Mahatma Gandhi and Leo Tolstoy are two of the most influential figures in the history of non-violence, truth and social justice. Penned in the early twentieth century, their correspondence forms a powerful dialogue, sharing their philosophies of peaceful resistance, moral courage and spiritual awakening. These letters provide not just a historical record of their shared beliefs in non-violence and peace, but also a continuing dialogue that speaks to the challenges of the present day.
In Truth and Love, Gopalkrishna Gandhi (grandson of Mahatma Gandhi) and Daniil Tolstoy (descendant of Leo Tolstoy), offers a fresh, deep dive into the intellectual legacy, exploring the profound influence their ancestors had on one another, and reintroduces these iconic letters to modern audiences, while offering critical reflections on their ongoing relevance. It emphasizes the power of non-violence both as a practical and spiritual tool for social change, exploring its importance in a world that increasingly finds itself at the crossroads of global conflict, technological advancements and environmental crisis.
Gopalkrishna Gandhi is the grandson of Mahatma Gandhi. He is an acclaimed Indian writer, diplomat and historian, with extensive experience in public service, including serving as the Governor of West Bengal. He has contributed significantly to India’s political landscape and is widely respected for his scholarship on the moral and political philosophy of his grandfather. Gopalkrishna brings a deep understanding of Gandhi’s ideas, particularly in the context of modern political thought.
Daniil Tolstoy is a great-grandson of the Russian writer Leo Tolstoy. Based in Sweden, he is an academic, an organic farmer, and the publisher of his forebear's illustrated children's stories. He has dedicated time to researching the intellectual legacy of his ancestor, with a focus on Tolstoy’s evolving views on non-violence, social justice, and his engagement with Eastern philosophies.