Introduction

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi was born on the 2nd of October, 1869 at Porbander in Gujarat. He was the third and youngest son of his father. His father Karamchand was Deewan of three princely States of the Kathiawad region in Gujarat.

Gandhiji's mother Putlibai had a religious nature. In early childhood Gandhiji saw a play on the truthful king Harishchandra. He was much impressed by the sacrifices made and sufferings undergone by Harishchandra and his family for upholding truth. Because of his insistence on Truth, Gandhiji even as joke or childish prank.

As a child Mohan (Gandhiji) was not very brilliant student. He appeared timid and fearful. He had not much liking for reading, though he read school books. he had great respect for his parents and teachers. He tried to follow truthful behaviour even during his school days. Rambha bai, the maid servant, made him aware of the power of Ramnam (God's name) for dispelling fear. This proved useful to him till his last.

In 1893 at the young age of 13 years, the family got him married to Kasturbai. She was six months elder to him. She was not literate. Gandhiji taught her reading and writing. After completing his school studies, he went to England to become a Barrister-at-law. Before his departure, he took three vows. He completed his law studies at the age of 22 and became a Barrister-at-law. In the meantime he learnt French and Latin also.