Chapter 5- Louis Fischer’s “Indigo” Summary, MCQs, Important Lines, Character Sketch, Textbook Questions/Answers, Vocabulary with Extra Questions.

Chapter 5- ‘Indigo’ by Louis Fischer

Also Read: Class 12 “Poets And Pancakes” by Asokamitran, “The Rattrap” by Selma Lagerlof

Vocabulary:

1. Abstractions: Concepts or ideas that are theoretical or not based on concrete reality.
2. Civil disobedience: The refusal to comply with certain laws or commands as a peaceful protest, often to achieve political or social change.
3. Commission of inquiry: An official investigation or examination into a particular matter, often conducted by a group of individuals appointed for the purpose.
4. Conscience: The inner sense of right or wrong in one’s conduct or motives.
5. Conflict of duties: One is torn between fulfilling two or more obligations or responsibilities that may contradict each other.
6. Extort: To obtain something, especially money or information, by force or threats.
7. Harbour a man like me: To provide shelter, support, or refuge to a person like myself.
8. J.B. Kripalani: An Indian politician and independence activist who played a significant role in the Indian National Congress.
9. Latrine trenches: Long, narrow ditches used to dispose of human waste, often dug for sanitation.
10. Lieutenant-Governor: A colonial administrative position in British India.
11. Pacifist: A person who believes in and advocates for pacifism, the opposition to war or violence to resolve conflicts.
12. Protracted: Extended or prolonged in time.
13. Reverend: A title used to address a Christian minister or clergyman.
14. Sevagram: The ashram or spiritual community where Mahatma Gandhi resided and conducted his activities, located in central India.
15. Seek a prop: Look for support, assistance, or reliance from someone or something, often in times of difficulty or uncertainty.
16. Self-reliance: The ability to depend on oneself for support and decision-making without relying excessively on others.
17. Sharecroppers: Farmers who work on land owned by others and pay a portion of their crops as rent.
18. Stalwart: Someone who is loyal, reliable, and hardworking. It is often used to describe a person who is steadfast and unwavering in their support.
19. Thugs: Criminals or hired goons to intimidate or commit violence.
20. Tirhut division: An administrative division in Bihar.
21. Untouchable: A term historically used in India to refer to individuals from the lowest social caste, often facing social discrimination and exclusion.
22. Urge the departure: To strongly advocate or encourage leaving or withdrawing from a place or situation.
23. Viceroy: The British colonial administrator in India during British rule.

Summary “Indigo” by Louis Fischer: 

• The excerpt from Louis Fischer‘s “The Life of Mahatma Gandhi” recounts Gandhi’s pivotal role in the Champaran Satyagraha of 1917. In response to the unjust indigo cultivation system imposed by British landlords in Bihar, Gandhi, prompted by sharecropper Rajkumar Shukla, investigated the situation.

• Despite British intimidation, Gandhi persisted, facing court summons and sparking a demonstration of thousands of peasants. His civil disobedience strategy, coupled with the support of prominent lawyers like Rajendra Prasad, led to a 50% refund agreement for sharecroppers, ending indigo sharecropping within a few years.

• Champaran marked a turning point in Gandhi’s life, showcasing his commitment to practical issues affecting the masses and his emphasis on self-reliance and Indian independence. Gandhi’s approach intertwined politics with everyday problems, emphasising loyalty to living beings over abstractions and teaching a lesson in self-reliance to his followers, like Charles Freer Andrews.

Theme “Indigo” by Louis Fischer: 

The excerpt from Louis Fischer’s book “The Life of Mahatma Gandhi” highlights Gandhi’s leadership in securing justice for oppressed people, mainly through his actions in Champaran. Here, the theme revolves around Gandhi’s approach to obtaining justice through convincing argumentation, negotiation, and his dedication to the welfare of the oppressed.

Main Themes:

• Leadership for Justice: Gandhi’s leadership is depicted in his response to Rajkumar Shukla’s plea and subsequent actions in Champaran. Despite facing opposition and threats, Gandhi persisted in his efforts to address the grievances of the sharecroppers and secure justice.

• Convincing Argumentation and Negotiation: Gandhi’s approach involved engaging with authorities through reasoned argumentation and negotiation rather than resorting to violence or aggression. He demonstrated the power of peaceful resistance and civil disobedience to bring about change.

Sub-Theme:

Contributions of Anonymous Indians: The excerpt also highlights the contributions of anonymous individuals like Rajkumar Shukla, whose determination and perseverance played a crucial role in drawing Gandhi’s attention to the plight of the oppressed. These unsung heroes represent the collective spirit of the Indian freedom movement and underscore the significance of grassroots activism.

Character Sketch: 

Based on the excerpt from Louis Fischer’s book “The Life of Mahatma Gandhi,” (1950) the character sketch of Gandhi can be drawn as follows:

• Compassionate Leader: Mahatma Gandhi, depicted in Louis Fischer’s “The Life of Mahatma Gandhi,” embodies compassion and empathy, notably displayed through his encounter with Rajkumar Shukla, a poor peasant from Champaran.

• Courageous Activist: Gandhi’s refusal to comply with British authorities’ orders, despite intimidation and threats, showcases his unwavering courage and determination in confronting oppression.

• Principled Advocate: Gandhi’s commitment to nonviolent resistance and civil disobedience highlights his adherence to principles of truth, justice, and morality, embodying the philosophy of satyagraha.

• Practical Organizer: As a charismatic leader, Gandhi mobilises and inspires thousands of peasants in Champaran to stand against tyranny, highlighting his leadership and organisational skills.

• Practical Visionary: Gandhi’s pragmatic approach to activism seeks tangible solutions to peasants’ immediate problems, such as securing refunds from exploitative landlords and addressing education and healthcare issues.

• Self-reliant Mentor: Rejecting external support, Gandhi emphasises self-reliance and independence, reflecting his belief in the innate strength and resilience of the Indian people.

• Transformative Legacy: Gandhi’s actions in Champaran reflect his visionary quest for a liberated India characterised by social, economic, and political equality, leaving a lasting legacy of compassion, courage, and empowerment.

Analysis:

Gandhi showcased his unwavering commitment to justice and the empowerment of marginalised communities through his interactions with British officials, lawyers, and the local community. His ability to mobilise local and national support highlights his skill in galvanising public opinion and rallying people around a common cause.

Moreover, Gandhi’s emphasis on self-reliance and independence reflects his belief in the capacity of ordinary Indians to drive social and political change. By rejecting external assistance and relying on the strength of collective action, Gandhi sought to instil a sense of agency and empowerment among his followers.

The excerpt provides insight into Gandhi’s leadership style and strategies. It emphasises the broader themes of justice, activism, and the power of collective action in the pursuit of freedom and equality.

Textbook Questions/Answers “Indigo”:

Thinking As You Read: 

Q1. Strike out what is not true in the following. 

a. Rajkumar Shukla was 

(i) a sharecropper. 

(ii) a politician. 

(iii) delegate. 

(iv) a landlord. 

b. Rajkumar Shukla was 

(i) poor. 

(ii) physically strong. 

(iii) illiterate. 

A1: a. (ii) A politician.

b. Rajkumar Shukla was: (ii) Physically strong.

Q2. Why is Rajkumar Shukla described as being ‘resolute’? 

A2: Rajkumar Shukla is described as being ‘resolute’ because he persisted in his efforts to bring Gandhi to Champaran despite Gandhi’s initial reluctance. 

He followed Gandhi everywhere, never leaving his side for weeks, and continued to urge Gandhi to visit his district until Gandhi agreed. This determination and persistence despite obstacles demonstrate Shukla’s stubborn nature.

Q3. Why do you think the servants thought Gandhi to be another peasant?

A3: The servants likely thought Gandhi to be another peasant because he was accompanied by Rajkumar Shukla, who appeared to be a poor yeoman or peasant himself. 

Since Gandhi was with Shukla and was not recognised as a prominent figure, the servants may have assumed he was also a peasant like Shukla, especially considering the hierarchical social structure of the time, where distinctions based on caste and social status were prevalent.

Q4: List the places Gandhi visited between his first meeting with Shukla and his arrival at Champaran. 

A4: Gandhi visited the following places between his first meeting with Shukla and his arrival at Champaran:

1. Cawnpore
2. Calcutta
3. Patna
4. Muzzafarpur

Q5: What did the peasants pay the British landlords as rent? What did the British now want instead, and why? What would be the impact of synthetic indigo on the prices of natural indigo?

A5: The peasants paid the British landlords 15% of their holdings as rent, which was surrendered as the entire indigo harvest. 

The British landlords now wanted compensation for releasing the peasants from the 15% arrangement due to the development of synthetic indigo. 

Synthetic indigo would impact the prices of natural indigo by reducing the demand for natural indigo, thereby decreasing its prices.

Q6: The events in this part of the text illustrate Gandhi’s method of working. Can you identify some instances of this method and link them to his ideas of satyagraha and non-violence? 

A6: Gandhi’s method of working in Champaran reflects his principles of satyagraha (truth-force) and non-violence:

• Truth and Non-violence: Gandhi addressed the suffering of peasants truthfully and non-violently.

• Civil Disobedience: He defied orders to leave Champaran, facing non-violent persecution.

• Mass Mobilization: Gandhi mobilised thousands non-violently to support the cause.

• Negotiation and Compromise: He negotiated for justice while willing to compromise for practical solutions.

• Empowerment: Gandhi empowered peasants, instilling courage and rights non-violently.

In Champaran, Gandhi’s approach showcased his commitment to truth, non-violence, civil disobedience, negotiation, and empowerment of the marginalised.

Q7: Why did  Gandhi agree to a settlement of a 25 per cent refund to the farmers? 

A7: Gandhi agreed to a 25 per cent refund settlement to the farmers because he prioritised the principle of the landlords surrendering part of the money they had illegally obtained from the sharecroppers over the refund amount. He believed the landlords’ concession was more important than the specific monetary figure. 

Gandhi aimed to demonstrate to the peasants that they had rights and defenders, and by accepting the 25 per cent refund, he effectively broke the deadlock and initiated progress towards addressing the injustice faced by the peasants.

Q8:  How did the episode change the plight of the peasants?

A8: The episode changed the plight of the peasants in several ways:

• End of Indigo Sharecropping: The settlement reached with the landlords marked the end of the oppressive indigo sharecropping system. The landlords eventually abandoned their estates, which reverted to the peasants, freeing them from the exploitative arrangement.

• Empowerment and Courage: Through Gandhi’s actions and the subsequent events, the peasants gained a sense of empowerment and courage. They realised that they had rights and defenders willing to stand up against injustice on their behalf.

• Cultural and Social Development: Gandhi addressed the economic injustices and focused on Champaran villages’ cultural and social backwardness. He initiated efforts to improve the villages’ education, sanitation, and health conditions, demonstrating his holistic approach to social reform.

• Lesson in Self-Reliance: Gandhi’s refusal to rely on an Englishman’s help during the struggle emphasised the importance of self-reliance and self-determination in the fight for justice and independence. This lesson resonated with his followers and contributed to their understanding of the principles underlying the struggle for freedom.

Understanding The Text: 

Q1: Why do you think Gandhi considered the Champaran episode to be a turning point in his life? 

A1: Gandhi considered the Champaran episode to be a turning point in his life for several reasons:

• It marked his first significant involvement in India’s struggle for independence against British colonial rule.

• Champaran was where Gandhi first applied his philosophy of satyagraha (nonviolent resistance) on a large scale, demonstrating its effectiveness in achieving social and political change.

• Gandhi’s success in Champaran boosted his credibility and reputation as a leader in India’s freedom movement, laying the foundation for his future endeavours.

• The Champaran episode showcased Gandhi’s commitment to addressing the practical, day-to-day problems of the masses, intertwining his politics with grassroots activism and social reform.

Q2. How was Gandhi able to influence lawyers? Give instances. 

A2: Gandhi was able to influence lawyers in several ways during the Champaran episode:

• He challenged their traditional methods of legal advocacy by advocating for civil disobedience and nonviolent resistance as more effective means of addressing the grievances of the sharecroppers.

• Gandhi criticised lawyers for charging high fees to impoverished peasants and urged them to prioritise the well-being of the oppressed over monetary gain.

• By demonstrating his willingness to face imprisonment and hardship for the sake of justice, Gandhi inspired lawyers to reconsider their roles and responsibilities in society.

• Gandhi’s principled stance and moral leadership compelled the lawyers to join him in his struggle, ultimately leading to their participation in civil disobedience and resolving the crisis in Champaran.

Q3. What was the attitude of the average Indian in smaller localities towards advocates of ‘home rule’? 

A3: The attitude of the average Indian in smaller localities towards advocates of ‘home rule’ (self-governance or independence from British rule) was characterised by fear and apprehension:

• Many Indians in smaller localities were afraid to openly express support for advocates of home rule due to the repressive nature of British colonial rule and the potential consequences of dissent.

• The pervasive atmosphere of fear and intimidation created by British authorities made it difficult for ordinary Indians to align themselves with political movements seeking independence openly.

• Gandhi’s comment about the extraordinary nature of a government professor harbouring him reflects the prevailing fear among Indians in smaller localities of showing sympathy for advocates of home rule, as such actions were often met with reprisals from colonial authorities.

Q4. How do we know that ordinary people too, contributed to the freedom movement?

A4: Ordinary people contributed to the freedom movement in several ways, as evidenced by the Champaran episode and Gandhi’s broader philosophy of nonviolent resistance:

• In Champaran, peasants like Rajkumar Shukla played a crucial role by bringing their grievances to Gandhi’s attention and mobilising support for their cause.

• The spontaneous demonstrations of thousands of peasants outside the courthouse in Champaran reflected the widespread desire for change and resistance against British oppression.

• Ordinary Indians participated in civil disobedience campaigns, protests, and boycotts organised by Gandhi and other leaders, demonstrating their commitment to the cause of independence.

• Gandhi emphasised the importance of empowering ordinary Indians to assert their rights and challenge unjust laws through nonviolent means, recognising their integral role in achieving freedom from colonial rule.

Talking about the text:

Discuss the following.

1. “Freedom from fear is more important than legal justice for the poor.” Do you think that the poor of India are free from fear after Independence?

A: The statement “Freedom from fear is more important than legal justice for the poor” reflects Gandhi’s belief in empowering marginalised and oppressed communities. While legal justice is essential for ensuring rights and addressing grievances, freedom from fear speaks to a deeper sense of security, dignity, and autonomy for individuals, especially the poor and disadvantaged.

After Independence, the extent to which the poor in India are free from fear varies widely across different contexts and regions. While significant progress has been made regarding legal frameworks, social welfare programs, and economic development, challenges such as poverty, social inequality, corruption, and violence persist. Many marginalised communities continue to face various forms of fear, including fear of exploitation, discrimination, violence, and insecurity.

Efforts to address these issues require legal reforms, social policies, and broader societal transformations, including changes in attitudes, behaviours, and power dynamics. Building inclusive and equitable societies where all individuals can live without fear requires sustained efforts from government institutions, civil society organisations, communities, and individuals.

2. The qualities of a good leader.

The qualities of a good leader, as exemplified by Mahatma Gandhi in the excerpt, include

• Compassion and empathy: Gandhi showed deep empathy for the plight of the poor and marginalised, actively engaging with their struggles and working to alleviate their suffering.

• Courage and conviction: Gandhi demonstrated immense courage in confronting injustice and oppression, even amid intimidation and threats from authorities.

• Integrity and humility: Gandhi’s actions were guided by principles of truthfulness, honesty, and moral integrity. He remained humble and committed to serving others, eschewing personal gain or glory.

• Vision and strategic thinking: Gandhi had a clear vision of a free and independent India and formulated strategic approaches to achieve this goal, mobilising mass movements and employing nonviolent resistance tactics.

• Self-reliance and empowerment: Gandhi emphasised the importance of self-reliance and empowerment, encouraging individuals and communities to take ownership of their struggles and work towards their liberation.

• Commitment to justice and equality: Gandhi was unwavering in his commitment to justice, equality, and human rights, advocating for the rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of caste, class, or creed.

These qualities highlight the transformative potential of ethical leadership grounded in moral principles, humility, and a deep sense of service to humanity.

Working with words:

• List the words used in the text related to legal procedures.

A: Specialist vocabulary used in legal parlance: 

• Sharecroppers: Individuals who farm land owned by others and pay a portion of their crops as rent.
• Litigate: To engage in legal proceedings or to bring a lawsuit.
• Arable land: Land suitable for growing crops.
• Official inquiry: A formal investigation conducted by government authorities.
• Magistrate: A judicial officer who typically presides over minor legal cases.
• Civil disobedience: The deliberate refusal to obey certain laws, demands, or commands of a government.
• Summons: An official order to appear before a court or magistrate.
• Bail: The temporary release of an accused person awaiting trial, sometimes secured by a sum of money.
• Commission of inquiry: A group formed to investigate and report on specific issues.
• Depositions: Testimonies given under oath, typically outside of court, which can be used as evidence in legal proceedings.
• Settlement: An agreement reached between parties to resolve a legal dispute.
• Plead guilty: To formally admit to committing the offence or wrongdoing charged.
• Defendants: Individuals or entities against whom legal action is taken or accused in court.
• Prosecutor: The legal representative who brings charges in a court case on behalf of the government.
• Penalty: The punishment imposed for breaking a law or rule.
• Admonish: To caution or reprimand someone firmly.
• Desist: To cease or abstain from doing something.
• Obedience to the higher law of our being: A reference to a moral or ethical principle that supersedes human-made laws.

Extra Questions “Indigo” by Louis Fischer: 

Q1: Why did Rajkumar Shukla approach Gandhi during the Indian National Congress party convention in Lucknow in 1916?

A1: Rajkumar Shukla approached Gandhi during the convention to seek his help regarding the injustice faced by the sharecroppers in Champaran, Bihar, where the landlord system oppressed the peasants.

Q2: What was the significance of Gandhi’s visit to Muzzafarpur before going to Champaran?

A2: Before going to Champaran, Gandhi visited Muzzafarpur to gather more information about the conditions there and to meet with local leaders and activists who could provide insights into the plight of the peasants and sharecroppers.

Q3: How did Gandhi respond to the bullying tactics of the British officials in Champaran?

A3: Gandhi refused to yield to the bullying tactics of the British officials in Champaran. Instead of leaving as ordered, he chose to defy the authorities and continued his mission to investigate and address the peasants’ grievances.

Q4: What was the outcome of Gandhi’s encounter with the British officials in Champaran?

A4: Despite resistance and intimidation from British officials, Gandhi’s persistence led to a significant breakthrough. He mobilised thousands of peasants in a demonstration of civil disobedience, challenging the authority of the British and eventually forcing them to drop the case against him.

Q5: How did Gandhi negotiate with the British landlords regarding compensation for the sharecroppers?

A5: Gandhi negotiated with the British landlords, demanding a refund of 50% of the money illegally extorted from the sharecroppers. Eventually, he settled for a 25% refund, breaking the deadlock and securing a significant victory for the peasants.

Q6: What initiatives did Gandhi undertake to address Champaran villages’ social and cultural backwardness?

A6: Gandhi initiated various programs to address the social and cultural backwardness in Champaran villages, including the establishment of primary schools, the promotion of personal cleanliness and community sanitation, and providing healthcare services to improve the living conditions of the people.

Q7: How did Gandhi demonstrate his commitment to self-reliance during the Champaran episode?

A7: Gandhi showed his commitment to self-reliance by rejecting the idea of relying on an Englishman, Charles Freer Andrews, for assistance in the struggle against injustice. He emphasised the importance of Indians relying on themselves to win the battle for their rights and independence.

Q8: What role did Gandhi’s associates, Rajendra Prasad and Charles Freer Andrews, play during the Champaran episode?

A8: Rajendra Prasad and other associates played crucial roles in supporting Gandhi during the Champaran episode. Prasad and other lawyers provided legal assistance and advice to Gandhi, and they even offered to accompany him to jail if necessary.

On the other hand, Charles Freer Andrews sought to contribute to the cause. Still, he was discouraged by Gandhi, who emphasised the importance of self-reliance in the struggle against injustice.

Q9: How did Gandhi’s approach in Champaran reflect his broader philosophy of nonviolent resistance?

A9: Gandhi’s approach in Champaran exemplified his philosophy of nonviolent resistance, known as Satyagraha.

Despite facing intimidation and legal challenges, Gandhi remained committed to nonviolent protest and civil disobedience. 

His willingness to confront injustice with peaceful means and his insistence on self-reliance empowered the oppressed peasants and challenged the authority of the British rulers.

Q10: How did Gandhi’s actions in Champaran impact the broader Indian independence movement?

A10: Gandhi’s actions in Champaran significantly impacted the broader Indian independence movement. The Champaran episode’s successful outcome demonstrated nonviolent resistance’s effectiveness in challenging British authority and addressing social injustices. It inspired similar movements across India and reinforced Gandhi’s role as a leader of the struggle for independence.

Q11: How did Gandhi’s interaction with the peasants and landlords in Champaran reflect his approach to social justice and equality?

A11: Gandhi’s interaction with the peasants and landlords in Champaran reflected his commitment to social justice and equality. He empathised with the plight of the oppressed peasants and advocated for their rights against the landlord system. By negotiating with the landlords and seeking fair compensation for the peasants, Gandhi demonstrated his belief in equality and dignity for all individuals, regardless of their social status.

Q12: What long-term effects did Gandhi’s intervention in Champaran have on the social and economic landscape of the region?

A12: Gandhi’s intervention in Champaran had a long-term impact on the social and economic landscape of the area. The successful resolution of the indigo sharecroppers’ grievances led to the abolition of oppressive practices and the empowerment of the peasant community. It paved the way for land reforms and increased awareness of social injustices, laying the foundation for broader social and economic changes in Champaran and beyond.

Q13: How did the Champaran episode contribute to Gandhi’s evolving role as a leader and symbol of resistance in India?

A13: The Champaran episode marked a significant milestone in Gandhi’s journey as a leader and symbol of resistance in India. His willingness to confront injustice and oppression and his commitment to nonviolent resistance resonated deeply with people nationwide. 

The success of his efforts in Champaran elevated Gandhi to a prominent position within the Indian independence movement and solidified his reputation as a champion of social justice and equality. 

Gandhi’s leadership during the Champaran episode inspired countless individuals to join the struggle for independence and paved the way for future movements against colonial rule.

Q14: In what ways did Gandhi’s approach in Champaran demonstrate his ability to bridge diverse communities and garner widespread support?

A14: Gandhi’s approach in Champaran showcased his ability to bridge diverse communities and garner general support for the cause of social justice and independence. By actively engaging with peasants, lawyers, activists, and even British officials, Gandhi fostered a sense of unity and solidarity among disparate groups. 

His inclusive leadership style and emphasis on nonviolent resistance resonated with people from various backgrounds, fostering a sense of collective purpose and empowerment. Through dialogue, negotiation, and moral action, Gandhi mobilised broad-based support for the struggle against injustice and oppression in Champaran and beyond.

Q15: How did Gandhi’s involvement in the Champaran episode influence his subsequent strategies and campaigns in the Indian independence movement?

A15: Gandhi’s involvement in the Champaran episode was a blueprint for his next strategy and campaigns in the Indian independence movement. The principles of nonviolent resistance, civil disobedience, and grassroots mobilisation he employed in Champaran became central tenets of his larger philosophy of Satyagraha.

Inspired by the success of his efforts in Champaran, Gandhi continued to organise similar movements across India, addressing a wide range of social, economic, and political issues. His experiences in Champaran informed his approach to leadership, strategy, and tactics, shaping the trajectory of the independence movement and leaving a lasting impact on Indian history.

Q16: What lessons can be drawn from Gandhi’s engagement with the Champaran peasants for contemporary social justice movements?

A16: Gandhi’s engagement with the Champaran peasants offers several valuable lessons for modern social justice movements. Firstly, his emphasis on nonviolent resistance highlights the power of peaceful protest in effecting meaningful change. Secondly, Gandhi’s commitment to grassroots organising and community empowerment highlights the importance of building solidarity and mobilising collective action from the ground up. 

Gandhi’s unwavering dedication to equality, dignity, and self-reliance is a timeless reminder of the values underpinning effective social justice advocacy. Overall, Gandhi’s approach in Champaran provides a compelling model for modern activists seeking to address systemic injustices and create positive social transformation.

Important Lines “Indigo” by Louis Fischer: 

1. “The peasants were sharecroppers. Rajkumar Shukla was one of them.” – This line establishes the background of Rajkumar Shukla as a representative of the sharecroppers in Champaran, highlighting the economic and social context of their struggle.

2. “Gandhi decided to go first to Muzzafarpur, which was en route to Champaran, to obtain more complete information about conditions than Shukla was capable of imparting.” – Gandhi’s decision to gather comprehensive information about the situation in Champaran indicates his strategic approach to addressing the issues faced by the peasants, emphasising the importance of understanding the complexities of the problem before taking action.

3. “The news of Gandhi’s advent and of the nature of his mission spread quickly through Muzzafarpur and to Champaran.” – This line emphasises the impact of Gandhi’s presence and mission, highlighting the widespread attention and support garnered for his efforts to address the grievances of the peasants.

4. “The battle of Champaran is won,” he exclaimed. – Gandhi’s declaration signifies a pivotal moment in the struggle of the Champaran peasants, indicating a significant victory achieved through their collective efforts and Gandhi’s leadership.

5. “Civil disobedience had triumphed, the first time in modern India.” – This statement highlights the historical significance of the Champaran movement, marking it as a milestone in India’s struggle for independence and the effectiveness of nonviolent resistance as a means of challenging unjust authority.

6. “But Champaran did not begin as an act of defiance. It grew out of an attempt to alleviate the distress of large numbers of poor peasants.” – This line highlights the initial motivation behind Gandhi’s involvement in the Champaran movement, emphasising his commitment to addressing the practical needs and hardships faced by the marginalised peasants, rather than pursuing defiance for its own sake.

7. “In everything Gandhi did, moreover, he tried to mould a new free Indian who could stand on his own feet and thus make India free.” – This statement encapsulates Gandhi’s broader vision of empowering individuals and fostering self-reliance as integral components of India’s quest for independence and social transformation.

8.  “He asked only 50 per cent… ‘Thinking probably that he would not give way, the representative of the planters offered to refund to the extent of 25 per cent, and to his amazement Mr. Gandhi took him at his word, thus breaking the deadlock.'” – This excerpt demonstrates Gandhi’s strategic negotiation skills and commitment to securing justice for the peasants in Champaran. It highlights Gandhi’s willingness to compromise for the greater good while leveraging his moral authority to resolve the conflict.

9. “But how much must we pay?” they asked Gandhi. – This question posed by the landlords reflects their uncertainty and apprehension about the financial repercussions of their actions, indicating their recognition of Gandhi’s authority in negotiating the terms of restitution for the sharecroppers.

10. “The cause is just and you must rely upon yourselves to win the battle.” – Gandhi’s rejection of external support from Charles Freer Andrews highlights his emphasis on self-reliance and indigenous leadership in the struggle for social and political change. It emphasises Gandhi’s belief in the strength and resilience of the Indian people in achieving their goals without relying on external assistance or validation.

11. “His was not a loyalty to abstractions; it was a loyalty to living, human beings.” – This line encapsulates Gandhi’s philosophy of active engagement with the tangible needs and aspirations of individuals, emphasising his prioritisation of practical, human-centred solutions over abstract ideological principles.

12. “He disregarded the order to leave, ‘not for want of respect for lawful authority, but in obedience to the higher law of our being, the voice of conscience’.” – Gandhi’s defiance of the order to leave Champaran reflects his adherence to the principles of conscience and moral duty, highlighting his belief in the supremacy of moral law over legal authority.

13. “The officials felt powerless without Gandhi’s cooperation.” – This statement emphasises Gandhi’s ability to exert influence and catalyse change through nonviolent resistance, highlighting the disruptive impact of his actions on the British colonial administration and their inability to suppress the burgeoning movement in Champaran.

14. “Under an ancient arrangement, the Champaran peasants were sharecroppers.” Sharecropping in Champaran was a longstanding practice deeply rooted in tradition and socio-economic fabric, shaping the relationship between landlords and peasants for generations. The historical context adds depth to understanding the peasants’ plight and challenges seeking justice.

15. “Most of the arable land in the Champaran district was divided into large estates owned by Englishmen and worked by Indian tenants.” English landlords owned most of the cultivable land in the Champaran district, while Indian tenants worked it. This unequal distribution of power reflects a colonial economic system where indigenous populations were marginalised. Gandhi intervened to address the injustices faced by Indian tenants and sharecroppers under British colonial rule.

MCQ “Indigo”: