Q. What was the difference between Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore in their approach towards education and nationalism? (150 words, 10 Marks)
Why the Question?
UPSC PYQ – CSE Mains – 2023
Keywords of the Question
- Mahatma Gandhi
- Rabindranath Tagore
- Approach
- Education
- Nationalism
Directive Word
What was the difference –Identify and explain the distinct characteristics or aspects of the subjects in question. Compare and contrast the key elements, highlighting how they diverge from each other. Provide specific examples or evidence to support the differences mentioned. It focuses on clearly delineating the unique features and approaches of the subjects being compared.
How to approach this Question?
Introduction
- Brief Introduction: Introduce Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore, mentioning their contributions to India’s freedom struggle and their influence on education and nationalism.
Body
- Approach towards Education:
- Mahatma Gandhi: Outline Gandhi’s educational philosophy and methods.
- Rabindranath Tagore: Outline Tagore’s educational philosophy and methods.
- Approach towards Nationalism:
- Mahatma Gandhi: Describe Gandhi’s views and actions related to nationalism.
- Rabindranath Tagore: Describe Tagore’s views and actions related to nationalism.
Conclusion
- Summarize Key Differences: Summarize the key differences in their approaches, highlighting their unique contributions to education and nationalism in India.
Note: Please note that the following ‘answers’ are not ‘model answers’ nor are they synopses in the strictest sense. Instead, they are content designed to meet the demands of the question while providing comprehensive coverage of the topic.
Answer Key
Introduction
Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore were two stalwarts in Indian history, each carving out distinct paths in the nation’s freedom struggle and societal development. Gandhi led India to independence through non-violent civil disobedience, while Tagore, the first non-European Nobel laureate, provided a robust intellectual foundation for the emerging nation.
Body
Difference in Approach towards Education
- Philosophy:
- Mahatma Gandhi: Advocated for practical education focused on holistic development and moral values.
- Rabindranath Tagore: Believed in a flexible, creative, and global approach to education, emphasizing the harmonic development of a human being.
- Curriculum:
- Mahatma Gandhi: Promoted a craft-centered education encouraging self-sufficiency and vocational training.
- Rabindranath Tagore: Envisioned an education system fostering creativity through art, music, and dance.
- Teaching Method:
- Mahatma Gandhi: Preferred hands-on teaching methods to cultivate a sense of dignity of labor.
- Rabindranath Tagore: Encouraged open environments, including open-air classes, to nurture students’ natural curiosity.
- Institutions:
- Mahatma Gandhi: Established basic education institutions grounded in the philosophy of ‘Nai Talim’.
- Rabindranath Tagore: Founded Shantiniketan, where learning was closely integrated with nature and art.
- Global Influence:
- Mahatma Gandhi: Less concerned with aligning the education system with global trends.
- Rabindranath Tagore: Advocated for an education in touch with global movements, enriching one’s understanding of the world.
- Focus:
- Mahatma Gandhi: Emphasized individual-centric education aimed at character building.
- Rabindranath Tagore: Focused on nurturing universal human values and fostering a deep appreciation for the interconnectedness of all beings.
- Language:
- Mahatma Gandhi: Focused on using vernacular languages for early education.
- Rabindranath Tagore: Emphasized the use of English as part of a global movement.
Difference in Approach towards Nationalism
- Perspective on Unity:
- Mahatma Gandhi: Advocated for a united India, overcoming regional and communal divides.
- Rabindranath Tagore: Had reservations about intense nationalism, promoting a more universal brotherhood.
- Means to Achieve Freedom:
- Mahatma Gandhi: Leveraged non-violent civil disobedience and non-cooperation movements.
- Rabindranath Tagore: Criticized aggressive nationalistic movements, preferring a path of self-awareness and reasoning.
- View on Western Influence:
- Mahatma Gandhi: Often critical of Western civilization, emphasizing Swaraj or self-rule.
- Rabindranath Tagore: Embraced modern and progressive ideals from the West while maintaining a critical stance.
- Role in Freedom Struggle:
- Mahatma Gandhi: Actively led movements and mobilized masses for a collective goal.
- Rabindranath Tagore: Maintained a more philosophical and educational stance, nurturing intellectual discourse.
- Perspective on Culture:
- Mahatma Gandhi: Promoted Swadeshi and encouraged indigenous culture and products.
- Rabindranath Tagore: Appreciated universal values and encouraged a synthesis of different cultures, fostering international harmony.
- Vision for Post-Independent India:
- Mahatma Gandhi: Envisioned a self-sufficient village economy grounded in non-violence.
- Rabindranath Tagore: Aspired for a nation with a rich cultural tapestry, nourished by education and universal human values.
Conclusion
Both Gandhi and Tagore were monumental figures in Indian history, crafting divergent paths towards the development of society and education. Their efforts have significantly shaped the Indian educational landscape and societal norms, leaving a profound imprint on the nation’s ethos.