Que. Highlight the differences in the approach of Subhash Chandra Bose and Mahatma Gandhi in the struggle for freedom. 

स्वतंत्रता के लिए संघर्ष में सुभाषचन्द्र बोस एवं महात्मा गाँधी के मध्य दृष्टिकोण की भिन्नताओं पर प्रकाश डालिए।

Structure of the Answer

(i) Introduction: Present a brief overview of the contrasting ideologies and strategies of Subhash Chandra Bose and Mahatma Gandhi in the freedom struggle.

(ii) Main Body: Discuss their differing philosophies, methods of resistance, views on leadership, mass mobilization strategies, and visions for post-colonial India.

(iii) Conclusion: Summarize how despite their different approaches, both leaders significantly contributed to the Indian freedom struggle and shaped national identity.

Introduction

Subhash Chandra Bose and Mahatma Gandhi were pivotal figures in the Indian freedom struggle, each advocating distinct approaches to achieving independence. Their differences in ideology, strategies, and visions for post-colonial India reflect their unique perspectives on national liberation.

Philosophical Differences

(i) Ideology of Nationalism: Bose emphasized militant nationalism and believed in the use of force to achieve freedom, viewing armed struggle as essential. In contrast, Gandhi promoted non-violence (ahimsa) and civil disobedience as the core tenets of his approach to resistance.

(ii) Role of the Masses: Gandhi believed in mobilizing the masses through grassroots movements, engaging people from all strata of society. Bose focused on an elite-driven approach, aiming to inspire leaders and mobilize armed forces for swift action against colonial rule.

(iii) Views on British Rule: Bose considered British imperialism an immediate threat that needed urgent action, advocating for direct confrontation. Gandhi viewed British rule as a challenge to be met through sustained non-violent resistance and moral persuasion.

(iv) Concept of Swaraj: For Bose, Swaraj (self-rule) entailed complete independence and self-defense, often advocating for cooperation with Axis powers for military support. Gandhi envisioned Swaraj as self-governance rooted in ethical living and self-sufficiency, emphasizing socio-economic reforms.

(v) Perspective on Society: Gandhi sought to address social issues like untouchability and economic inequalities through his movements. Bose prioritized military and political strategies over social reforms, focusing on uniting various nationalist factions for a common cause.

Methods of Resistance

(i) Non-Violence vs. Armed Struggle: Gandhi’s method was grounded in satyagraha (truth force), which sought to attain political goals through peaceful protests. In contrast, Bose believed in direct action, including armed rebellion, to achieve independence swiftly.

(ii) Role of the Indian National Congress: Gandhi worked within the framework of the Indian National Congress, promoting unity and non-violent resistance. Bose eventually broke away, forming the Forward Bloc and aligning with militaristic ideologies to challenge colonial rule effectively.

(iii) International Alliances: Bose sought international support for his cause, aligning with Japan and Germany during World War II, believing in the necessity of external military support. Gandhi focused on building a strong internal movement based on ethical principles, distancing himself from foreign alliances.

(iv) Youth Engagement: Bose galvanized the youth through the Indian National Army (INA), inspiring them with a vision of armed resistance. Gandhi appealed to young people through campaigns like the Quit India Movement, encouraging them to adopt non-violent methods of protest.

(v) Propaganda and Communication: Bose used modern technology and propaganda to rally support for armed struggle, emphasizing a militaristic approach. Gandhi employed simple, accessible means of communication to spread his message of non-violence, emphasizing mass participation.

Visions for Post-Colonial India

(i) Political Structure: Bose envisioned a strong, centralized government with an emphasis on military capability to safeguard national interests. Gandhi dreamed of a decentralized, village-based system, where local self-governance would empower communities.

(ii) Social Reform: Gandhi emphasized social harmony and upliftment of marginalized communities, integrating these principles into the freedom struggle. Bose was more focused on political independence and less on immediate social reform, believing political liberation would eventually lead to social progress.

(iii) Economic Policies: Gandhi advocated for self-reliance through Khadi and local industries, promoting sustainable economic practices. Bose favored a more radical economic transformation, aiming for industrialization and modernization to strengthen India’s position globally.

(iv) Legacy and Influence: Both leaders left lasting legacies but with different emphases. Gandhi is celebrated for his philosophy of non-violence and moral leadership, while Bose is remembered for his call to arms and dedication to militant nationalism.

(v) Unity vs. Diversity: Gandhi sought to unify diverse groups within the freedom movement through a common philosophy. Bose aimed to bring together various factions through a shared objective of armed resistance, even at the cost of ideological differences.

Conclusion

While Subhash Chandra Bose and Mahatma Gandhi differed significantly in their approaches to the struggle for independence, both made profound contributions that shaped the course of India’s freedom movement. Their legacies continue to inspire future generations.