Gandhi as a Son: A Simple English Interpretation
Mahatma Gandhi was born on 2nd October 1869 in Porbandar, a town in Gujarat, India. As a
child and young boy, Gandhi was a very loving and respectful son. His life shows how deeply he
cared for his parents, especially his father Karamchand Gandhi and mother Putlibai.
Gandhi’s father, Karamchand Gandhi, was a respected man. He worked as a Diwan (chief
minister) in various small states in Kathiawad. Though he was not highly educated, he was wise
and experienced. He believed in truth, honesty, and loyalty. Gandhi admired his father’s strength,
courage, and honesty. He saw him as a brave and generous man, but also someone who could be
short-tempered at times.
His mother, Putlibai, was very religious and kind. She followed strict vows, fasted regularly, and
prayed every day. Even when she was sick, she did not break her religious promises. Gandhi
remembered how his mother would not eat unless she saw the sun during certain fasting periods.
This deep sense of duty and faith left a strong impression on young Gandhi. He grew up
watching his mother live a simple, truthful, and disciplined life.
As a son, Gandhi was obedient and sensitive. He tried his best not to upset his parents. He was
shy and quiet in school, but he always wanted to make his parents proud. He avoided telling lies
and did not like doing anything that would disappoint them.
However, Gandhi was also curious and made mistakes like any young boy. For example, when
he was a teenager, he tried eating meat secretly. His friend had told him that eating meat would
make him stronger like the British rulers. Although Gandhi’s family were strict vegetarians due
to their religion, Gandhi was tempted. He ate meat a few times, but each time he felt guilty and
uncomfortable. He lied to his parents to hide the truth, and this made him feel worse. Eventually,
he decided to stop eating meat and promised himself not to lie to his parents again.
One of the most touching moments in Gandhi’s life as a son was when he stole a small piece of
gold to help his brother pay a debt. Gandhi felt terrible about it. He decided to confess to his
father by writing a letter. In the note, he admitted his mistake and asked for forgiveness. He
promised never to steal again. When his father read the letter, he didn’t get angry. Instead, he
cried silently and tore the letter without saying a word. Gandhi saw the tears in his father’s eyes
and felt deeply moved. He said that those tears cleaned his heart more than any punishment
could have. This moment taught Gandhi the true meaning of love, forgiveness, and non-violence
(Ahimsa). He never forgot it.
Gandhi’s relationship with his father was filled with love and respect. He served his father when
he was ill, often staying by his side and helping him with everything. He even skipped school
activities like sports just to take care of him. Gandhi showed his love through actions. He once
said that the reason he skipped exercise at school was because he wanted to be at home caring for
his father.
However, Gandhi also faced moments of guilt as a son. After he got married at the age of 13, he
got too involved in his married life. He later felt that he had failed to give enough time to his
father. He regretted this deeply, especially when his father was dying and Gandhi was not at his
side. This memory stayed with him for the rest of his life.
In his autobiography, Gandhi reflects on these events with honesty. He does not hide his
mistakes. Instead, he shares them so that others can learn from his life. As a son, Gandhi made
errors, but he always tried to correct them. His deep sense of duty, love for his parents, and
willingness to confess and change made him an extraordinary son.
Gandhi’s journey as a son was full of learning. His respect for truth, his desire to serve, and the
emotional bond with his parents shaped his later life and values. Through his experiences, we see
a picture of a sensitive, loving, and thoughtful son who grew into one of the most respected
leaders of the world.
Let me know if you’d like this paraphrased even more simply or translated into another
language.
