Since childhood, I was very curious about Mahatma Gandhi. I used to wonder what makes him Mahatma. I knew all the history lesson and his greatness as described in the History books. But I really was curious why he was known around the world. I remember one incident back in 2008 when I first came to the USA which was my first experience being outside my country. Where I was once asked by an American on a domestic flight to Atlanta where I am from? I replied that “I am from India” and very next words she said Ahhh… “Gandhi” and she went on. I was astonished and puzzled at the same time. Like we in India hardly after seeing his photos on Indian rupees note to mention his name but this stranger in a foreign land moment, she heard India she remembers, Gandhi. This incident got stuck with me. Until fate had it after 10 years on a different flight in 2018 where I was on my way to the holy city of Mecca to perform Umrah which is Muslim pilgrimage. I met a stranger sitting next to my seat. Soon I got engaged in deep talks with him, we talked about everything about life, travel and I found him very intellectual as well. Now knowing me and my quest for growth and do entrepreneurial stuff in life he suggested me to read a book name ‘Gandhi The Man’. He said this is not a book about a history lesson but it’s more about Gandhiji’s transformation from a simple man to Mahatma. How one man changed himself to change the world, I was very intrigued and made a note. I bought the book and I started reading on my trip to Canada in August 2018. This book had a deep impact on me and I would like to share some of its lessons as understood and perceived by me. 

Gandhiji was a simple man. Just like you and me with his own set of belief, fears, and ambitions. His early life was nothing short of an ordinary man’s life. So what was the turning point? He was always curious to understand and experiments with his life. He was aware of the fact about his own shortcomings and actively observed life and took steps towards personal development. His days in South Africa were the one when he got connected with Human relationship. He understood the importance or I may say the larger picture of Life about we all being one. Like we all humans belong to one Universe and interpersonal connections. He began to feel a deep love for everyone and had deep sympathy towards human misery. He deeply meditated and started setting very strict and discipline routine in his life. He said Bhagwat Gita was his spiritual teacher he implemented teaching of the Gita in his life and actions. He ardently followed his Spiritual practice such as observing silence every Monday, eating just enough, meditation daily, evening walks and prayers. Something every Spiritual leader and figure has in common. He was more of a Spiritual leader than a political figure who just happened to help India achieve independence. 

The key lesson learned that stood out from the book is that Gandhiji turned inward, he tried to understand himself first, he transformed himself by overcoming his shortcomings and fears before he was quoted as Mahatma. It’s said that to change something first change yourself and Gandhiji’s life is a classic example of this saying. Gandhi very well said

“Be the Change you wish to see in the World”   

This message really resonated within me deeply. Every day every second all we are trying is to change someone else, blame someone for our own shortcomings without understanding that the only thing that needs to be changed is YOU. Look deep inside within yourself and understand your inner workings. Try to meditate and observe a silent time in reflection and find an answer to this question Who am I? What I am doing here? How am I related and connected to everything? What Can I do to help others? How can I help my fellow human beings to reduce their misery? Spending quiet time with yourself in solitude and peace is key steps towards looking inwards and transforming yourself.

Love MB …..