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Harilal Gandhi: The Eldest Son of Mahatma Gandhi

Brian Bell

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Published in Mahatma Vs Gandhi: Based On The Life Of Harilal Gandhi The Eldest Son Of Mahatma Gandhi

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Harilal Gandhi was the eldest son of Mahatma Gandhi. He was born in 1888 in Porbandar, Gujarat, India. His mother's name was Kasturba Gandhi. Harilal had two younger brothers, Ramdas and Devdas, and a younger sister, Manilal.

Harilal was a bright and intelligent child. He excelled in his studies and was a talented musician. He also had a strong sense of social justice and was deeply influenced by his father's teachings.

Mahatma Vs Gandhi: Based on the Life of Harilal Gandhi, the Eldest Son of Mahatma Gandhi

by Dana Milbank

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	793 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
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Print length	:	300 pages

However, Harilal also had a troubled side. He was often rebellious and impulsive, and he struggled with addiction and mental illness. In 1911, he married a young woman named Gulab, but the marriage was unhappy and they divorced in 1927.

Harilal's addiction and mental illness led him to estrange himself from his family. He spent many years living on the streets, begging for money. He also converted to Islam, which further alienated him from his Hindu family.

In 1936, Harilal was arrested for stealing a watch. He was sentenced to one year in prison. While in prison, he had a religious experience that led him to renounce his conversion to Islam and return to Hinduism.

After his release from prison, Harilal reconciled with his father. He returned to living with his family and worked as a teacher and social worker. He also became involved in the Indian independence movement.

Harilal Gandhi died in 1956 at the age of 67. He was a complex and troubled man, but he was also a deeply devoted son and father. His story is a reminder of the challenges that even the most extraordinary people can face.

Harilal Gandhi's Relationship with His Father

Harilal Gandhi had a complex and often difficult relationship with his father. Mahatma Gandhi was a towering figure in the Indian independence movement, and his son struggled to live up to his father's expectations.

Harilal was often rebellious and impulsive, and he frequently clashed with his father over his lifestyle choices. Mahatma Gandhi was a strict vegetarian and pacifist, while Harilal was a meat-eater and a heavy smoker.

Despite their differences, Mahatma Gandhi loved his son dearly. He wrote to Harilal in 1927, "I am not angry with you. I am only pained to see you going astray. I know that you have a good heart, and I believe that you will eventually find your way back to the right path."

In 1936, Harilal was arrested for stealing a watch. Mahatma Gandhi was deeply disappointed by his son's actions, but he refused to abandon him. He visited Harilal in prison and helped him to secure his release.

After Harilal's release from prison, he reconciled with his father. He returned to living with his family and worked as a teacher and social worker. He also became involved in the Indian independence movement.

Harilal Gandhi died in 1956 at the age of 67. Mahatma Gandhi had died two years earlier, but he had lived long enough to see his son find his way back to the right path.

Harilal Gandhi's Legacy

Harilal Gandhi was a complex and troubled man, but he was also a deeply devoted son and father. His story is a reminder of the challenges that even the most extraordinary people can face.

Harilal's legacy is one of resilience and redemption. He overcame his addiction and mental illness to become a respected teacher and social worker. He also reconciled with his father and became a devoted follower of his teachings.

Harilal Gandhi's story is a reminder that even the most troubled people can find redemption. It is a story of hope and forgiveness that can inspire us all.

Mahatma Vs Gandhi: Based on the Life of Harilal Gandhi, the Eldest Son of Mahatma Gandhi

by Dana Milbank

4.2 out of 5