The Story of My Experiments with Truth

On a voyage with his family, Gandhi reflects on Hindu marital dynamics, revealing his initial attempts to “civilize” his family’s appearance and manners to resemble European standards. Adapting to Parsi attire and introducing his family to shoes and cutlery, he soon realized the importance of authentic self-expression. During the journey, a storm’s threat unified passengers across religious lines; although this unity was fleeting, it highlighted Gandhi’s comforting presence among the passengers. Reaching Durban, they encountered a politically motivated quarantine backed by white residents. Gandhi navigated this tension, championing Eastern values and nonviolence.

When the passengers disembarked, an angry mob attacked Gandhi, but one citizen’s bravery and police intervention ensured his safety. Despite having the option to prosecute his attackers, Gandhi chose forgiveness, attributing the incident to misleading local leadership. This stance earned admiration from influential figures.

Back in South Africa, when Gandhi was unjustly accused, he clarified his position using evidence from his speeches and writings. This led to a dual reaction: increased respect for Indian people but also heightened prejudice against them. In this environment, leadership introduced bills that discriminated against Indian people. In response, significant support arose for the Natal Indian Congress, leading Gandhi to set up a fund for it.