Swadeshi And Merchants

Merchants always have the spirit of adventure, intellect and wealth, as without these qualities their business cannot go on. But now they must have the fervors of patriotism. Patriotism is necessary even for religion. If the spirit of patriotism is awakened through religious fervors, then that patriotism will shine out brilliantly. So, it is necessary that patriotism should be roused in the mercantile community.

The merchants take more part in public affairs now-a-days than before. When merchants take to politics through patriotism, Swaraj is as good as obtained. Some of you might be wondering how we can get Swaraj. I lay my hand on my heart and say that, when the merchant class understands the spirit of patriotism, then only can get Swaraj quickly. Swaraj then will be quite a natural thing.

Amongst the various keys which will unlock Swaraj to us, the Swadeshi vow is the golden one. It is in the hands of the merchants to compel the observance of the Swadeshi vow in the country, and this is an adventure which can be popularized by the merchants. I humbly request you to undertake this adventure and then you will see what wonders you can do.

This being so, I have to say with regret that it is the merchant class which has brought ruin to the Swadeshi practice and the Swadeshimovement in this country. Complaints have lately risen about the increase of rates. No one wants you not to earn money, but it must be earned righteously and not be ill-gotten. Merchants must earn money by fair means. Unfair means must never be used.

India's strength lies with the merchant class. So much does not lie even with the army. Trade is the cause of war and the merchant class has the key of war in their hands. Merchants raise the money and the army is raised on the strength of it. The power of England and Germany rests on their trading class. A country's prosperity depends upon its mercantile community.

- Speeches & Writings of M. Gandhi: P.391.