Non Violence

GANDHI

Today is non-violence day. It is also the anniversary of Gandhi's birth. This great man brought about a significant change in India, inspiring it's people to stand up against the oppression of the British Raj through non-violent protest.

Ganhhi was not always such a saintly figure. His actions were the result of his willingness to make changes to move away from his rebellious and wayward days as a younger man.

Gandhi's non violent protests helped the Indian people to fight against the cruel domination of the British. The non-conformity approach was how a revolution was started - for, without cooperation - there was non domination. This means of solidarity stands true of today's global oppressions and continued ebbing away of our human rights. It will at some point in the future be the foundation of change - and again, likely met with violent opposition and conflict.

The cruel irony of Gandhi's plight was that he was, at the end of his life, the very victim of the violence he stood up against, by being shot three times in the chest by a Hindu extremist at point blank range.

His memory lives on. He has inspired generations of civil rights leaders like Nelson Mandela and Martin Luther King. His legacy continues to inspire many others to this day and his lessons on how to live a more purposeful life, taken in essence from the Bhagavad Gita, can be followed through the principles of Hatha yoga.