Why I Killed Gandhi by Nathuram Godse

Book Summary 

Why I Killed Gandhi is a controversial and historically significant work written by Nathuram Godse, the assassin of Mahatma Gandhi. The book is essentially Godse's manifesto, in which he explains his reasons for the assassination of Gandhi on January 30, 1948. It presents Godse’s perspective, offering insight into his ideological beliefs and the motivations that led to one of the most pivotal events in modern Indian history.

In the book, Godse elaborates on his views about Gandhi’s philosophy, particularly his stance on non-violence (ahimsa) and his approach to Hindu-Muslim relations. Godse criticizes Gandhi for what he perceived as appeasement of Muslims, arguing that Gandhi’s policies weakened India’s Hindu identity and contributed to the partition's turmoil. He claims that Gandhi’s consistent efforts to promote peace and harmony with Muslims were detrimental to Hindu interests.

The narrative is a direct, unfiltered account of Godse’s ideology, written in a straightforward style. It reflects the deep-seated convictions that led him to take such drastic action, offering readers a glimpse into the mind of a man who believed he was acting in the nation’s best interest.

About the Author

Nathuram Godse (1910–1949) was an Indian nationalist and the assassin of Mahatma Gandhi. He was a member of the Hindu nationalist organization Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and later the Hindu Mahasabha. Godse held strong views against Gandhi’s policies on religious harmony and secularism, which he believed favored Muslims at the expense of Hindus.

After the assassination, Godse was tried, convicted, and sentenced to death. He was executed in November 1949. Why I Killed Gandhi was written as part of his defense during the trial, intending to justify his actions to the court and the public.

The book remains highly controversial due to its content and the historical implications of its message. It’s often studied in academic and political contexts to understand the complexities of India’s struggle for independence and the ideological divisions that emerged post-independence.