Updated May 8, 2024 at 11:20 a.m.
Mahatma Gandhi began an iconic fast on this day in 1933 in protest against the British government's decision to separate the electoral system in India based on religion. He believed that the decision would lead to communal division and destroy Hindu-Muslim unity. Gandhi's fast lasted for a total of 21 days.
Get This Happened straight to your inbox ✉️ each day! Sign up here.
Was Gandhi's fast successful in achieving its goal?
Mahatma Gandhi's fast, along with the efforts of other leaders and activists, eventually led to the agreement known as the Poona Pact. This agreement ensured that the system of separate electorates for different communities was replaced with a system of reserved seats for the Dalit (Untouchable) caste in India's legislative assemblies.
Did Gandhi undertake other fasts during his lifetime?
Gandhi undertook several fasts during his lifetime as a means of nonviolent protest and as a form of spiritual purification. Some of his famous fasts include the fasts he undertook in protest of the violence between Hindus and Muslims in Calcutta in 1947 and his fast in protest of the communal violence in Delhi in 1948.
Did Gandhi suffer any health issues during his fast?
Gandhi experienced some health issues during his fast, including a drop in his blood pressure and weight loss. However, he continued with his fast and managed to complete it successfully.