The Dandi March: Gandhi’s Historic Act of Civil Disobedience

JUNE 19, 2023

In 1930, Mahatma Gandhi led a historic and symbolic protest against British rule in India. This act of civil disobedience, known as the Dandi March, was a pivotal moment in the country’s struggle for independence.

On March 12th, Gandhi and a group of 78 volunteers set out on a 241-mile march from the Sabarmati Ashram in Gujarat to the coastal town of Dandi. Their mission was to protest against the British monopoly on salt, which was a vital commodity in Indian society at the time.

As they walked, Gandhi and his followers gained support from people across the country. Villagers offered them food and shelter, and crowds of people joined the march along the way.

On April 5th, after 24 days of walking, the group finally reached the shores of Dandi. Gandhi picked up a handful of salt from the beach, breaking the British law that made it illegal for anyone but the British to produce or sell salt.

This simple act of defiance was a powerful symbol of resistance against British rule in India. It inspired millions of Indians to join the independence movement, and helped to bring global attention to their cause.

The Dandi March was a turning point in Gandhi’s career as a leader, and in the history of Indian independence. It proved that nonviolent civil disobedience could be an effective weapon against colonial oppression, and demonstrated the power of ordinary people to bring about change.

Today, the Dandi March is remembered as a landmark event in India’s history, and a testament to the courage and determination of the people who fought for their freedom.