Introduction:
Subhash Chandra Bose and Mahatma Gandhi were two iconic leaders of India’s freedom struggle. While both aimed at achieving independence from British rule, their strategies, ideologies, and methods were markedly different, reflecting contrasting visions of how freedom could be attained.
Main Body
Differences in Approaches of Gandhi And SC Bose :
Aspect | Mahatma Gandhi | Subhash Chandra Bose |
Ideology | Believed in non-violence (Ahimsa) and truth (Satya) as guiding principles | Advocated militant nationalism and direct action against colonial rule |
Method of Struggle | Mass civil disobedience, peaceful protests, non-cooperation, Satyagraha | Formation of Indian National Army (INA) and armed struggle against British |
Approach to Masses | Mobilized peasants, workers, and urban population through ethical and moral appeal | Inspired youth and revolutionaries to join military campaigns and revolutionary activities |
Use of Force | Rejected violence under all circumstances eg : suspension of Chauri chaura incident
| Embraced armed struggle as necessary for immediate independence |
Strategy | Gradual political reforms, negotiations, and moral pressure on British | Immediate and uncompromising independence through military and revolutionary action |
International Alliances | Focused primarily on internal mobilization and moral pressure | Sought foreign assistance, including alliances with Axis powers during WWII |
Philosophical Emphasis | Ethical, spiritual, and moral dimensions of freedom | Nationalist, urgent, and action-oriented vision of independence |
Note : similarities can be added via Venn diagram
Conclusion:
Mahatma Gandhi and Subhash Chandra Bose represented two complementary but contrasting paths in India’s freedom struggle. Both approaches together strengthened the broader movement for India’s independence.
