Helped Kasturbai during Devadas' birth.

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 | Figures | Family Life |
Updated By: History Editorial Network (HEN)
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On a day towards the beginning of the 20th century, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, who later became known as Mahatma Gandhi, found himself in a moment deeply intertwined with both personal and professional aspects of his life. This day marked the birth of his fourth son, Devadas, to his wife Kasturbai. Gandhi assisted in the delivery, an event that underscored the intersection of his public and private spheres. At that time, Gandhi was residing in South Africa, where he was actively involved in the struggle for civil rights for the Indian community. Despite his demanding schedule, he demonstrated a commitment to his family, reflecting the simplicity and personal involvement he advocated in his public life. The birth of Devadas was a significant addition to the Gandhi family, bringing their number to six, and it provided Gandhi with renewed personal motivation amidst his socio-political endeavors. Gandhi's involvement in his wife's labor was not merely the role of a husband but also that of a participant in the practical aspects of life he often emphasized. This event highlighted his belief in self-sufficiency and the active role of individuals in domestic responsibilities. The birth of Devadas would eventually contribute to Gandhi's legacy through the actions and achievements of his son, who later engaged in journalism and politics, continuing the family's involvement in India's national activities. This occasion also underscored the use of traditional birthing methods and the reliance on family support systems prevalent in that period, long before the advent of modern medical facilities in colonial settings. This moment encapsulates themes of familial duty, personal involvement in domestic affairs, and the continual influence of one's personal life on broader historical movements. It serves as an illustrative episode in understanding the personal aspects of Gandhi's life that ran parallel to his public activism. #FamilyLife #HistoricalFigures #Gandhi #Birth #DomesticLife #SouthAfrica #Early1900s #MoofLife
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