Gandhian Principles, 11 Vows, Influence, Application, Criticism

Gandhian principles are the philosophical and ethical foundation laid by Mahatma Gandhi, one of the greatest leaders of the 20th century. Rooted in truth (Satya), non-violence (Ahimsa), self-reliance (Swadeshi), and Sarvodaya (welfare of all), these ideals shaped India’s freedom struggle and continue to influence governance, social justice, and development globally. Gandhi’s thought combined moral integrity with practical action, providing a timeless framework for human conduct and public life.

What are Gandhian Principles?

Gandhian principles refer to a moral and socio-political framework based on ethics, equality, justice, and compassion. Gandhi believed that true freedom could not be achieved without moral self-discipline and service to humanity. His philosophy was influenced by Hinduism, Jainism, Christianity, and Western thinkers like Tolstoy and Ruskin. These principles guided movements such as the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920), Civil Disobedience Movement (1930), and Quit India Movement (1942), which played crucial roles in India’s independence.

Gandhian Principles 11 Vows

The 11 core Gandhian Principles include- Satya, Ahimsa, Brahmacharya, Asteya, Aparigraha or Asangraha, Sharira-Shrama, Asvada, Abhaya, Sarva-Dharma-Samanatva, Swadeshi and Asprishyatanivarana. The key principles are:

1. Satya (Truth): Truth or Satya was the foundation of Gandhi’s philosophy. He believed that truth is God and living truthfully is the highest moral duty. Gandhi practiced and preached honesty in thought, word, and action, even in difficult circumstances. According to him, truth is not just factual correctness but a way of life rooted in integrity, courage, and justice. His entire life and movements, including the freedom struggle, were based on this core principle of truth.
2. Ahimsa (Non-Violence): Ahimsa or non-violence was Gandhi’s greatest weapon in the struggle for independence. He believed that real strength lies in the power to forgive and love even one’s enemy. Non-violence is not limited to physical harm but also includes avoiding hatred, anger, and cruelty in thoughts and words. Gandhi’s philosophy of Ahimsa influenced global leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela, proving that moral courage can defeat injustice peacefully.
3. Brahmacharya (Celibacy and Self-Discipline): Brahmacharya means control over the senses and thoughts, not just sexual restraint. Gandhi believed that celibacy helps channel one’s energy toward service, truth, and spirituality. He practiced self-discipline as a means of inner purification and mental clarity. According to him, controlling desires helps individuals rise above material temptations and focus on higher moral and spiritual goals, contributing to a more balanced and peaceful life.
4. Asteya (Non-Stealing): Asteya or non-stealing extends beyond taking someone’s property, it also means not desiring or using more than what one truly needs. Gandhi said that exploiting others or wasting natural resources is also a form of theft. This principle promotes honesty, self-restraint, and fairness in personal and social life. Gandhi urged people to live simply and ethically, respecting others’ rights and contributing to a society based on justice and equality.
5. Aparigraha (Non-Possession): Aparigraha means non-possession or non-attachment to material wealth. Gandhi believed that hoarding possessions leads to inequality and greed. He lived a simple life, owning only what was essential, and encouraged others to do the same. According to him, true happiness lies in minimalism and sharing resources with those in need. This principle supports economic equality and sustainability, forming the moral basis of Gandhi’s vision of a just and cooperative society.
6. Sharira Shrama (Physical Labour or Bread Labour): Sharira Shrama means earning one’s living through honest physical labour. Gandhi believed that every person must contribute to society through productive work, irrespective of their social status. He promoted the dignity of labour and the idea that intellectual and manual work are equally valuable. Gandhi practiced spinning on the charkha as a symbol of self-reliance. This principle aimed to remove class divisions and inspire respect for all forms of work.
7. Asvada (Control of Palate): Asvada or control of taste refers to moderation in eating and discipline over one’s desires. Gandhi viewed overeating or eating for pleasure as a form of greed that harms both body and mind. He followed a vegetarian diet and experimented with simple foods to maintain self-control. This principle encourages mindful consumption, balance, and respect for the body, promoting physical health and moral restraint as a path toward spiritual purity.
8. Abhaya (Fearlessness): Abhaya means freedom from fear. Gandhi believed that fear is the root of falsehood, violence, and oppression. He urged individuals to live courageously, guided by truth and conscience rather than fear of consequences. Fearlessness, according to Gandhi, arises from faith in God and moral strength. This principle empowered millions of Indians to participate in the freedom struggle peacefully and confidently, without being afraid of imprisonment, violence, or death.
9. Sarva-Dharma-Samanatva (Equal Respect for All Religions): Sarva-Dharma-Samanatva means equal respect and tolerance for all religions. Gandhi believed that every faith leads to the same truth and must be treated with dignity. He regularly read the Gita, Bible, and Quran, advocating interfaith harmony. This principle formed the spiritual foundation of secular India, promoting unity amid diversity. Gandhi’s respect for all religions inspired India’s constitutional commitment to religious freedom and mutual coexistence among communities.
10. Swadeshi (Duty Towards Neighbour): Swadeshi means prioritizing one’s local community, economy, and resources. Gandhi emphasized self-reliance and the use of indigenous goods to promote national independence. According to him, serving one’s neighbour is the first step toward serving humanity. Swadeshi encourages sustainable living, local production, and empowerment of rural industries. Gandhi’s promotion of the spinning wheel (charkha) symbolized this principle, linking economic freedom with moral and national progress.
11. Asprishyatanivarana (Removal of Untouchability): Asprishyatanivarana or the removal of untouchability was one of Gandhi’s lifelong missions. He believed that discrimination based on caste was against humanity and religion. Gandhi worked tirelessly for the upliftment of Dalits, whom he called Harijans (children of God). He campaigned for their right to education, temple entry, and equality in society. This principle aimed to establish a society based on equality, compassion, and moral unity among all human beings.

‹ ›

Gandhian Principles Applications

Gandhian philosophy remains deeply embedded in India’s governance and society. Many national programs reflect his ideals:

• Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (2014): Inspired by Gandhi’s emphasis on cleanliness and sanitation.
• Make in India & Atmanirbhar Bharat: Reflect the Swadeshi ideal of self-reliance.
• Gram Swaraj and Panchayati Raj: Manifest Gandhi’s vision of village empowerment and decentralization.
• Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Embodies the trusteeship model for social justice.
• Non-violence in Diplomacy: India’s foreign policy emphasizes peaceful coexistence and moral leadership, echoing Gandhian ethics.
• Gandhian institutions such as the Gandhi Peace Foundation, Sevagram Ashram, and Sabarmati Ashram continue to promote research and education on his philosophy.
• The UN General Assembly declared October 2nd (Gandhi Jayanti) as the International Day of Non-Violence, acknowledging his global relevance.

Gandhian Principles in Contemporary World

Even in the 21st century, Gandhian thought offers answers to pressing global challenges:

1. Environmental Sustainability: His advocacy for minimal consumption and simple living aligns with modern ecological ethics.
2. Economic Equity: Trusteeship and Swadeshi support inclusive, sustainable economic growth.
3. Peace and Conflict Resolution: Non-violence and dialogue remain essential for resolving global conflicts.
4. Social Justice: His fight against untouchability and inequality continues to inspire human rights movements.
5. Ethical Governance: Transparency, accountability, and moral leadership resonate with Gandhi’s concept of “Rama Rajya” (ideal governance).

Gandhian Principles in Education and Society

Gandhi’s Nai Talim (Basic Education) emphasized learning through productive work and moral development. Education, according to Gandhi, should combine head, heart, and hand, preparing individuals for self-reliant and ethical living. His educational model inspired community-based learning and vocational training initiatives across India.

Socially, Gandhi’s campaigns against untouchability, alcoholism, and gender inequality reshaped India’s moral and social landscape. His call for equality and dignity for every individual remains central to social reforms today.

Gandhian Principles Criticism

While widely admired, Gandhian principles have faced criticism:

• Idealism vs. Practicality: Some argue that non-violence and trusteeship are utopian and difficult to apply in a competitive global economy.
• Ambiguity: Critics claim Gandhi’s ideas on caste and industry were inconsistent.
• Economic Limitations: Swadeshi and small-scale production may limit large-scale industrial growth.
• Despite criticisms, Gandhi’s emphasis on ethical means over ends has kept his philosophy relevant, offering a moral compass amid political and economic turbulence.

Gandhian Principles Challenges

The major challenges faced in the implementation of Gandhian Principles has been given here along with the suggested reforms and way forward:

1. Materialism and Consumerism: Modern lifestyles contradict simplicity and self-restraint. 
   • Way Forward: Promote sustainable consumption through awareness and education.
2. Political Corruption: Erodes the ideal of truth and transparency.
   • Way Forward: Strengthen ethics in public administration and accountability mechanisms.
3. Economic Inequality: Contradicts trusteeship and Sarvodaya.
   • Way Forward: Encourage equitable distribution and CSR initiatives.
4. Religious Intolerance: Undermines communal harmony.
   • Way Forward: Promote interfaith dialogue and civic education.
5. Environmental Degradation: Violates Gandhi’s principles of coexistence with nature.
   • Way Forward: Integrate Gandhian ecological ethics in development policies.

Gandhian Principles Global Influence

Gandhian thought transcended borders and inspired leaders worldwide:

• Martin Luther King Jr. adopted non-violence in the American civil rights movement.
• Nelson Mandela applied Satyagraha principles in South Africa’s anti-apartheid struggle.
• Aung San Suu Kyi and César Chávez embraced Gandhian ideals in their political movements.
• Gandhi’s legacy continues to guide global peace-building, human rights, and climate justice initiatives.

Gandhian Principles Influence on DPSP

The Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) in the Indian Constitution (Part IV, Articles 36-51) are deeply inspired by Gandhian philosophy. They aim to establish a just, equitable, and moral social order based on Gandhi’s ideals of Sarvodaya, self-reliance, village economy, and social justice. Articles like 40 (village panchayats), 43 (cottage industries), 47 (prohibition and public health), and 48 (animal welfare) directly reflect his thoughts. The DPSPs transform Gandhi’s ethical vision into constitutional goals for governance and welfare of all.

Gandhian Principles UPSC

Gandhian principles represent an enduring philosophy of life, politics, and morality. They advocate for a world built on truth, non-violence, justice, and compassion. In an era marked by inequality, conflict, and environmental crises, Gandhi’s vision offers a blueprint for sustainable peace and ethical progress. His teachings remind humanity that real freedom lies not in power or wealth, but in moral strength, service, and universal love, values that remain as essential today as they were a century ago.