An Exemplary work Encompassing the untouched Aspects of Indian Freedom Movement

Dr. G.A. Biradar’s book on ‘Mahatma Gandhi’s Campaign against untouchability in Karnataka’ elaborately documents the considerable efforts put in by Gandhiji, to visit various parts of Karnataka, propagating the need for eradicating the inhuman practice of untouchability, by uplifting the living conditions of the Harijans, by facilitating financial assistance for them.  The main objective of his campaign was not only to bring the Harijans to the main stream, but also to collect     resources for the intended project.  Biradar’s book also gives fresh insights into several other untouched aspects of the    Indian Freedom Movement.

At the very outset, the author enthusiastically acclaims Karnataka as the abode of a great number of religious reformers, who had already tried to alleviate the sufferings of the untouchability.  It is the land where the Vachanakaras like Basavanna had brought about a social revolution through their movements unparalleled in human history.  Biradar’s book renders the vivid details about Gandhiji’s visits to various parts of Karnataka and the royal manner in which he was received everywhere.  The people were so moved by the words of   Mahatma that men as well as women voluntarily came up with their liberal contributions in the form of cash, things or gold ornaments.  Several pages of the book are devoted to the    depiction of people’s interaction with Gandhiji in important places of Karnataka like Bijapur, Kolar, Bellary, Bengaluru, Tumkur, Mysore, Mangalore, Coorg Province, Madras Presidency and Bombay Presidency.

Gandhiji’s campaign in Karnataka was followed by the political leaders of India - irrespective of casts and creed - attempting to reform the Hindu society through legislative measures in the subsequent days.  But they did not have an immediate effect.  The untouchability Abolition Bill was introduced in 1933 in the Madras Legislative Assembly for adoption.  But the bill was lapsed.  The opinions were   collected and recorded that the disabilities of the depressed classes should be removed root and branch - in a peaceful manner by social reform carried on in an intensive manner, and not by legislation.

The book, towards the end gives a picture of the balanced views of people from different sections of the society, and the eminent leaders of various communities and bureaucrats.  Most of the educated Hindus were in favour of the Bill to provide for the removal of social disabilities.

Thus the book provides a comprehensive picture of the   attempts that were made by Mahatma Gandhi together with the leaders of Karnataka to eradicate the evil practice of     untouchability prevalent in the Hindu society.  Though there were some stray protests and deliberate withdrawal of the Harijans, it was a great success.  This historic movement is something to be recorded and documented for the future     generation, and for this reason, Dr. G.A. Biradar’s book should undoubtedly be appreciated.  His simple and unassuming style of presentation and lucidity of expression gives an experience of a smooth and pleasant reading to any kind of reader.

                                                                                                     Prof. Parvathi G. Aithal

Courtesy: Sthithigathi Quarterly, October-December, 2011