Describe satyagraha and swaraj.

Satyagraha:

Satyagraha, a term coined by Mahatma Gandhi, is a philosophy and method of nonviolent resistance. It combines the Sanskrit words "Satya," meaning truth, and "Agraha," meaning insistence or holding firmly. Satyagraha is rooted in the principle that truth has inherent power and that nonviolent resistance can be a potent force for social and political change.

In practice, satyagraha involves the following key principles:

1. Truth and Non-Violence: Satyagraha is grounded in the commitment to truth and non-violence (Ahimsa). It requires individuals to pursue their cause with honesty, integrity, and a refusal to resort to physical harm, even in the face of oppression.

2. Resistance to Injustice: Satyagrahis resist injustice through non-cooperation, civil disobedience, and other nonviolent means. The goal is to expose the moral and ethical flaws in oppressive systems and compel the oppressor to recognize the truth.

3. Appeal to Conscience: Satyagraha seeks to touch the conscience of the oppressor, appealing to their sense of justice and humanity. By willingly enduring suffering and demonstrating unwavering commitment to truth, satyagrahis aim to awaken a moral response in those in power.

4. Self-Purification: Practitioners of satyagraha engage in self-purification, striving to eliminate hatred and animosity from their hearts. This inner transformation is seen as essential for maintaining the purity and effectiveness of the nonviolent resistance.

Swaraj:

Swaraj, meaning self-rule or self-governance, is a central concept in Gandhi's political philosophy. It goes beyond the mere attainment of political independence and encompasses a holistic vision of individual and societal autonomy. Gandhi emphasized that true swaraj could only be achieved when individuals had control over their own lives and communities, fostering a decentralized and participatory system.

Key aspects of swaraj include:

1. Individual Empowerment: Swaraj begins with the empowerment of individuals. Gandhi advocated for self-discipline, self-reliance, and the cultivation of moral and spiritual strength. He believed that individuals must govern themselves before they can contribute to the governance of society.

2. Decentralized Governance: Swaraj rejects centralized and oppressive systems of governance. Gandhi envisioned a system where decision-making was decentralized, with local communities having the autonomy to address their specific needs and concerns.

3. Economic Self-Sufficiency: Swaraj extends to economic independence. Gandhi encouraged the revival of cottage industries and self-sufficient village economies to reduce dependency on external forces and promote economic well-being at the grassroots level.

4. Cultural and Spiritual Renewal: Swaraj involves a cultural and spiritual renewal, reconnecting with traditional values and ethical principles. Gandhi saw this renewal as crucial for building a just and harmonious society.

In summary, Satyagraha embodies the philosophy of nonviolent resistance, while Swaraj represents the holistic concept of self-rule, encompassing individual empowerment, decentralized governance, economic self-sufficiency, and cultural and spiritual renewal. Both concepts were integral to Gandhi's vision for a just and humane society.