Gandhi’s Ideas Remain Relevant today, Says Prof. Mridula Mukherjee
The enduring relevance of Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy, particularly his vision of Swaraj (self-rule), was underscored by noted historian Prof. Mridula Mukherjee on Tuesday.
Delivering the keynote lecture at the GITAM School of Humanities and Social Sciences, GITAM (Deemed to be University), the former Professor at the Centre for Historical Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi, asserted that Gandhi’s ideas continue to hold immense importance for those who deeply engage with his life and communication strategies.
Prof. Mukherjee’s lecture, titled “Swaraj of Mahatma Gandhi’s Dreams: Reflections on Contemporary India,” recounted various phases of Gandhi’s monumental freedom struggle, connecting them to present-day challenges.
A key focus of her address was Gandhi’s unique ability to connect with the Indian masses, a skill she attributed to his masterful use of traditional terminology. Prof. Mukherjee specifically cited the term Rama Rajya as a prime example. While Gandhi frequently used it, he never intended it to signify Hindu rule. Instead, she clarified, he employed the term to describe an ideal state based on true democracy and equal opportunities.
“Gandhi often explained that religion is like a tree with many branches, each essential to the strength and unity of the whole. Unfortunately, some sections have misinterpreted his idea of Rama Rajya,” Prof. Mukherjee observed, stressing that for Gandhi, the term conveyed a universal vision of justice, harmony, and equality in language that resonated widely across communities.
Prof. Mukherjee also highlighted that Gandhi’s philosophies continue to influence global thought, particularly during times of crisis. She stressed that this enduring impact on policy and social ideals affirms the timeless nature of his principles.
The session concluded with an interactive discussion, where students and faculty raised thoughtful questions on Gandhi’s ideology and its profound relevance in contemporary India.