[LETTERS Logo]

     ------------------------------------------------------------------

     Mahatma Gandhi (who signs this letter as "Bapu") wrote this letter
     to Jawaharlal Nehru, future prime minister of India, shortly
     before Gandhi began his "Salt Satyagraha," a march to the sea
     coast to make salt, which was illegal under British Rule. The
     letter shows Gandhi's remarkable calm and resolve in the face of
     personal danger. Gandhi was arrested repeatedly for his acts of
     civil disobedience. Although not, strictly speaking, a Christian,
     Gandhi's belief in nonviolence was strongly influenced by
     Tolstoy's writings on Christianity, as well as Christ's teaching
     to "turn the other cheek."

       The British Parliament passed the Indian Independence Act in
     July 1947, and it took effect the following month. Gandhi was
     assassinated by a Hindu fanatic on January 30, 1948, shortly after
     completing a hunger strike which was instrumental in bringing
     about a truce between fighting Hindus and Muslims.

     ------------------------------------------------------------------

     MARCH 11, 1930

     MY DEAR JAWAHARLAL,

       It is nearing 10 p.m. now. The air is thick with the rumour that
     I shall be arrested during the night. I have not wired to you
     especially because the correspondents submit their messages for
     approval and everybody is working at top speed. There was nothing
     special to wire about.

       Things are developing extraordinarily well. Offers of volunteers
     are pouring in. The column will proceed with the march even though
     I may be arrested. If I am not, you may expect wires from me,
     otherwise I am leaving instructions.

       I do not know that I have anything in particular to say. I have
     written enough. I gave a final message this evening to a vast
     crowd that gathered for prayer on the sands.

       May God keep you and give you strength to bear the burden.

                            With love to you all,
                                    Bapu

       From A Bunch of Old Letters, Jawaharlal Nehru, Asia Publishing
                            House, Bombay, 1960.

                               [End of Letter]

       [Cover Page]  [Letters to the Editor] [Contributing Letters]

                      [Subscription Info] [Next Page]

ÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿÿ