Mahatma Gandhi is considered one of the most influential figures in the history of the modern world. His words and actions continue to inspire generations, and many of his teachings remain relevant even today. But despite his popularity, there are still plenty of things people don’t know about Gandhi. So let’s check out some of them.
Gandhi Was Friends With Tolstoy
Mahatma Gandhi had numerous famous friends, but his friendship with War and Peace writer Leo Tolstoy is particularly interesting. Gandhi was inspired by Tolstoy’s writing so much that he decided to send him a letter. Tolstoy responded, and the two became pen pals, exchanging letters on a frequent basis. Many actually believe that the last thing Tolstoy wrote before his death was a letter to Gandhi.
Gandhi got Married When He Was 13
Mahatma Gandhi married Kasturba Makanji at the age of 13 as part of an arranged marriage. The two had four children together and remained married even after Gandhi vowed to celibacy.
Gandhi Never Won a Nobel Peace Prize
Gandhi’s nonviolent resistance approach and teaching about peace would surely get him the Nobel Peace Prize, right? Well, it turns out that Gandhi never managed to win it despite being one of history’s most notable peacemakers and getting nominated five times for the award.
Gandhi Spent a Big Part of His Life in South Africa
Many people don’t know that Gandhi spent a big part of his life in South Africa. He lived there for 21 years and actually started his civil rights activism there after witnessing racism and other forms of discrimination.
