The English woman who followed Mahatma Gandhi and became a devoted supporter of his principles was Madeleine Slade, famously known as Mirabehn.
Mirabehn: A Life Devoted to Gandhi's Ideals
Mirabehn, born Madeleine Slade, was a remarkable British woman who made the extraordinary decision to leave her life in England in the 1920s to dedicate herself to Mahatma Gandhi and the Indian Independence Movement. Her commitment to Gandhi's philosophy of non-violence and self-sufficiency was unwavering, leading her to live and work closely with him for many years.
Key Details of Mirabehn's Life
To better understand her journey, here are some essential facts about Mirabehn:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Madeleine Slade |
| Other Names | Mirabehn, Meera Behn |
| Born | 22 November 1892 |
| Died | 20 July 1982 |
| Nationality | British |
| Role | Supporter of the Indian Independence Movement, follower of Mahatma Gandhi |
| Association | Left England in the 1920s to live and work with Gandhi |
| Life's Purpose | Devoted her life to human development and the advancement of Gandhi's principles |
Her Journey with Mahatma Gandhi
Mirabehn's decision to join Gandhi was driven by a deep spiritual and intellectual connection to his teachings. She was profoundly influenced by Romain Rolland's biography of Gandhi, which inspired her to seek a life of service and simplicity. Upon arriving in India, Gandhi accepted her as his disciple and gave her the name "Mirabehn," meaning "Sister Mira," after Mirabai, a devoted devotee of Krishna.
Her contributions extended beyond mere companionship:
- Active Participation: She actively participated in the Indian Independence Movement, including the Salt Satyagraha, and endured imprisonment for her activism.
- Rural Development: Mirabehn dedicated significant effort to promoting Gandhi's vision for rural development, focusing on village industries, sanitation, and education.
- Environmentalism: She was also a pioneering environmentalist, advocating for the protection of forests and wildlife, recognizing their importance for human well-being.
- Bridge Between Cultures: Her presence served as a unique bridge between Western and Indian cultures, demonstrating the universal appeal of Gandhi's message.
Mirabehn's life exemplifies a profound commitment to humanitarian ideals and a testament to the transformative power of following one's convictions. Her legacy continues to inspire those who seek to live a life of purpose, service, and devotion to principles of peace and non-violence.
For further reading, you can explore more about her life and contributions on platforms like Wikipedia.
