## Kasturba Gandhi Biography ##

Kasturba Gandhi (11 April 1869 – 22 February 1944) was a renowned Indian freedom fighter, social reformer, and the wife and lifelong companion of Mahatma Gandhi. Affectionately known as "Ba" (Mother), she played a crucial but often overlooked role in India's struggle for independence from British rule. Through her courage, strength, and deep dedication to social justice, Kasturba emerged as a leader in her own right, inspiring countless women to join the national movement.Kasturba was born Kasturba Kapadia into a wealthy merchant family in Porbandar, now in Gujarat, India. Her father, Gokuldas Kapadia, was a successful businessman. Like many girls of her time, she received little formal education and was mostly trained in household chores. At the age of thirteen, she entered into an arranged marriage with Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, a common occurrence in 19th-century India. Both were young and inexperienced, and their early married life was filled with misunderstandings and adjustments.Over time, their relationship blossomed into a deep partnership built on mutual respect and shared ideals. When Gandhi studied law in London and later began his career in South Africa, Kasturba adapted to the new environment and challenges. The strength of her character became even more evident when she supported her husband's emerging philosophy of truth (satya) and non-violence (ahimsa).Kasturba's political awakening began in South Africa, where the Gandhi family lived from 1893 to 1914. During this time, Mohandas Gandhi developed his philosophy of Satyagraha—non-violent protest against injustice. Kasturba stood firmly with him, participating in protests against discriminatory laws imposed on Indians.

In 1913, she participated in a protest against the South African government's registration laws and was arrested. Her imprisonment was a pivotal moment: she demonstrated that women could endure hardship and bravely stand up for political causes. Despite the difficult conditions in prison, Kasturba persevered and encouraged fellow protesters.After returning to India in 1915, Kasturba became fully involved in the Indian independence movement. She participated in major campaigns led by her husband, including the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920–22), the Civil Disobedience Movement (1930–34), and the Quit India Movement (1942). While Gandhi was in prison, Kasturba often addressed gatherings and encouraged people to continue peacefully resisting British rule.During the Salt Satyagraha in 1930, inspired by Gandhi's famous Dandi March, Kasturba rallied women to join the struggle. She firmly believed in women's empowerment and urged them to rise above traditional household chores. Her speeches emphasized self-reliance, unity, and moral courage.Kasturba was arrested several times by British authorities. In 1932, she was imprisoned for participating in civil disobedience activities. Even in prison, she advocated for better treatment of prisoners and maintained her commitment to nonviolence.In addition to political activism, Kasturba Gandhi was also dedicated to social reform. She worked tirelessly for the welfare of women and to eradicate untouchability, a deeply ingrained social evil in India. At the Sabarmati Ashram, she took charge of daily chores and taught women and children cleaning, spinning, and basic education.

She promoted khadi (hand-spun cloth) as a symbol of economic independence and national pride. Her simple life reflected her belief in self-discipline and service. Kasturba also supported basic education for girls, believing that empowering women with knowledge and self-confidence was essential for social change.In August 1942, after the Quit India Movement began, both Kasturba and Mahatma Gandhi were arrested and detained at the Aga Khan Palace in Pune. While in prison, Kasturba's health deteriorated significantly. She developed chronic bronchitis and later suffered serious complications.Despite medical attention, her condition continued to deteriorate. She died next to Gandhiji at the Aga Khan Palace on February 22, 1944. Her death was a great loss to the nation and to her husband, who considered her his moral support and steadfast companion.Kasturba Gandhi's life is an example of courage, sacrifice, and quiet strength. Although her image is often overshadowed by the towering figure of Mahatma Gandhi, her contribution to India's freedom struggle was immense. She broke social barriers by actively participating in protests and encouraging women to exercise their rights and responsibilities in public life.Today, Kasturba is remembered as a symbol of courage and perseverance. Institutions, educational programs, and memorials across India honor her.