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BOOK REVIEW - THIRD CLASS IN INDIAN RAILWAYS

 


The book ‘Third Class in Indian Railways’ written by M.K Gandhi is a series of short monologues to the educated class of pre-independence India. Gandhiji understands the fact that without the support of the educated class the dream of swaraj can never be achieved. The highly structured step by step manner by which different situations are explained is deeply appreciated.

The first chapter enlightens the addresses about the problem. Gandhiji gives an example of 3rd class railway travelling to show the indifference English sahib’s have towards the general Indian public. The second chapter provides us with the breaking point of Indian unification. Gandhiji presents the importance of languages by giving various examples from around the world.

The third and fourth chapters describe the process towards the goal. Gandhiji has carefully explained how absorbing the practices of Swadeshi and Ahimsa. One can achieve the ultimate goal. He also takes special care to address the misconceptions general mass have for such sensitive topics.

The fifth and final chapter bring into notice the suspected hindrances towards the process. People of India lacked cooperation and believed that their dressing and language was inferior. This caused loss of self-confidence and a great divide. Gandhiji tried to address this and even had an admonishing tone in the last chapter when he was talking about his indigenous dresses.

Any movement cannot be successful without the help of those in power. This book is an essential read for someone who wants to understand the fine lines of the Indian national movement. The presentation of thoughts is commendable. The change of tone that varies depending upon the sensitivity of subject discussed during the course of the book, has changed my perception of Mahatma Gandhi as a person.

This book brings into light one of those underrated links in the Indian national movement. Gandhiji understood the importance of educating the educated Indians to accelerate the ultimate goal of Swaraj. The title of the book camouflages the deep message Mahatma Gandhi has for his fellow citizens. Using this book as a case study, we learn how to pick the easily neglected link in any problematic situation.

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