The Polaks and Gandhi: A Unique Relationship

Summary

The book *The Polaks and Mahatma Gandhi: A Unique Relationship* by Dr. Prabha Ravi Shankar explores the close association of Henry and Millie Polak with Mahatma Gandhi and their involvement in the Indian struggle for human rights in South Africa. The study examines their contributions to Gandhi’s Satyagraha Campaign, their intellectual independence, and their continued engagement with Indian affairs after returning to England. It also analyzes their relationship with Gandhi, particularly after he became the leader of the Indian National Congress, and their role in the Indian National Movement. The book is structured into eleven chapters, covering Henry Polak’s early life, Millie Polak’s personality and contributions to women’s welfare, the Polaks’ activities in South Africa, Henry’s visits to India, their involvement in the Passive Resistance Movement, and Henry’s role as editor of *India*. It also delves into the political disagreements between Polak and Gandhi on issues like the Rowlatt Satyagraha, the Non-Cooperation Movement, and the Quit India Movement, while highlighting their enduring personal friendship. The final chapters assess the Polaks’ understanding of Gandhi as a leader and their lifelong friendship. Dr. Sudhakar praises the book as a well-researched, pathbreaking work based on primary sources, noting its readability and scholarly rigor. The study provides a detailed account of the Polaks’ intellectual and political engagement with Gandhi and their lasting impact on the Indian freedom struggle.