Mahatma Gandhi In Jail

Summary

Mahatma Gandhi's daily routine in jail, as described by Kaka Kalelkar, Principal of Gujarat Vidyapith and his cellmate, followed a structured yet reflective pattern. The day began at 4:00 AM with waking up, followed by morning prayers and Gita recitation. Gandhi spent 30 minutes reading and writing while Kalelkar took a morning walk. Their discussions covered topics like the Gita, social ideals, and India's struggles. Breakfast at 6:00 AM consisted of curds and water-soaked dates, followed by milking goats and observing the playful kids. Gandhi then spent hours spinning yarn on his charkha (spinning wheel), often translating spiritual texts for Mirabai. Midday meals included curds, soda-bicarbonate, dates, boiled vegetables, and newspapers. Dietetics and nature cure were frequent topics. After meals, Gandhi resumed spinning, followed by lemon water with soda-bicarbonate. He used a *takli* (hand-spun tool) for spinning yarn, often smearing it with ashes for better grip. Evening meals mirrored breakfast, followed by walks where Gandhi admired celestial phenomena like constellations. Evening prayers at 7:00 PM synchronized with ashram boys and girls, despite the physical separation. Letters were written afterward, often addressing personal confessions or moral dilemmas. Gandhi emphasized prayer as essential as food and work, replying to queries about spiritual dryness. The day concluded with a 9:00 PM retirement, often sleeping outdoors under the stars, believing in starlight's beneficial effects. The text also includes a parable about the Pandavas, highlighting themes of discipline and sacrifice.