Sambhav-2025

Day 27: Analyze the ideological differences between Mahatma Gandhi and Subhas Chandra Bose in their respective approaches to achieving their nationalist visions. (250 words)

01 Jan 2025 | GS Paper 1 | Indian Heritage & Culture

Approach / Explaination / Answer

Approach

  • Provide a brief introduction to Mahatma Gandhi and Subhas Chandra Bose.
  • Analyze their ideological differences.
  • To conclude, acknowledge their pivotal role in shaping India's struggle for independence.

Introduction

Mahatma Gandhi was a key leader in the Indian independence movement, celebrated for his principles of non-violence (ahimsa) and civil disobedience. In contrast, Subhas Chandra Bose rejected non-violence and advocated for resisting British rule through armed struggle. Their differing ideologies on achieving Indian nationalism highlight contrasting strategies, methods, and philosophies during the freedom movement.

Body

The comparison of their differing approaches:

Aspect Mahatma Gandhi Subhas Chandra Bose
Philosophy and Approach Non-Violence (Ahimsa): Gandhi firmly believed that India’s freedom could only be achieved through non-violent methods. He focused on moral and spiritual transformation. Armed Resistance: Bose believed that independence could not be achieved merely through non-violence and advocated for military struggle.
Methods of Resistance Satyagraha and Civil Disobedience: Gandhi’s tools of struggle included non-violent protests, civil disobedience, and boycotts against British policies. Indian National Army (INA): Bose led the INA, using military methods and collaboration with external powers like Japan to fight British colonial rule.
Social and Political Goals Social Reform and Rural Development: Gandhi’s vision of India included the upliftment of untouchables (Harijans) and the promotion of rural industries and self-reliance. Political Unity and Strong Government: Bose advocated for a centralized, authoritarian government post-independence, focusing on military strength and political unity.
Economic Vision

Swadeshi and Self-Reliance:

  • Gandhi’s vision for post-independence India was based on self-sufficiency, rural development, and a decentralized economy.
  • He opposed industrialization and championed handspun khadi as a symbol of economic independence

Centralized Economic Planning:

  • Bose envisioned a more modernized and industrialized India, which would require a strong central government, rapid development, and a powerful military.
  • The National Planning Committee was established in October 1938 by Subash Chandra Bose
Leadership Style Inclusive and Non-Hierarchical: Gandhi’s leadership was inclusive, often emphasizing consensus-building and non-hierarchical decision-making, seeking participation from all sections of society. Authoritarian and Military Discipline: Bose’s leadership was more authoritarian, particularly within the INA, where discipline and hierarchy were key to its functioning.

Conclusion

Mahatma Gandhi and Subhas Chandra Bose had two distinct approaches to achieving India’s independence. Gandhi emphasized non-violence, mass participation, and social reform, while Bose believed in armed resistance, military unity, and external alliances. Despite their differences, both leaders contributed significantly to India’s freedom struggle, and their legacies continue to shape the nation’s political and social fabric today.