Understanding Gandhi: Gandhians in Conversation with Fred J Blum

Understanding Gandhi is a collection of interviews conducted by Fr d J. Blum (1914 1990), of six of Mahatma Gandhi s closest associates-J.B. Kriplani, Raihana Tyabji, Dada Dharmadhikari, Sushila Nayar, Jhaver Patel and Sucheta Kripalani. The interviewees reflect on Gandhi s ideas in the light of changes that took place in India after Independence. The book provides glimpses of Gandhi s ideas and working relationship with his colleagues who came from a wide range of backgrounds, professions and geographical regions. It also brings out the thoughts of Gandhi and his followers on several important issues such as Satyagraha, non-violence, Brahmacharya, spirituality, and fasting. This blend of an intimate knowledge of Gandhi and the reflective hindsight gives the book a unique vantage point that promotes a holistic understanding of Gandhian thought and philosophy.

During the 1970s and 1980s, Fred J. Blum, an American academic, initiated and carried out the Gandhi Interview Project, during which he interviewed 24 close associates of the late Mohandas K. "Mahatma" Gandhi and asked them to reflect on the life, activities, and philosophy of the revered Indian independence leader and advocate of satyagraha. This volume reproduces six of those interviews, with J.B. Kripalani, Raihana Tyabji, Dada Dharmadhikari, Sushila Nayar, Jhaver Patel, and Sucheta Kripalani. Annotation ©2011 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Understanding Gandhi is a compilation of six of the 24 interviews conducted by Fred J. Blum (1914-90), academician and Consultant to the US Senate Committee on Labor and Public Welfare, revealing to us his many of his qualities and understanding of truth, spirituality, non-violence and Satyagraha, among others. These conversations allow us insights into the dynamics of Gandhi's relationship with his colleagues, unearthing dormant memories and impressions, as each person recalls Gandhi as he/she knew him. This book is a must-read for all interested in Gandhian thought as it provides the reader with fresh glimpses of his thoughts on many issues of critical importance in these times.