An Autobiography
M.K.Gandhi
The Story of My Experiments with Truth Essay/ Summary
Chapter 2
Childhood
Introduction:
In chapter 2 (Childhood) of his autobiography, Mahatma Gandhi reflects on his formative years in Rajkot. He recounts his school days, his experiences with teachers and peers, and the profound influence of stories like "Shravana" and "Harishchandra." Through these narratives, Gandhi explores themes of honesty, respect, and devotion, laying the foundation for the principles that would guide him throughout his life.
Moving to Rajkot:
Gandhi recalls that when he was about seven, his father moved from Porbandar to Rajkot to join the Rajasthanik Court. Gandhi was then enrolled in a primary school at Rajkot.
School Days and Studies:
Gandhi remembers his teachers well but admits that he was only an average student. From primary school, he moved to a suburban school and later attended high school by the age of twelve.
Honesty and Shyness:
During these years, Gandhi claims that he never told a lie to his teachers or classmates. He was very shy and avoided socializing. His books and lessons were his only companions. Gandhi's daily routine was to arrive at school on time and run back home immediately after classes, as he was too shy to talk to anyone and feared being ridiculed.
An Examination Incident:
Gandhi recalls an incident during his first year in high school involving an inspection by Mr. Giles, the Educational Inspector. He had given the students a spelling exercise with five words, one of which was "kettle." Gandhi mis-spelled the word "kettle." The teacher attempted to prompt him by nudging him with his boot, but Gandhi did not understand that he was supposed to copy the spelling from his neighbor’s slate. Gandhi did not understand the teachers intension. He thought the teacher wanted him to avoid copying from others.
Respect for His Teacher:
As a result, all the other boys spelled every word correctly with the help of the teacher, while Gandhi felt stupid for his mistake. The teacher later tried to explain the situation to him, but Gandhi could not grasp the idea of "copying." Despite this experience, Gandhi's respect for his teacher did not diminish. He was naturally blind to the faults of adults. Although he later learned of other failings of the teacher, his regard remained unchanged, as he believed in following the orders of elders without questioning their actions.
Distaste for Reading:
Gandhi recalls that he generally disliked reading anything beyond his school books. He completed his daily lessons to avoid punishment from his teacher, even though his mind was often not focused on them.
Discovering a Book:
Despite his reluctance, he came across a book bought by his father titled Shravana Pitribhakti Nataka, which was about Shravana's devotion to his parents. Gandhi found it intensely interesting.
Impact of the Story and a Picture:
Around the same time, itinerant showmen came to his area, and one picture showed Shravana carrying his blind parents on a pilgrimage. The book and the picture made a lasting impression on him. He told himself that this was an example for him to follow. Inspired by Shravana, Gandhi developed a deep respect and devoted himself to his parents.
Impact of Harishchandra:
Gandhi recalls how he got permission from his father to see a play named Harishchandra performed by a dramatic company. He describes the play "Harishchandra" as one that captured his heart. Gandhi acted out the role of Harishchandra many times in his mind. He questioned why people could not be as truthful as Harishchandra. This story inspired him to value truth and endure challenges, just as Harishchandra did.
Historical Perspective:
He recognized that Harishchandra might not have been a real historical figure, but the characters of Harishchandra and Shravana remained important to him. Gandhi felt that if he read those plays again, he would still be emotionally moved.
Conclusion:
Gandhi's childhood experiences in Rajkot, shaped by stories like "Harishchandra" and "Shravana," instilled in him profound values of truthfulness, respect for parents, and a commitment to integrity that would guide him throughout his life.
An Autobiography or The Story of My Experiments with Truth by M.K.Gandhi Explanation in Tamil @Banumathi K's Literature Insights
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