Gandhi’s lifelong quest for truth, which he referred to as satyagraha, or the “force of truth,” linked inextricably to his spiritual journey and political and social activism. This pursuit, rooted in his early exposure to Hindu traditions, expanded to encompass global philosophical streams, culminating in a unique spiritual-political synthesis that aimed to dismantle the shackles of colonialism and restore dignity to the oppressed. Born into a devout Hindu family in the late 19th century in Gujarat, India, Gandhi had early exposure to the Vedic teachings, the epic texts of the Mahabharata and Ramayana. Gandhi particularly relied on the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, and its discourse on dharma (duty), karma (action), and devotion profoundly shaped his thinking. In the Bhagavad Gita, the dialogue between Prince Arjuna and Lord Krishna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra underscores the significance of righteous action without attachment to results. This philosophy of Nishkama Karma (selfless action) became a cornerstone of Gandhi’s activism and his doctrine of nonviolent resistance.

Nevertheless, his spiritual paradigm wasn’t defined solely by his Eastern roots. Two seminal Western thinkers, Leo Tolstoy and John Ruskin, further enriched Gandhi’s spiritual milieu.