Inaugural publication of 'Indian Opinion'.

Amidst the backdrop of a burgeoning struggle for justice, the first issue of 'Indian Opinion' was published. Spearheaded by Mahatma Gandhi, the publication emerged as a critical voice for the Indian diaspora living in South Africa. As a barrister and social activist, Gandhi recognized the dire need for a platform to address the injustices and discrimination faced by the Indian community in a foreign land. The newspaper was initially published in four languages: English, Gujarati, Hindi, and Tamil. This multilingual approach ensured that it reached the broadest possible audience within the Indian community, transcending linguistic barriers. 'Indian Opinion' focused on addressing social, economic, and political issues, offering news, opinions, and legal advice to its readers. It also served as a repository of the experiences and struggles of the Indian population, highlighting their contributions and challenges. The launch of 'Indian Opinion' was not merely the initiation of a publication but a strategic move in Gandhi's broader campaign for civil rights. It provided a structured platform for documenting the systemic injustices imposed by colonial authorities, such as the imposition of discriminatory laws and practices. By aggregating these experiences, the paper facilitated a coherent narrative that could be leveraged both locally and internationally to advocate for the rights and interests of the Indian community. The impact of 'Indian Opinion' was substantial. It helped to galvanize the Indian population in South Africa, providing a sense of unity and purpose. Furthermore, the newspaper played a crucial role in Gandhi's development of satyagraha, or non-violent resistance, which would later underpin his leadership in the Indian independence movement. The creation and dissemination of 'Indian Opinion' marked an essential step in the articulation and mobilization of non-violent civil disobedience as a tool for social and political change. #MahatmaGandhi #IndianOpinion #CivilRights #Satyagraha #MoofLife