Home > Indian History > History of India > Theory of Satyagraha
Theory of Satyagraha
Theory of Satyagraha is entirely based on non-violence and in the path of truth.

Share this Article:

Theory of Satyagraha was mainly and entirely doctored by Mahatma Gandhi. Satyagraha is actually a political strategy and technique that for its outcomes depends on historical specifications. The action taken by the government differs from the idea that the goal in any conflict is actually to defeat the opponent or frustrate the opponent`s objectives or to meet one`s own aim inspite of the efforts of opponents to obstruct these. Whereas in Satyagraha there are no such goals, and the main objective is to convert, not to coerce the wrong-doers.

The concept of success is defined as cooperating with the opponent to meet a just end that the opponent is unwittingly obstructing. The opponent must be converted, at least as far as to stop obstructing the just end, for this cooperation to take place.

The main concept of Satyagraha sees ends and means are inseparable. The means also used to obtain an end are also wrapped up in and attached at the end. So it is contradictory to try and use unjust means to obtain justice or to try and use violence to get peace.

Satyagraha versus Duragraha
The main spirit of Satyagraha is that it looks to get rid of antagonism without actually harming the antagonists themselves, as opposed to violent resistance that is meant to cause harm to antagonists. Therefore, a Satyagrahi does not look to seek to destroy or end the relationship with antagonists, instead looks to seek to transform or purify it to higher level. It is seen that euphemism is often used for Satyagraha and is actually a "silent force" or a "soul force". It also arms the helps to arm the individual with moral power rather than physical power. Satyagraha is also termed as "Universal Force" as it essentially makes no distinction between stranger and kinsmen, old and young, woman and man, foe and friend.

Mahatma actually contrasted Satyagraha (holding on to truth) with the Duragraha (holding on by force), as in protest means more to disturb and harass than explain to opponents.

Non-Cooperation and Civil disobedience as practised under Satyagraha are based on the "Law of Suffering", a principle that the survival of misery is a way to finish. Usually, this end implies an ethical upliftment or improvement of a personality or culture. So, in fact, non-cooperation in Satyagraha is a way to secure the collaboration of the adversary steadily with reality and fairness.


Share this Article:

Related Articles

More Articles in History of India


History of Uttar Pradesh
The state was the heart of Mahabharata war and the history of Uttar Pradesh is very much the history of India. The place finds its mentions in Hindu epics Ramayana and Mahabharata.
History Of Archaeology In India
History of archaeology in India contributes a lot to define the past history and the social life of India.
Mughal Architecture during Babur
Mughal architecture during Babur marked the foundation of a new architectural era in India, blending Timurid, Persian, and local influences. His reign emphasized garden design, notably the Charbagh layout, and modest yet elegant structures. As the first Mughal emperor in India who introduced this architecture during 16th century Babur’s creations reflected symmetry, functionality, and a deep appreciation for nature.
Princely State of Patdi
Princely State of Patdi or Patri was incorporated as a part of the Baroda Agency, which was a sub division of Western India States Agency.
Architecture during Sayyid and Lodi Dynasty
Architectures during the Sayyid and Lodi dynasty were mainly the tombs and monuments for the dead rulers. It were carefully designed and meticulously constructed.
Brahmanical Sources of Ancient History
Brahmanical Sources of ancient history are contained in the Vedas and they constitute one of the most important literary sources of information about ancient India.
Female Education In British India
The over brimming enthusiasm among zealous Hindu reformers welcomed female education in British India.
Revenue System of Mauryan Empire
Revenue system of Mauryan Empire can be divided into eight categories. The principal revenue of the state was the land revenue, taxes from traders, artisans and professional taxes were also collected.
Mughal Architecture During Jahangir
Mughal architecture during Jahangir`s period was relative dull in comparison to that of Akbar dynasty.
Princely State of Satlasna
Princely State of Satlasna was amongst the former native states of India that was appointed as one of the Indian princely states during the early 19th century.
Coins of Chola Empire
Coins of Chola Empire were issued in gold, silver and copper and carried the Chola emblem.
Social Life during the Pala Period
Religious toleration and simple living were the characteristics of social life during the Pala period.
Coins of the Chalukya Dynasty
Coins of the Chalukya Dynasty was reintroduced in the South India after a brief break of coinage less period of nearly three century. Chalukyas issued coins only in gold and they exhibit a brilliant artistic skill of the engraver.
Costumes of Indus Valley Civilisation
Costumes of Indus valley Civilization have been considered as the basis for Indian clothes. Sophisticated ornaments and make up were used during that age.
Development of Science under Gupta Empire
Development of Science under Gupta Empire was progressive and it had attained considerable perfection. Mathematics, astronomy, medicine, chemistry, physics and metallurgy were the most prominent of the sciences at that time.
Culture under Delhi Sultanate
Culture under Delhi Sultanate had enduring aspects to it. It included the society, the religious condition, literature and art and architecture of that period.
Princely State of Hapa
Princely State of Hapa was incorporated as a part of the Baroda Agency, which was under the administrative control of the Western India States Agency.
Economy Under Chola Dynasty
Economy under Chola dynasty was strong and well developed. The economic life of the people of the Chola Kingdom was well balanced with their social life.
Coins of Khilji Dynasty
Coins of Khilji Dynasty had an influential feature that was followed by the other dynasties.
Religion During Mauryan Dynasty
Religion during Mauryan dynasty became a considerable episode in Indian history with an esteemed lineage of rulers.