Books Written by Mahatma Gandhi, Famous Books List

Books Written by Mahatma Gandhi reflect his profound insights into truth, nonviolence, and the struggle for justice. Mahatma Gandhi penned several works during his lifetime that continue to resonate globally. In his autobiographical account, Mahatma Gandhi shared personal experiences that shaped his philosophy and highlighted the moral challenges he faced. 

The Story of My Experiments with Truth

The Story of My Experiments with Truth written by Mahatma Gandhi include his autobiography that recounts his journey of personal growth, spiritual evolution, and the pursuit of truth. He wrote this book to offer a sincere account of his life’s moral struggles and how these shaped his philosophy.

• Central Theme: The central theme of the book revolves around Satyagraha (truth and non-violence) and Gandhi’s continuous efforts to align his life with these principles.
• Key Message: The key takeaway from the book is that truth and non-violence are inseparable and fundamental to self-transformation and societal change.

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Hind Swaraj or Indian Home Rule

Hind Swaraj, written by Mahatma Gandhi, presents a dialogue between a reader and an editor representing his views, critiquing modern civilization, British rule, and Western materialism.

• Inspiration: Mahatma Gandhi wrote this book during his voyage back from London to South Africa, inspired by his reflections on Western industrial society and the plight of India under colonialism.
• Central Theme: The central theme of Hind Swaraj is Swaraj (self-rule), which Gandhi defines as political, spiritual, and moral autonomy.
• Key Message: Gandhi advocates for self-reliance, moral regeneration, and non-violent resistance (Satyagraha) for true freedom, focusing on returning to traditional Indian values and revitalizing village industries. He also emphasizes local governance for sustainable development.

Gokhale: My Political Guru

Gokhale: My Political Guru, in this book Mahatma Gandhi pays tribute to Gopal Krishna Gokhale, a prominent Indian leader and social reformer whom he regarded as his mentor. Gokhale’s guidance was instrumental in Gandhi’s transformation from a young, inexperienced activist into a leader equipped with a grounded approach to the Indian freedom struggle.

• Central Theme: A key aspect of this piece is Mahatma Gandhi’s profound admiration for Gokhale’s political wisdom, moderation, and unwavering commitment to non-violence and gradual reform.

Satyagraha in South Africa

Satyagraha in South Africa is an account by Mahatma Gandhi of his pioneering non-violent resistance movement, which he developed during his time in South Africa from 1893 to 1914.

• Central Theme: In this book, Mahatma Gandhi details his struggle against the racial discrimination faced by Indians in South Africa while also tracing the evolution of his philosophy of truth (Satya) and non-violence (Ahimsa).
• Key Message: Mahatma Gandhi documents the effectiveness of non-violent civil disobedience and its capacity to transform both the oppressor and the oppressed.
  • He emphasizes that, for him, non-violent resistance, rooted in truth, courage, and self-sacrifice, is a powerful force for justice.

The Law and the Lawyers

Books Written by Mahatma Gandhi include  “The Law and the Lawyers” which is a compilation of his speeches, articles, and writings that reflect his experiences as a lawyer and his perspectives on the legal profession.

• Central Theme: In this book, Gandhi articulates his belief in the ethical practice of law, emphasizing that lawyers should act as agents of truth and justice rather than merely serving their interests.
• Key Message: He advocates for the idea that justice and morality should take precedence over professional success.
  • Additionally, Mahatma Gandhi promotes conciliation, truth, and non-violent methods as preferable approaches to resolving conflicts.

Truth is God

In Truth is God, Mahatma Gandhi emphasizes that truth (Satya) is the ultimate reality and the essence of existence. In the book Truth is God, Gandhi equates truth with God, viewing its pursuit as the highest form of devotion and the foundation of all human activity. Additionally, Mahatma Gandhi’s concept of truth influences practical choices, such as dietary habits.

List of Books Written by Mahatma Gandhi 

Books Written by Mahatma Gandhi consist of several other influential works, a few of which are mentioned below:

Books Written by Mahatma Gandhi UPSC PYQs

Q.1 Who among the following is associated with ‘Songs from Prison’, a translation of ancient Indian religious lyrics in English? (UPSC Prelims 2021)

(a) Bal Gangadhar Tilak 

(b) Jawaharlal  Nehru 

(c) Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi 

(d) Sarojini Naidu

Ans. (c)

Q.2 Mahatma Gandhi said that some of his deepest convictions were reflected in a book titled, 

“Unto this Last” and the book transformed his life. What was the message from the book that 

transformed Mahatma Gandhi? (UPSC Prelims 2011)

(a) Uplifting the oppressed and poor is the moral responsibility of an educated man 

(b) The good of individual is contained in the good of all 

(c) The life of celibacy and spiritual pursuit are essential for a noble life 

(d) All the statements (a), (b) and (c) are correct in this context

Ans. (b)