# Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi — The Story of My Experiments with Truth character guide > Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi in The Story of My Experiments with Truth by Mahatma Gandhi. **Role:** major **Also known as:** Mr. Gandhi, Gandhi, Mahatma, Gandhibhai **First appearance:** 0002-the-story-of-my-experiments-with-truth ## Snapshot A shy Bania boy who ate meat in secret, lied to his father, and grew into the man who would turn self-scrutiny into a political weapon. ## Who they are Born the youngest son of a short-tempered but incorruptible diwan, he stumbles through childhood — stealing, smoking, and once eating goat's meat to prove his courage — while haunted by remorse. His marriage to Kasturbai at thirteen and his father's deathbed become early wounds he never stops examining. What makes him compelling is not saintliness but the stubborn habit of turning every failure into an experiment, which is why the book's first half reads less like a monument and more like a confession. ## In the story ### [Translator's Preface](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/translator-s-preface) Author of the autobiography, whose meaning was carefully revised by himself. ### [Part I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/the-story-of-my-experiments-with-truth) The author and narrator, reflecting on his early life and experiments with truth. ### [Birth and Parentage](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-i-i-birth-and-parentage) The author and narrator, born in Porbandar in 1869, reflecting on his family background and early childhood. ### [Childhood](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-i-ii-childhood) The narrator, recalling his childhood experiences in Rajkot, his shyness, honesty, and the moral lessons from plays. ### [Child Marriage](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-i-iii-child-marriage) The narrator, married at thirteen, reflects on the event with shame and regret. ### [Playing the Husband](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-i-iv-playing-the-husband) Reflects on his youthful jealousy, possessiveness, and failed efforts to educate Kasturbai, acknowledging his lustful love as an obstacle. ### [At the High School](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-i-v-at-the-high-school) Narrator and subject of the chapter; reflects on his school experiences, character, and academic challenges. ### [A Tragedy](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-i-vi-a-tragedy) Narrates his childhood fears, desire for strength, and secret meat-eating experiment influenced by a friend. ### [A Tragedy (Continued)](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-i-vii-a-tragedy-continued) Describes his internal conflict, guilt, and decision to abstain from meat while his parents are alive; reflects on his moral lapses and jealousy towards his wife. ### [VIII: Stealing and Atonement](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-i-viii-stealing-and-atonement) Narrates his childhood thefts and the transformative experience of confessing to his father. ### [My Father’s Death and My Double Shame](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-i-ix-my-father-s-death-and-my-double-shame) The narrator, a sixteen-year-old student and devoted son, who feels deep shame for his lustful thoughts and actions during his father's final illness. ### [Glimpses of Religion](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-i-x-glimpses-of-religion) Recounts his childhood religious experiences and growing conviction that truth is the basis of all morality. ### [Preparation for England](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-i-xi-preparation-for-england) The narrator and protagonist, determined to go to England for legal studies. ### [Outcaste](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-i-xii-outcaste) The narrator and protagonist, determined to go to England despite caste opposition. ### [In London at Last](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-i-xiii-in-london-at-last) Arrives in London, struggles with shyness, language barriers, and cultural adaptation; adheres to vegetarian vow; feels homesick but resolves to stay. ### [XIV: My Choice](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-i-xiv-my-choice) Narrates his experience in England, his vow of vegetarianism, and his search for a vegetarian restaurant. ### [Playing the English Gentleman](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-i-xv-playing-the-english-gentleman) Deepens his study of vegetarianism, resists peer pressure to eat meat, and briefly adopts English gentlemanly pursuits before abandoning them. ### [Changes](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-i-xvi-changes) Narrates his experiments in frugality, self-discipline, and academic pursuits in England. ### [Experiments in Dietetics](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-i-xvii-experiments-in-dietetics) Narrator and subject of the chapter; conducts dietary experiments and reflects on vows. ### [Shyness My Shield](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-i-xviii-shyness-my-shield) Describes his shyness in public speaking, his role in the Vegetarian Society committee, and his written protest against Dr. Allinson's exclusion. ### [The Canker of Untruth](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-i-xix-the-canker-of-untruth) Narrates his experience as a student in England, his initial dissembling about being married, and his eventual confession to an elderly widow. ### [Acquaintance with Religions](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-i-xx-acquaintance-with-religions) Explores religious texts including the Gita, The Light of Asia, and the Bible; attends Bradlaugh's funeral; declines joining the Theosophical Society. ### [XXI: निर्बल के बल राम](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-i-xxi) Narrates his spiritual trial at Portsmouth, reflecting on God's saving grace and the importance of prayer. ### [XXII: Narayan Hemchandra](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-i-xxii-narayan-hemchandra) Narrator and friend to Narayan Hemchandra; lives frugally, cooks for himself, and acts as interpreter during the visit to Cardinal Manning. ### [The Great Exhibition](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-i-xxiii-the-great-exhibition) Visits the Paris Exhibition, ascends the Eiffel Tower, stays at a vegetarian restaurant, and reflects on the spiritual significance of churches. ### [Called—But Then?](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-i-xxiv-called-but-then) Narrates his experience of being called to the bar, his rigorous study of law, and his feelings of helplessness despite passing the examinations. ### [My Helplessness](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-i-xxv-my-helplessness) The narrator, feeling helpless and anxious about his legal career. ### [Raychandbhai](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-ii-i-raychandbhai) Reflects on his spiritual search and his return to India, learning of his mother's death. ### [How I Began Life](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-ii-ii-how-i-began-life) Returns to India, faces caste excommunication, attempts legal practice, and reflects on personal reforms and relationships. ### [The First Case](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-ii-iii-the-first-case) Narrates his early legal career in Bombay, including his first case and decision to avoid court. ### [The First Shock](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-ii-iv-the-first-shock) Returns to Rajkot to practice law, compromises on commission principle, and suffers a humiliating encounter with a British officer. ### [Preparing for South Africa](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-ii-v-preparing-for-south-africa) Depressed by the political intrigues in Kathiawad and seeking to leave India, he accepts a one-year contract to work for Dada Abdulla and Co. in South Africa. ### [Arrival in Natal](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-ii-vi-arrival-in-natal) Narrator and protagonist; departs for South Africa, reflects on his relationship with his wife, and undergoes moral trials during the voyage. ### [Some Experiences](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-ii-vii-some-experiences) Arrives in Durban, observes social dynamics, refuses to remove turban in court, and defends his action in the press. ### [On the Way to Pretoria](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-ii-viii-on-the-way-to-pretoria) Prepares for the Pretoria case, studies bookkeeping, and experiences racial discrimination on the train at Maritzburg. ### [More Hardships](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-ii-ix-more-hardships) Persists in seeking first-class travel despite racial insults and physical assault; uses legal knowledge and personal appeal to secure a ticket. ### [First Day in Pretoria](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-ii-x-first-day-in-pretoria) Arrives in Pretoria alone, finds lodging with help from a stranger, meets Mr. Baker, and begins to reflect on religious study. ### [Christian Contacts](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-ii-xi-christian-contacts) Engages in religious discussions, attends prayer meetings, and defends his Vaishnava necklace. ### [Seeking Touch with Indians](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-ii-xii-seeking-touch-with-indians) Delivers his first public speech, organizes meetings, teaches English, and studies Indian conditions in Pretoria. ### [What It Is to Be a “Coolie”](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-ii-xiii-what-it-is-to-be-a-coolie) Narrates his personal experiences of racial discrimination in South Africa, including being kicked off a footpath and obtaining a late-night pass from Dr. Krause. ### [Preparation for the Case](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-ii-xiv-preparation-for-the-case) Narrator and central figure; gains legal experience and learns the value of compromise in Pretoria. ### [Religious Ferment](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-ii-xv-religious-ferment) Engages in intense religious questioning, attends the Wellington Convention, corresponds with religious authorities, and studies various scriptures. ### [Man Proposes, God Disposes](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-ii-xvi-man-proposes-god-disposes) Attends his own farewell party, discovers the Indian Franchise Bill, and decides to stay to lead the opposition. ### [Settled in Natal](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-ii-xvii-settled-in-natal) Organizes the community's opposition to the Franchise Bill, drafts petitions, and decides to settle in Natal after securing legal retainers. ### [Colour Bar](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-ii-xviii-colour-bar) Applies for admission as an advocate, faces opposition from the Law Society, and obeys the court order to remove his turban. ### [Natal Indian Congress](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-ii-xix-natal-indian-congress) Founder and secretary of the Natal Indian Congress; leads fundraising, organizes meetings, and writes pamphlets for propaganda. ### [Balasundaram](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-ii-xx-balasundaram) Acts as legal advocate for Balasundaram, securing his release from an abusive employer and becoming a trusted figure among indentured laborers. ### [The £3 Tax](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-ii-xxi-the-3-tax) Organizes opposition to the £3 tax and leads the Natal Indian Congress campaign. ### [Comparative Study of Religions](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-ii-xxii-comparative-study-of-religions) Narrator and central figure; engaged in comparative religious study and self-introspection. ### [As a Householder](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-ii-xxiii-as-a-householder) Narrator and central figure; reflects on his household experiment, trust, and moral awakening. ### [Homeward](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-ii-xxiv-homeward) Narrates his voyage home, his language studies, and his spiritual discussions with the captain. ### [In India](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-ii-xxv-in-india) Returns to India, writes the Green Pamphlet, and volunteers for sanitation work during the plague outbreak. ### [Two Passions](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-ii-xxvi-two-passions) Reflects on his loyalty to the British Constitution and his passion for nursing, and seeks advice from prominent leaders in Bombay. ### [The Bombay Meeting](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-ii-xxvii-the-bombay-meeting) Attends the Bombay meeting, writes and delivers a speech, and reflects on his resolve to serve in South Africa. ### [Poona and Madras](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-ii-xxviii-poona-and-madras) Travels to Poona and Madras to build support for the South African cause, meeting key political figures and addressing public meetings. ### [Return Soon](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-ii-xxix-return-soon) Arrives in Calcutta to rally support for the South African cause, faces rejection, but gains an ally in Mr. Saunders before being recalled to Durban. ### [I: Rumblings of the Storm](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iii-i-rumblings-of-the-storm) Narrator and central figure; reflects on his role as husband and teacher, his views on civilization, and his actions during the storm. ### [The Storm](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iii-ii-the-storm) Leads and comforts passengers during the quarantine, delivers a speech on Western civilization, and maintains nonviolent principles despite threats. ### [The Test](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iii-iii-the-test) Arrives in Durban, assaulted by mob, refuses to prosecute assailants. ### [The Calm After the Storm](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iii-iv-the-calm-after-the-storm) Narrates the aftermath of the lynching, his interview, and his work expanding the Natal Indian Congress. ### [Education of Children](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iii-v-education-of-children) Reflects on his educational experiments with his children, his struggles to provide them with proper schooling, and his justification for prioritizing home education and liberty over formal degrees. ### [Spirit of Service](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iii-vi-spirit-of-service) Narrates his shift from legal work to service, nursing a leper and volunteering at St. Aidan's Mission hospital, and studying child-rearing. ### [Brahmacharya—I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iii-vii-brahmacharya-i) The narrator and central figure, grappling with the decision to take a vow of brahmacharya. ### [Brahmacharya—II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iii-viii-brahmacharya-ii) Takes the vow of brahmacharya in 1906, reflects on its practice and challenges. ### [Simple Life](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iii-ix-simple-life) Narrator and protagonist; practices self-help by washing his own collars and cutting his own hair, embracing simplicity and imperviousness to ridicule. ### [The Boer War](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iii-x-the-boer-war) Organizes and leads the Indian ambulance corps during the Boer War, driven by loyalty to the British Empire. ### [Sanitary Reform and Famine Relief](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iii-xi-sanitary-reform-and-famine-relief) Leads sanitary reform and famine relief efforts in Natal. ### [Return to India](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iii-xii-return-to-india) Decides to return to India, struggles with accepting costly gifts, and ultimately creates a trust to return them for community service. ### [In India Again](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iii-xiii-in-india-again) Returns to India, attends the Congress session in Calcutta, observes and criticizes the lack of service, untouchability, and insanitation, and personally cleans latrines. ### [Clerk and Bearer](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iii-xiv-clerk-and-bearer) Offers his services at the Congress office, performs clerical work, and assists Sjt. Ghosal with personal tasks. ### [In the Congress](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iii-xv-in-the-congress) Nervous and overwhelmed at his first Congress, he presents a resolution on South Africa with Gokhale's support but is disheartened by the lack of genuine debate. ### [Lord Curzon’s Durbar](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iii-xvi-lord-curzon-s-durbar) Stays in Calcutta, joins the India Club, and later stays with Gokhale; observes and reflects on the durbar. ### [A Month with Gokhale—I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iii-xvii-a-month-with-gokhale-i) Narrator and observer of Gokhale's habits and teachings; advocates for exercise and simplicity. ### [A Month with Gokhale—II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iii-xviii-a-month-with-gokhale-ii) Narrates his experiences in Calcutta, including meeting Christian Indians and visiting the Kali temple. ### [A Month with Gokhale—III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iii-xix-a-month-with-gokhale-iii) Narrator and protagonist; explores religious institutions, meets prominent figures, and embarks on a third-class tour. ### [In Benares](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iii-xx-in-benares) Narrator and protagonist; travels third class, visits Kashi Vishvanath temple, and calls for reform of railway conditions. ### [Settled in Bombay?](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iii-xxi-settled-in-bombay) Reflects on his legal career, his reluctance to use flattery, and his decision to move to Bombay. ### [Faith on Its Trial](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iii-xxii-faith-on-its-trial) Gandhi is the narrator and central figure, grappling with the moral dilemma of adhering to his vegetarian principles while his son is critically ill. ### [To South Africa Again](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iii-xxiii-to-south-africa-again) Narrates his return to South Africa, his professional life in Bombay, and his decision to leave his family behind. ### [Love's Labour's Lost?](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-i-love-s-labour-s-lost) Leads the Indian deputation, prepares the case for Indians in Transvaal, and secures a permit with help from Superintendent Alexander. ### [Autocrats from Asia](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-ii-autocrats-from-asia) Enters the Transvaal with a permit and is summoned by the Asiatic Department chief, who orders him to leave and forbids him from meeting Mr. Chamberlain. ### [Pocketed the Insult](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-iii-pocketed-the-insult) Advises the community to swallow the insult of being excluded from the deputation, decides to stay in the Transvaal and set up a legal practice in Johannesburg. ### [Quickened Spirit of Sacrifice](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-iv-quickened-spirit-of-sacrifice) Narrator and central figure; reflects on his past decisions regarding life insurance and his changing spiritual outlook. ### [Result of Introspection](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-v-result-of-introspection) Deepens study of the Gita, memorizes verses, and adopts non-possession and equability as guiding principles. ### [A Sacrifice to Vegetarianism](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-vi-a-sacrifice-to-vegetarianism) Narrates his deepening commitment to vegetarianism as a mission, his financial misstep in lending trust money, and the lesson he learned from the experience. ### [Experiments in Earth and Water Treatment](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-vii-experiments-in-earth-and-water-treatment) Narrates his personal health struggles and experiments with earth and water treatments. ### [A Warning](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-viii-a-warning) Author and subject; reflects on his dietary experiments, spiritual convictions, and the compromise of his vow for milk. ### [A Tussle with Power](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-ix-a-tussle-with-power) Leads the effort to expose corruption in the Asiatic Department, collects evidence, and cooperates with the Police Commissioner. ### [A Sacred Recollection and Penance](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-x-a-sacred-recollection-and-penance) Recounts a domestic conflict with his wife over cleaning a chamber pot, reflecting on his past blindness as a husband and his evolving views on marriage and brahmacharya. ### [Intimate European Contacts](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-xi-intimate-european-contacts) Narrator and central figure; describes his practice of living with English friends and his method of writing the autobiography as an experiment with truth. ### [European Contacts (Continued)](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-xii-european-contacts-continued) Narrates his need for clerical help and his hiring of European stenographers in Johannesburg. ### [Indian Opinion](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-xiii-indian-opinion) De facto editor and financial backer of Indian Opinion; poured his soul into its columns and used it to expound satyagraha. ### [XIV: Coolie Locations or Ghettoes?](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-xiv-coolie-locations-or-ghettoes) Legal adviser for Indian tenants in Johannesburg location; sets aside half his fees for a hospital; works closely with indentured laborers. ### [The Black Plague—I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-xv-the-black-plague-i) Cycled to the location, wrote to the Town Clerk, and nursed plague patients through the night. ### [The Black Plague—II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-xvi-the-black-plague-ii) Leads the nursing effort, uses earth treatment, and recruits Mr. West for the press. ### [Location in Flames](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-xvii-location-in-flames) Coordinates plague relief, acts as banker for location residents, and advises Indians to comply with Municipality orders. ### [The Magic Spell of a Book](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-xviii-the-magic-spell-of-a-book) Narrator and protagonist; reflects on his credulity and the impact of Ruskin's book. ### [The Phoenix Settlement](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-xix-the-phoenix-settlement) Leads the establishment of the Phoenix Settlement, inspired by 'Unto This Last'. ### [The First Night](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-xx-the-first-night) Leads the effort to publish the first issue, suggests using hand-power, and works alongside carpenters. ### [Polak Takes the Plunge](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-xxi-polak-takes-the-plunge) Reflects on his plans for Phoenix Settlement and his inability to stay there permanently; invites Polak and MacIntyre to join his office. ### [Whom God Protects](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-xxii-whom-god-protects) Treats his son's broken arm with earth poultices; encourages Polak and West to marry; acts as best man at Polak's wedding. ### [A Peep Into the Household](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-xxiii-a-peep-into-the-household) Describes his household reforms, parenting philosophy, and conviction to prioritize character and mother-tongue education over literary training. ### [The Zulu “Rebellion”](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-xxiv-the-zulu-rebellion) Forms and leads the Indian Ambulance Corps, nurses wounded Zulus, and dispenses prescriptions for white soldiers. ### [Heart Searchings](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-xxv-heart-searchings) Reflects on the Zulu rebellion, ponders brahmacharya, and takes the vow of lifelong celibacy. ### [The Birth of Satyagraha](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-xxvi-the-birth-of-satyagraha) Narrator and central figure, reflecting on the origins of satyagraha and his personal experiments. ### [More Experiments in Dietetics](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-xxvii-more-experiments-in-dietetics) Narrator and subject of the dietary experiments, seeking purity and self-restraint. ### [Kasturbai’s Courage](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-xxviii-kasturbai-s-courage) Refuses to allow beef tea for his wife, even at risk of her death, and supports her decision to reject it. ### [Domestic Satyagraha](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-xxix-domestic-satyagraha) Narrates his experiments with self-restraint and diet, and initiates a domestic satyagraha by vowing to give up salt and pulses. ### [Fasting](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-xxxi-fasting) Describes his personal experiments with fasting for self-restraint and brahmacharya, and his role in encouraging others at Tolstoy Farm to join in fasting. ### [As Schoolmaster](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-xxxii-as-schoolmaster) Assumes the role of paterfamilias and teacher at Tolstoy Farm, focusing on character building and manual training. ### [Literary Training](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-xxxiii-literary-training) As the teacher, he struggles with exhaustion and limited literary knowledge but uses oral instruction and honesty to educate students on Tolstoy Farm. ### [Training of the Spirit](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-xxxiv-training-of-the-spirit) Teacher and spiritual guide at Tolstoy Farm, reflecting on his methods and a pivotal moment of corporal punishment. ### [Tares Among the Wheat](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-xxxv-tares-among-the-wheat) Defends his educational philosophy of mixing good and bad children. ### [Fasting as Penance](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-xxxvi-fasting-as-penance) Imposes a seven-day fast and a four-and-a-half-month vow of one meal a day as penance for the moral lapse of two Ashram inmates; later undertakes a fourteen-day fast. ### [To Meet Gokhale](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-xxxvii-to-meet-gokhale) Narrator and central figure; travels third class, discusses simplicity, and struggles with health after a fast. ### [My Part in the War](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-xxxviii-my-part-in-the-war) Arrives in England, organizes Indian volunteers for war service, undergoes first aid training, and helps sew clothes for soldiers. ### [A Spiritual Dilemma](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-xxxix-a-spiritual-dilemma) Author and protagonist, wrestling with the spiritual dilemma of reconciling ahimsa with wartime service. ### [Miniature Satyagraha](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-xl-miniature-satyagraha) Leads the Volunteer Corps and attempts to mediate the conflict with the Commanding Officer, ultimately falling ill with pleurisy. ### [XLI: Gokhale’s Charity](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-xli-gokhale-s-charity) Suffering from pleurisy, he defends his fruitarian diet and refuses to take milk despite pressure from Gokhale and Dr. Jivraj Mehta. ### [Treatment of Pleurisy](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-xlii-treatment-of-pleurisy) Suffers from pleurisy, adheres to dietary vows, and follows Dr. Allinson's advice. ### [Some Reminiscences of the Bar](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-xliv-some-reminiscences-of-the-bar) Narrator and central figure, reflecting on his legal practice and adherence to truth. ### [Sharp Practice?](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-xlv-sharp-practice) Argues the case before the Supreme Court, defends himself against the judge's suspicion of sharp practice, and secures a favorable outcome. ### [Clients Turned Coworkers](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-xlvi-clients-turned-coworkers) Reflects on his legal practice in the Transvaal, his commitment to truth, and how his honesty earned client trust. ### [How a Client Was Saved](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-iv-xlvii-how-a-client-was-saved) Advises Rustomji to confess and negotiates with authorities to settle the case without trial. ### [The First Experience](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-i-the-first-experience) Returns to India, reflects on the Phoenix party's placement, and protests the use of English at a Gujarati reception. ### [With Gokhale in Poona](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-ii-with-gokhale-in-poona) Arrives in Bombay, meets the Governor, and travels to Poona to meet Gokhale and the Servants of India Society. ### [Was It a Threat?](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-iii-was-it-a-threat) Travels third class, advocates for removal of Viramgam customs cordon, and defends satyagraha as a nonviolent remedy. ### [Shantiniketan](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-iv-shantiniketan) Visits Shantiniketan, proposes and oversees a self-help cooking experiment, and leaves upon receiving news of Gokhale's death. ### [Woes of Third-Class Passengers](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-v-woes-of-third-class-passengers) Narrates his struggles as a third-class passenger and his regret over compromising truth for his wife's comfort. ### [Wooing](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-vi-wooing) Narrates his efforts to join the Servants of India Society after Gokhale's death, ultimately withdrawing his application to preserve unity. ### [Kumbha Mela](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-vii-kumbha-mela) Narrator and central figure; travels to Rangoon, attends Kumbha Mela, leads volunteer work, and takes a vow of dietary restriction. ### [Lakshman Jhula](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-viii-lakshman-jhula) Reflects on his past decisions regarding the sacred thread and shikha, and discusses religious symbols with a Swami. ### [Founding of the Ashram](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-ix-founding-of-the-ashram) Founder of the Satyagraha Ashram, decides on Ahmedabad as the location and names the Ashram. ### [X: On the Anvil](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-x-on-the-anvil) Leads the Ashram, decides to accept the untouchable family, and manages internal and external opposition. ### [Abolition of Indentured Emigration](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-xi-abolition-of-indentured-emigration) Leads the all-India agitation against indentured emigration, meets with Viceroy, tours the country, and endures third-class travel hardships. ### [The Stain of Indigo](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-xii-the-stain-of-indigo) Narrator and protagonist, agrees to visit Champaran after persistent urging by Rajkumar Shukla. ### [The Gentle Bihari](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-xiii-the-gentle-bihari) Arrives in Bihar to investigate the condition of ryots, decides to abandon legal recourse in favor of freeing peasants from fear. ### [Face to Face with Ahimsa](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-xiv-face-to-face-with-ahimsa) Leads the inquiry into Champaran agriculturists' grievances, disobeys order to leave, and faces trial. ### [Case Withdrawn](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-xv-case-withdrawn) Leads the Champaran struggle, pleads guilty in court, and receives permission to conduct the inquiry. ### [Methods of Work](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-xvi-methods-of-work) Leads the Champaran inquiry, decides on funding and methods, and interacts with planters and C.I.D. officers. ### [Penetrating the Villages](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-xviii-penetrating-the-villages) Organizes village schools, medical relief, and sanitation; narrates experiences of poverty and volunteer work. ### [When a Governor Is Good](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-xix-when-a-governor-is-good) Leads the inquiry into ryots' grievances, negotiates with the government, and serves on the committee. ### [A Peep Into the Ashram](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-xxi-a-peep-into-the-ashram) Describes the Ashram's relocation and his personal attraction to the site near the Sabarmati Central Jail. ### [The Fast](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-xxii-the-fast) Undertakes a fast to prevent the mill-hands from breaking their strike pledge; reflects on the moral implications of fasting against mill-owners. ### [The Kheda Satyagraha](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-xxiii-the-kheda-satyagraha) President of the Gujarat Sabha; advises the Patidars to resort to satyagraha after petitions fail. ### [The Onion Thief](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-xxiv-the-onion-thief) Leader of the Kheda Satyagraha, advising on principles of satyagraha and directing the onion removal action. ### [End of Kheda Satyagraha](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-xxv-end-of-kheda-satyagraha) Leads the Kheda Satyagraha and negotiates its end; expresses dissatisfaction with the settlement's lack of grace but acknowledges the campaign's lasting impact. ### [Passion for Unity](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-xxvi-passion-for-unity) Attends the Viceroy's war conference in Delhi, driven by a passion for Hindu-Muslim unity and a desire to support the Ali brothers' release and the Khilafat cause. ### [Recruiting Campaign](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-xxvii-recruiting-campaign) Attends the Viceregal conference, supports the recruiting resolution, writes a letter to the Viceroy, and leads the recruiting campaign in Kheda. ### [Near Death's Door](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-xxviii-near-death-s-door) Narrator and central figure, suffering from severe dysentery and fever, refusing medical aid and meat-based remedies, and later undergoing ice treatment. ### [The Rowlatt Bills and My Dilemma](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-xxix-the-rowlatt-bills-and-my-dilemma) Recovering from illness, he reads the Rowlatt Committee report and initiates the satyagraha movement against it, while also struggling with the moral compromise of taking goat's milk. ### [That Wonderful Spectacle!](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-xxx-that-wonderful-spectacle) Narrates the chapter; conceives the idea of a hartal in a dream; travels to Madras despite weak health; discusses civil disobedience strategy. ### [That Memorable Week!—I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-xxxi-that-memorable-week-i) Narrator and central figure; organizes the hartal, sells proscribed literature, is arrested and detained. ### [That Memorable Week!—II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-xxxii-that-memorable-week-ii) Meets with Commissioner Griffith in Bombay, argues for nonviolence, then returns to Ahmedabad to address the crisis, declares a penitential fast and suspends satyagraha. ### [A Himalayan Miscalculation](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-xxxiii-a-himalayan-miscalculation) Reflects on his Himalayan miscalculation and works to educate the public on satyagraha. ### [Navajivan and Young India](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-xxxiv-navajivan-and-young-india) Decides not to proceed to the Punjab despite pressure, takes over editorship of Young India and Navajivan, and uses them to educate the public on satyagraha. ### [XXXV: In the Punjab](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-xxxv-in-the-punjab) Narrator and central figure; organizes the non-official inquiry into Punjab atrocities and drafts the report. ### [XXXVI: The Khilafat Against Cow Protection?](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-xxxvi-the-khilafat-against-cow-protection) Attends the Delhi conference, argues against mixing Khilafat and cow protection, introduces the term 'noncooperation', and debates boycott strategies. ### [The Amritsar Congress](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-xxxvii-the-amritsar-congress) Narrates his role in the Amritsar Congress, his advocacy for accepting the reforms, and his distress over differing with esteemed leaders. ### [Congress Initiation](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-xxxviii-congress-initiation) Describes his real entrance into Congress politics and his roles as trustee and constitution framer. ### [The Birth of Khadi](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-xxxix-the-birth-of-khadi) Narrator and central figure; describes his ignorance of spinning, his impatience to learn, and his discovery of Gangabehn. ### [XL: Found at Last!](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-xl-found-at-last) Led the khadi movement, experimented with spinning, and advocated for hand-spun cloth. ### [An Instructive Dialogue](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-xli-an-instructive-dialogue) Defends the khadi movement and explains his focus on hand-spun cloth to empower rural women. ### [XLII: Its Rising Tide](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-xlii-its-rising-tide) Narrator and central figure; drafts the noncooperation resolution, corrects omission of 'nonviolent,' and incorporates swaraj demand. ### [At Nagpur](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-xliii-at-nagpur) Presented the draft constitution and participated in the debates on delegate numbers and the goal of swaraj. ### [Farewell](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/chapters/part-v-farewell) Author and narrator, reflecting on his experiments with truth and ahimsa, and his decision to conclude the autobiography. ## Links - HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/characters/mohandas_gandhi - Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se - All characters: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_story_of_my_experiments_with_truth_se/characters