Mahatma Gandhi undertook numerous fasts throughout his life, with durations varying from a single day to as long as 21 days, primarily as tools for political protest, personal purification, and social reform during India's independence movement. His most famous fasts, such as the 21-day fast in 1943 while imprisoned in Poona, highlighted his commitment to nonviolence amid British colonial rule.

Key Fasts Overview

Gandhi completed about 15-17 major fasts, often breaking them early if his demands were met or for health reasons. Here's a breakdown of notable ones:

Fast Date| Duration| Purpose| Outcome 15
---|---|---|---
1932 (Yeravda Jail)| 6 days| Protest separate electorates for "untouchables"| British reversed decision; fast broken early 10
1943 (Poona Prison)| 21 days (longest)| Purification; protest jail conditions| Released briefly; health monitored amid global attention 38
1947 (Delhi)| 5-6 days| Unity between Hindus/Muslims post-Partition| Payment disputes resolved; violence subsided temporarily
1948 (Final, New Delhi)| ~17 days (until death)| Stop communal riots| Assassinated before full end; symbolized sacrifice 67

These durations are well-documented in historical records, though some shorter vows (1-3 days) were private.

Health and Impact

Gandhi, often in his 70s during longer fasts, endured weight loss, low blood pressure, and weakness but viewed fasting as spiritual discipline rooted in Hindu/Jain traditions. His 1943 fast drew international scrutiny, with British officials consulting doctors, yet he persisted without forced feeding.

A poignant story : In 1943, at age 73, Gandhi began his epic 21-day fast in a small prison cell, sipping only water amid sweltering heat. Supporters outside rallied, and even jailers worried as his pulse weakened—yet he emerged resolute, amplifying global calls for India's freedom, which arrived in 1947.

Multiple Perspectives

  • Political View : Fasts pressured Britain and unified Indians, per historians.
  • Critics' Take : Some saw them as emotional blackmail; Reddit forums note health risks, linking his final fast to exhaustion before assassination.
  • Modern Trending Context : Fasting communities online (e.g., r/fasting) hail Gandhi's feats for discipline, though warn against extremes today—no recent 2026 news spikes, but his legacy trends in wellness discussions.

TL;DR : Gandhi's fasts ranged 1-21 days , peaking at 21 in 1943; they fueled nonviolent resistance.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.