The Life Of Mahatma Gandhi

The author spent time with Gandhi a couple during different years of his last decade. He was an American reporter who was in the thick of things and knew world leaders such as FDR. The book had been recommended by someone who read it 50 years ago, who said it was one of the best books he’d read. I can see that. It was fascinating in terms of history, personality, and philosophy.

This is simply put one of the best books I have ever read. Half of the reason is of course the topic - Mohandas Gandhi, who is one of the most important religious persons to have lived. The other half is that it is well-written, packed with information, and by an accomplished author. While Fischer's shorter book, "Gandhi: His life and message" is more concise and also a triumph, anyone who has read it or is a Gandhi enthusiast should acquire a copy of this book and read it.

My goal is to read about leaders - I have list of leaders noted down Gandhi, Lenin, Che Guevara, Subash Chandra Bose, Hitler....I started this journey by reading Gandhi...with zero intention to get inspired and as well as heard/noted all negativities about him in modern times...but Gandhi stands out and inspires....he is a leader who will make a change in you without you realizing that there is a change happening..... I wonder how a man can be very clean, clear & sharp about his goals & decisions...the only reason is Gandhi chose Truth...he always did...India is a conservative land...Its hard for a well-known leader even today to place "truth" black & white without bothering the impacts it may bring to him...Gandi did not fear about losing his name, popularity or growth....he chose truth...You will sense that in the journey of reading this book. I am happy I chose Louis Fisher’s book....Louis Fisher stands out in his narrative....he goes into details without throwing facts on your face....before he talks about how Gandhi fought untouchability Louis Fischer explains how untouchability came into India....before he talks about how Gandhi got inspired by Bhagavat Gita, he explains what’s Bhagavad Gita....he explains the role of other leaders like Gokhle, Patel, Annie Besant, Rajagopalachari, Motilal Nehru, Nehru in Indian Independence fight and relation to Gandhi....he also draws a clear picture in presenting spiritual Gandhi and political Gandhi....its a biography presented like a fiction or story telling....you only want to read more....

Overall, a little tedious. It helps to be well versed in the history of Gandhi's time. The author neglects adequately filling in the historical and political background into which Gandhi is plunged in both South Africa and some of the regions of India. While he doesn't neglect this altogether, at times his brush strokes are a little too broad or superficial. Finally, the author fails to show the source of Gandhi's esteem and worship by the Indian people. He seems to paint around the edges, but misses Gandhi's "Je ne sais quois" altogether. To his credit the author sticks to what he knows about Gandhi without speculating about the essence of his greatness.

Louis Fischer recounts Gandhi's remarkable life while, at the same time, adding his insightful political and spiritual views. The style is lively and learned. Gandhi was ahead of his time and humankind still has a lot to learn from him. This book sure makes justice to Gandhi's timeless message. Enjoy it.

Louis Fischer gives a very clear view of how Mohandas Gandhi grew into the great Mahatma, his writing is very clear and concise. I am enjoying researching Gandhi again. He includes details that I have not found elsewhere. It is a very good read.

This is best biography of Mahatma Gandhi of all I have ever read. I strongly recommend it to any body interested in the Mahatma.

As promised.

One of the best books i have read so far.... defintely for each and evryone.... but still there is enough to know about our Rashtarpita...

Great book. The Movie was based on this wonderful book.

Nice read, widens knowledge and opinions.

Zur vor-Rezension: Dafür, dass Gandhi entscheidend das globale Politikgefüge veränderte, dürfen auch die Heldentaten schnörkellos beschrieben werden. Es ist gut, nach Gandhis "Experimenten mit der Wahrheit" eine etwas weniger subjektive Beschreibung seines Lebensweges zu lesen - unbedingt empfehlenswert für Interessierte

This was a wonderful read, I could hardly put it down. I knew the film "Gandhi", but had no in depth knowledge of his life. This book, written by someone who knew Gandhi well, is a revelation. It is truly inspirational, especially in these days of venal politicians and fake news. The moral integrity of Gandhi is absolutely inspiring. I would recommend anyone to read this book - it will change the way you look at the world.