Abul Kalam Azad and M. K. Gandhi: An Example of Composite Nationalism in a Multicultural Society
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Abstract
This paper will try to scrutinise the relationship between Abul Kalam Azad and M. K. Gandhi vis-a-vis the Indian National Movement. It was their relationship, which to a large extent motivated and inspired both the Hindus and Muslims in the pluralistic society of India to struggle against the colonial rule unitedly. Azad was among those nationalist Muslims of India, who promoted and propagated the idea of Hindu-Muslim unity along with Gandhi, and other leaders of the Indian National Congress. After joining the Indian National Congress formally, Azad participated in various programs started by Gandhi and Congress. From Non-Co-operation to the Civil Disobedience Movement, Azad fully supported Gandhi, to fight against the imperial power. Azad along with Gandhi, was a symbol of ‘Composite Nationalism’. However, when it comes to the idea of Non-Violence, Azad did not agree with Gandhi.
This paper will also try to analyse the response of Azad towards the Quit India Movement. Besides, the present study will try to discuss role of Azad and Gandhi in the partition of India. Azad appreciates Gandhi for being principled but expressed his extreme disappointment in his stance on partition and how the Vallabhai Patel-Jawaharlal Nehru-Lord Mountbatten trio influenced Gandhi’s political decision-making.