Gandhi's Stubbornness-Satyāgraha and Durāgraha

This study explores Gandhi’s characteristics such as Satyāgraha(眞理把持, holding firmly to truth), stubbornness and conviction by analyzing his declaration to suspend the Non-Cooperation Movement in the 1920s, his opposition to separate electorates for Untouchables in the 1930s, and his prayer meetings for Hindu-Muslim unity in the 1940s. Gandhi’s conviction, as reflected in these activities, can be interpreted as follows: In the 1920s, his conviction aligned with the spirit of satyagraha. In the 1930s, regarding the political rights of Untouchables, elements of duragraha began to emerge alongside satyagraha, showing a mix of both stances. By the 1940s, his focus on alleviating Hindu-Muslim tensions resulted in a practical loss of balance between conviction and stubbornness. The historical perspective and philosophical evaluation of Gandhi in this study may be an arbitrary diagnosis of his stubborn beliefs. However, the significance of this research lies in rediscovering the footsteps of a saint who sought truth and contemplated what was best for India.