from consumption to compassion.
Danny: That’s an interesting perspective—placing community well-being at the center of economic reform. How would you apply that same philosophy to something like environmental degradation, which is largely driven by overconsumption and industrialization?
Gandhi: Environmental degradation is perhaps the greatest challenge humanity faces today. During my time, we lived much closer to the Earth. Today, the connection has been lost. The industrial age, which began before my time, has spiraled into a form of exploitation that has devastating consequences—not just for the Earth but for all life. We cannot separate the well-being of the Earth from the well-being of people.
The truth is that we have forgotten that we are part of nature, not separate from it. We have exploited the Earth as we have exploited each other. My message would be the same: we must return to a life of simplicity. The Earth provides enough for every man’s need but not for every man’s greed. Industrialization, consumerism, and the constant drive for more have created this crisis. If we continue down this path, nature will correct us in ways far more violent than any war.
Non-violence toward the planet is just as important as non-violence toward each other. We must live in harmony with nature, adopting sustainable practices, reducing waste, and showing respect for the resources we use. Governments must act, yes, but individual responsibility is key. Every person can contribute to the healing of the Earth by changing their lifestyle—using less, reusing more, and finding joy not in things, but in relationships, in community, and in nature itself.
Danny: So, in your view, tackling environmental degradation isn’t just about changing policy, but about changing how people live their lives on an individual level?
Gandhi: Precisely, Danny. Policies can help guide people, but real change comes from within. If every person made a commitment to live more simply, to consume less, and to respect the Earth as they respect their fellow human beings, the collective impact would be immense. The Earth is generous, but we must meet that generosity with gratitude, not exploitation. This requires a profound shift in consciousness, which is why education and awareness are so crucial. Teach people not just to care for themselves, but to care for the Earth—and future generations will inherit a world where balance is restored.
Danny: These are such powerful insights, Mahatma. The idea of treating both the Earth and each other with compassion seems like the core message here. I want to explore one more major issue before we wrap up—armed conflicts. But before we dive into that, do you have any final thoughts on how non-violence and truth could further shape today’s movements for racial justice, economic equality, and environmental sustainability?
Gandhi: Yes, Danny. My final thought is this: All of these struggles—racial justice, economic equality, and environmental sustainability—are deeply interconnected. They are not separate fights, but part of a larger battle for the soul of humanity. The principles of non-violence and truth can guide each of these movements, but only if we recognize our shared humanity. We must cultivate empathy, not just for those who suffer but for those who cause suffering, for they are also lost. Only through love, truth, and compassion can we hope to create a world where justice and peace prevail. The time for change is now, but it begins with each of us.
Danny: Thank you, Mahatma. Your words will surely resonate with many who are striving for a better world. Now, let’s turn our attention to another issue—armed conflicts, a problem you dedicated much of your life to addressing. That’s what we’re going to talk about next, so my dear listeners, don’t go anywhere; we’ll be right back.
Interview Part 3 | Armed Conflicts
Danny: Mahatma Gandhi, you’ve spoken about racial injustice, economic disparity, and environmental degradation, all of which are significant challenges today. Now, I’d like to shift to another issue that has persisted throughout history—war. Armed conflicts are still happening across the globe, and the devastation seems never-ending. Based on your experiences, what are your thoughts on war, and what can the world learn about the futility of violence?
Gandhi: Danny, war is, in my view, one of the greatest tragedies of humanity. It represents the absolute failure of mankind to resolve differences through understanding and compassion. I have always believed that violence begets violence—it may provide temporary power, but it never brings lasting peace. My experiences taught me that war, even when it is fought with the best of intentions, leaves behind scars that take generations to heal. And often, these scars are not just physical, but emotional and spiritual as well.
In my time, I saw the horrors of both world wars, though I did not participate in them directly. But I witnessed the pain they caused—broken families, displaced people, shattered economies. I also saw how the cycle of violence continued, even after peace treaties were signed. The bitterness remained, and conflicts would reignite, sometimes in different forms. You ask what can be learned from those experiences? It is this: violence is a temporary solution that always leaves behind seeds of further conflict. True peace can only be built through understanding, dialogue, and the sincere desire to respect the humanity of the other side.
Danny: I think many would agree with you in principle, but there are situations today where people feel war is the only option—when they feel oppressed, threatened, or that their very survival is at stake. How would you approach those situations?
Gandhi: Danny, I understand the despair that leads people to believe that war is their only option. In South Africa, when I faced racial oppression, there were many who said that violence was the only way to win dignity and rights. Even in India, many wanted to take up arms against the British Empire. But I always maintained that violence, even when justified by noble causes, corrupts the soul. When you choose violence, you feed the same fire you are trying to extinguish.
There is always another way—one that demands more courage and more patience, but ultimately brings lasting results. That way is non-violence. I have seen it work, even in the face of overwhelming power. The British, who controlled India, had more weapons, more soldiers, more resources. Yet, through non-violent resistance, we were able to bring down an empire. It wasn’t quick, and it wasn’t without suffering, but it was a victory of the spirit over the sword.
In modern conflicts, where people feel their very survival is at stake, I would urge them to first seek the path of peace. War should never be the first option, because once it begins, it becomes difficult to stop. Non-violence requires as much bravery as war—if not more—because it asks you to resist hatred, even when you are hurt, even when you are attacked. This is not easy, but it is the only way to break the cycle of violence.
Danny: It’s a powerful perspective, especially when so many conflicts today seem to escalate quickly into violence. From your experience, what do you think is the key to preventing these conflicts before they become wars?
Gandhi: The key, Danny, lies in prevention through communication and empathy. Most wars arise from a fundamental failure to understand the other side, to listen deeply to their grievances, and to respond with respect rather than fear. Fear, you see, is often the root cause of violence. When we fear the other—be it another nation, race, or religion—we dehumanize them, and that makes it easier to justify violence against them.
To prevent conflict, we must cultivate the art of dialogue, not just among leaders, but among peoples. If you look at the great wars of history, you will often find that the seeds of these conflicts were sown long before the first shot was fired. Grievances festered, mistrust grew, and leaders failed to engage in honest, open communication. By the time war begins, it often feels as though there is no alternative. But in truth, alternatives were available all along—they were just ignored.
In my experience, whether in South Africa or India, I found that when people are heard, when their concerns are treated seriously, much of the tension that leads to violence can be dissipated. This is true for individuals, communities, and nations. A just and lasting peace requires constant effort, openness, and a commitment to seeing the humanity in the other side—even when you disagree with them.
Danny: You’re right—it often seems like communication breaks down long before the first act of war. From your perspective, is there a way to break the cycle once it starts? How do we move forward when so much damage has already been done?
Gandhi: Once the cycle of violence begins, it is difficult—but not impossible—to break. The first step is forgiveness. I know, Danny, that many people find this idea difficult to accept, especially when they or their loved ones have suffered greatly. But forgiveness does not mean forgetting, nor does it mean condoning the harm done. Rather, it means refusing to allow hatred to consume your heart. If one side continues to seek revenge, the conflict will never end.
I remember after India gained independence, there was immense bloodshed between Hindus and Muslims during the partition. Both sides committed unspeakable acts of violence. It was one of the darkest times in my life. But even then, I preached the importance of reconciliation and forgiveness. I went on hunger strikes to encourage people to stop the killing and to see their fellow countrymen not as enemies but as brothers. The violence did not end immediately, but the seeds of peace were planted through these acts of moral courage.
In today’s conflicts, I would urge leaders and individuals alike to be the first to lay down their arms—not as a sign of weakness, but as a sign of strength. Someone must be brave enough to say, “Enough.” Peace is built not through more violence, but through gestures of goodwill, through dialogue, and through the recognition that all human life is sacred. It is not easy, but it is the only way forward.
Danny: You’ve spoken so much about the importance of non-violence and forgiveness, and your legacy stands as a testament to those values. But many people today feel powerless in the face of global conflicts. What can individuals do to contribute to peace, even if they aren’t in positions of power?
Gandhi: Every individual has the power to contribute to peace, Danny. You do not need to be a political leader or a general to make a difference. Peace begins in your own heart, in your own home, in your own community. If you live your life with compassion, if you treat others with respect, if you refuse to harbor hatred or anger, you are already contributing to a more peaceful world.
Small acts of kindness, moments of understanding, and the willingness to listen—these are the foundations upon which peace is built. If enough individuals commit to living in this way, it creates a ripple effect that can influence entire societies. Do not underestimate the power of your own example. As I have often said, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” Peace is not something we must wait for others to create; it is something we can create every day through our actions.
Danny: That’s a message we can all take to heart—whether we are dealing with global conflicts or personal struggles. We still have one final part of our conversation with Mahatma Gandhi coming up, so my dear listeners, don’t go anywhere; we’ll be right back.
Interview Part 4 | Final Words
Danny: Mahatma Gandhi, as we approach the end of this enlightening conversation, I’d like to ask for your final thoughts—especially for this new generation. Many young people today seem disconnected from the lessons of history, and more concerned with what’s on their screens than with the legacies of leaders like yourself. What would you say to them, and how do you view this digital age we live in?
Gandhi: Ah, Danny, this new age is indeed vastly different from the world I knew. I see a great potential in this digital age, but also great danger. Technology, if used with wisdom, can unite people across vast distances, spread knowledge, and create opportunities for collaboration that were unimaginable in my time. But if it is used mindlessly, it can isolate people, trap them in a world of distractions, and sever their connection to themselves and to each other.
My advice to the younger generation is this: do not let the screens before you block out the world around you. These tools—your phones, your computers—are powerful, yes, but they are only tools. They should not dictate your life. The greatest truth, the deepest wisdom, cannot be found in the digital realm. It is found in the real connections you build with people, in the time you spend reflecting on your own heart and your place in the world.
You mentioned earlier that many young people may not care about the legacies of leaders like myself or others from history. But I would remind them that the struggles of the past have shaped the freedoms they enjoy today. The rights they have, the opportunities before them—these were hard-won, not by technology, but by human spirit, by people who stood up for justice, for equality, for peace. I encourage them to look back at history, not out of obligation, but to understand that they, too, have the power to shape the future.
Danny: What do you think is the most important lesson this generation can learn from your life and the lives of other great leaders in history?
Gandhi: The most important lesson, Danny, is that change begins with the individual. Every great movement, every act of justice or peace, starts with one person who refuses to accept the world as it is and has the courage to imagine it as it could be. You do not need power or wealth to make a difference. What you need is conviction, a love for truth, and the willingness to act.
And I would also say: slow down. This age moves so fast, and in the rush, people forget to pause, to reflect, to connect with the deeper truths within themselves. Progress is not about speed. It is about direction. Ask yourselves: where are you going? Are you contributing to a world that is more compassionate, more just? Or are you being swept along by a current that leads to division, isolation, and superficiality?
Danny: That’s powerful advice, especially in a time where everything seems to be moving at lightning speed. Any final words on how this generation can navigate the digital age without losing themselves?
Gandhi: Yes, Danny. My final words would be this: Master the tools, do not let the tools master you. Use technology to connect, to learn, to build bridges between cultures and peoples. But always remember to disconnect as well. Go outside, breathe in the air, touch the earth, speak face to face with another human being. Technology must serve humanity, not the other way around.
And finally, always seek truth. Truth is timeless—it exists beyond the screens, beyond the noise of the digital world. It is found in your heart, in the relationships you build, in the service you offer to others. Hold fast to truth and compassion, and no matter how fast the world changes, you will never be lost.
Danny: Thank you, Mahatma Gandhi, for those profound and timely words. Your message of truth, simplicity, and connection will surely resonate with those willing to listen, even in this fast-paced digital age.
And with that, we conclude this special edition of Fantastic Guests. Gandhi’s wisdom, though rooted in a time long past, continues to offer invaluable insights for today’s generation. The challenge now lies with us—to take these lessons and apply them to our modern lives.
Conclusion
Danny: Thank you all for joining me in this extraordinary conversation with Mahatma Gandhi. His timeless wisdom reminds us that no matter how much the world changes, the core values of truth, compassion, and non-violence remain as powerful as ever. In this fast-paced, digital age, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters—but Gandhi’s message is clear: slow down, reflect, and remember that each of us holds the power to shape the future.
Take his lessons with you, and as always, be the change you wish to see in the world.
Thank you for tuning in to Fantastic Guests on English Plus Podcast. Stay curious, stay compassionate, and I’ll see you in the next episode!
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