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Gandhi: An Illustrated Biography
Rarely seen images and rigorous research provides fascinating insight into one of the most revered figures in modern Indian history.
Gandhi is an intimate history of the evolution of a mischievous, fun-loving boy into the Mahatma. From his schooling and early marriage in Kathiawar to his first brushes with the grandeur of London; from his chance employment for a legal case in South Africa to a train ride in Pietermaritzburg that led to his first fight for equality; from a relatively unsuccessful lawyer to a globally celebrated crusader for human rights-Gandhi was that rare rebel who redefined the meaning of mass resistance for generation to come. The chronological text and rarely seen photographs bring out his unique complexities for a new generation of readers.
Gandhi is an intimate history of the evolution of a mischievous, fun-loving boy into the Mahatma. From his schooling and early marriage in Kathiawar to his first brushes with the grandeur of London; from his chance employment for a legal case in South Africa to a train ride in Pietermaritzburg that led to his first fight for equality; from a relatively unsuccessful lawyer to a globally celebrated crusader for human rights-Gandhi was that rare rebel who redefined the meaning of mass resistance for generation to come. The chronological text and rarely seen photographs bring out his unique complexities for a new generation of readers.
328 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2015
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503 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
May 18, 2018
Woop woop! This is how you write and design a biography. In 2018 I want to read more nonfiction, especially biographies and memoirs, to educate myself on histories and conflicts from all over the world. Kapoor’s biography on Gandhi definitely got the job done and made me super excited to check out more books from that genre.
Prior to reading this illustrated biography, I knew next to nothing about India’s non-violent independence movement against British rule and I wasn’t familiar with Gandhi as a person or leader. The only thing I knew (and the reason why I picked up this biography) was the fact that Martin Luther King, Jr. was inspired by Gandhi’s take on non-violent civil disobedience and used some of his teachings during the African American civil rights movement.
After reading Kapoor’s work, I feel much more knowledgeable and grounded when it comes to India’s struggle for liberation but also when it comes to Gandhi – the man, not the legend.
Throughout the biography you can feel Kapoor’s affection for Gandhi. In the foreword he talks about how much his parents (and Indian society in general) were influenced by Gandhi’s teachings and his persona, so when Kapoor was introduced to Bapu early on, he naturally felt drawn towards him. Nonetheless, Kapoor managed to give a differentiated picture of Gandhi and his paradoxes. He didn't shy away from presenting the ways in which he neglected and oppressed his family (especially his wife and sons) and his abusive sexual practices (like enforcing to sleep naked with underage women, his niece included).
I’m very glad that Kapoor didn’t go the easy route of portraying Gandhi like a saint. Instead, I was introduced to the human that he was, flaws and all. After reading the biography, I don’t feel particularly affectionate towards him, since some of his more questionable actions (especially when it came to victim blaming and punishing women for ‘inviting sexual invitation’) appalled and disgusted me.
From my judgement, it was Kapoor’s aim to show the political and historic side of India’s struggle for independence, while using Gandhi’s life as a thread to move smoothly through the significant events. This structure worked really well for me, since the information density was great whilst also offering a more personal look at the consequences for the actual people who lived through it.
One of the reasons why this particular biography will stick with me for a long time is its design. I have never held a book in my hands that was more beautifully crafted. This truly is a masterpiece. The paper quality is out of this world and all of the prints (whether photos, illustrations, copies of letters, etc.) have the highest quality and are just a joy to look at. In my estimation, half of this book is taken up by visual elements while the other half is text. And I fucking love that ratio! ;)
Of course, this entails that there isn’t enough text to really dig deep into all of the events and ramifications, but, personally, I didn’t mind it, since I’d rather have all of these beautiful photos and timely documents that gave reality to the writing. Everything seems so real, raw and authentic because you have all of this visual input (and proof).
The only reason why this isn’t a five-star book for me (my actual rating is 4.5) is the fact that Kapoor often presumed specific cultural and political knowledge from his readers. I’m aware that this is linked with the fact that the marvelous pictures took up so much space of this book (and I wouldn’t want it any other way), nonetheless, I had to google quite a few things while reading in order to ensure my understanding, because Kapoor didn’t bother to explain them (e.g. the practice of untouchability).
All in all, Gandhi: An Illustrated Biography is everything I could’ve hoped for. It’s an easily accessible piece of nonfiction that made it possible for me (without having any prior knowledge on the topic) to fully immerse myself in another culture, another time period and new ways of thinking.
Prior to reading this illustrated biography, I knew next to nothing about India’s non-violent independence movement against British rule and I wasn’t familiar with Gandhi as a person or leader. The only thing I knew (and the reason why I picked up this biography) was the fact that Martin Luther King, Jr. was inspired by Gandhi’s take on non-violent civil disobedience and used some of his teachings during the African American civil rights movement.
After reading Kapoor’s work, I feel much more knowledgeable and grounded when it comes to India’s struggle for liberation but also when it comes to Gandhi – the man, not the legend.
Throughout the biography you can feel Kapoor’s affection for Gandhi. In the foreword he talks about how much his parents (and Indian society in general) were influenced by Gandhi’s teachings and his persona, so when Kapoor was introduced to Bapu early on, he naturally felt drawn towards him. Nonetheless, Kapoor managed to give a differentiated picture of Gandhi and his paradoxes. He didn't shy away from presenting the ways in which he neglected and oppressed his family (especially his wife and sons) and his abusive sexual practices (like enforcing to sleep naked with underage women, his niece included).
I’m very glad that Kapoor didn’t go the easy route of portraying Gandhi like a saint. Instead, I was introduced to the human that he was, flaws and all. After reading the biography, I don’t feel particularly affectionate towards him, since some of his more questionable actions (especially when it came to victim blaming and punishing women for ‘inviting sexual invitation’) appalled and disgusted me.
From my judgement, it was Kapoor’s aim to show the political and historic side of India’s struggle for independence, while using Gandhi’s life as a thread to move smoothly through the significant events. This structure worked really well for me, since the information density was great whilst also offering a more personal look at the consequences for the actual people who lived through it.
One of the reasons why this particular biography will stick with me for a long time is its design. I have never held a book in my hands that was more beautifully crafted. This truly is a masterpiece. The paper quality is out of this world and all of the prints (whether photos, illustrations, copies of letters, etc.) have the highest quality and are just a joy to look at. In my estimation, half of this book is taken up by visual elements while the other half is text. And I fucking love that ratio! ;)
Of course, this entails that there isn’t enough text to really dig deep into all of the events and ramifications, but, personally, I didn’t mind it, since I’d rather have all of these beautiful photos and timely documents that gave reality to the writing. Everything seems so real, raw and authentic because you have all of this visual input (and proof).
The only reason why this isn’t a five-star book for me (my actual rating is 4.5) is the fact that Kapoor often presumed specific cultural and political knowledge from his readers. I’m aware that this is linked with the fact that the marvelous pictures took up so much space of this book (and I wouldn’t want it any other way), nonetheless, I had to google quite a few things while reading in order to ensure my understanding, because Kapoor didn’t bother to explain them (e.g. the practice of untouchability).
All in all, Gandhi: An Illustrated Biography is everything I could’ve hoped for. It’s an easily accessible piece of nonfiction that made it possible for me (without having any prior knowledge on the topic) to fully immerse myself in another culture, another time period and new ways of thinking.
January 30, 2020
Gandhi: an Illustrated History provides a glimpse into Gandhi's life, told chronologically, from his early days up until the days of his assasination—all presented with astonishing illustrations. I haven't read any books on Gandhi or watched the famous 1982 Movie (yet), so I can't judge if this is a good book or not. Before I read this book I assumed he was just a famous semi-nude Indian preacher who wants to bring peace for everyone. Now I know a little more about him than I did before, including his "dark side".
It's a quick & simple read for everyone. For me, it's neither too long nor too short. The writing's not too pompous or extravagant too, which makes the whole story refreshing and truly enjoyable. You don't need to be an expert at Indian History to understand the book. The book's interesting bits make this a page-turner for all non-fiction fans out there. The book has a little section in which the author writes about something trivial (stories, events, people), but I find those to be entertaining.
In conclusion, Gandhi: an Illustrated History is a fantastic introduction to India's most famous figure, narrated linearly with great & simple storytelling. This is the first book that I truly loved in 2020 so far. It's a gem and I think you should add this to your autobiography shelf.
It's a quick & simple read for everyone. For me, it's neither too long nor too short. The writing's not too pompous or extravagant too, which makes the whole story refreshing and truly enjoyable. You don't need to be an expert at Indian History to understand the book. The book's interesting bits make this a page-turner for all non-fiction fans out there. The book has a little section in which the author writes about something trivial (stories, events, people), but I find those to be entertaining.
In conclusion, Gandhi: an Illustrated History is a fantastic introduction to India's most famous figure, narrated linearly with great & simple storytelling. This is the first book that I truly loved in 2020 so far. It's a gem and I think you should add this to your autobiography shelf.
October 17, 2023
I must confess: I am not a great fan of Mohandas Gandhi.
But having made the confession, let me tell you that my feelings towards him are somewhat ambivalent. I may not be an admirer; but I am in no way a virulent critic of the man as I find many are. And, the number of Gandhi’s detractors is not particularly insignificant. My present attitude to Gandhi is shaped by my knowledge and understanding of the man, which, I must admit, is not adequate.
Then, why take up the book in the first place?
Three reasons.
First, I am an admirer of the writing of M J Akbar. After Gandhi’s Hinduism: The Struggle Against Jinnah’s Islam, Shri Akbar’s next book is on Gandhi, too. Having pre-ordered it, I wanted to have a broad idea of Gandhi’s life and times before the book arrives. And, Pramod Kapoor has not disappointed.
Number two. There is one word in the title that drew me in: Illustrated. Pictorial or illustrated biographies, if text and photographs gel seamlessly, make for fascinating reading. And, Pramod Kapoor has done an excellent job.
And number three. I have not thought of it before; I discovered it as I kept turning the pages. In Acknowledgments, Shri Kapoor has thanked S Prasannarajan (presently the editor of the Open magazine) for suggesting a title of the book: My Experiment with Gandhi. Though Shri Kapoor has used it, not as the title of the book, but that of the introductory chapter, the expression has stayed with me: My Experiment with Gandhi. Given my state of ambivalence, I need to do my own experiment about the man who continues to evoke such contradictory emotions even seventy-five years after he has gone.
Between – and beyond – the “mahatma” and the hard-nosed politician who – and what – is the real Gandhi? There is no easy answer.
Gandhi was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize five times – being shortlisted thrice. In 1937, one of those shortlist years, Professor Jacob Worm-Mueller, a member of the Nobel Committee, remarked: “He is a freedom fighter and a dictator … he is frequently a Christ but then, suddenly, an ordinary politician.” Many people will probably agree with the assessment. This paradox propels me to experiment with Gandhi.
Adorned with over two hundred photographs – many of which I have not seen before – three things stand out for me in the book.
The text and photographs about Gandhi and Tagore. Excellent.
The women in Gandhi’s life – Madeleine Slade (Mirabehn), Tagore’s niece, Sarala Devi Choudhurani, who, in Gandhi’s own words, “nearly wrecked my marriage”, Sarojini Naidu, Manu Gandhi, Abha Gandhi, Dr Sushila Nayyar. Small life sketches make for interesting reading.
And Gandhi’s eldest son, Harilal’s letter to his father, written on 31 March 1915. Shri Kapoor has included this longish letter as an insert in the book. The estranged son died unloved five months after his famous father’s assassination. Here, the 27-year-old Harilal writes in utter anguish and dejection. He accuses his father for the state he was in. You may be forgiven for wondering if a man can be so indifferent in raising his own children, how good a “father” he can be of the nation.
A question that will not offer an easy answer. And the Gandhi enigma lingers.
An excellently produced book, its value has increased manifold by the superb bibliography Shri Kapoor provides at the end.
And I’ll continue to read about Gandhi. If the limited time left for me in the Planet Earth permits, I’ll read a Rajmohan Gandhi, a Robert Payne, a Louis Fischer (not, probably, a Ramachandra Guha), a Judith M Brown, a Ved Mehta or an Eknath Easwaran and, of course, Gandhi’s Autobiography and his Hind Sawraj.
Not to discover Gandhi, but to discover myself.
The journey of my experiment with Gandhi may – may – just have begun.
Bon voyage, did I hear you say!
But having made the confession, let me tell you that my feelings towards him are somewhat ambivalent. I may not be an admirer; but I am in no way a virulent critic of the man as I find many are. And, the number of Gandhi’s detractors is not particularly insignificant. My present attitude to Gandhi is shaped by my knowledge and understanding of the man, which, I must admit, is not adequate.
Then, why take up the book in the first place?
Three reasons.
First, I am an admirer of the writing of M J Akbar. After Gandhi’s Hinduism: The Struggle Against Jinnah’s Islam, Shri Akbar’s next book is on Gandhi, too. Having pre-ordered it, I wanted to have a broad idea of Gandhi’s life and times before the book arrives. And, Pramod Kapoor has not disappointed.
Number two. There is one word in the title that drew me in: Illustrated. Pictorial or illustrated biographies, if text and photographs gel seamlessly, make for fascinating reading. And, Pramod Kapoor has done an excellent job.
And number three. I have not thought of it before; I discovered it as I kept turning the pages. In Acknowledgments, Shri Kapoor has thanked S Prasannarajan (presently the editor of the Open magazine) for suggesting a title of the book: My Experiment with Gandhi. Though Shri Kapoor has used it, not as the title of the book, but that of the introductory chapter, the expression has stayed with me: My Experiment with Gandhi. Given my state of ambivalence, I need to do my own experiment about the man who continues to evoke such contradictory emotions even seventy-five years after he has gone.
Between – and beyond – the “mahatma” and the hard-nosed politician who – and what – is the real Gandhi? There is no easy answer.
Gandhi was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize five times – being shortlisted thrice. In 1937, one of those shortlist years, Professor Jacob Worm-Mueller, a member of the Nobel Committee, remarked: “He is a freedom fighter and a dictator … he is frequently a Christ but then, suddenly, an ordinary politician.” Many people will probably agree with the assessment. This paradox propels me to experiment with Gandhi.
Adorned with over two hundred photographs – many of which I have not seen before – three things stand out for me in the book.
The text and photographs about Gandhi and Tagore. Excellent.
The women in Gandhi’s life – Madeleine Slade (Mirabehn), Tagore’s niece, Sarala Devi Choudhurani, who, in Gandhi’s own words, “nearly wrecked my marriage”, Sarojini Naidu, Manu Gandhi, Abha Gandhi, Dr Sushila Nayyar. Small life sketches make for interesting reading.
And Gandhi’s eldest son, Harilal’s letter to his father, written on 31 March 1915. Shri Kapoor has included this longish letter as an insert in the book. The estranged son died unloved five months after his famous father’s assassination. Here, the 27-year-old Harilal writes in utter anguish and dejection. He accuses his father for the state he was in. You may be forgiven for wondering if a man can be so indifferent in raising his own children, how good a “father” he can be of the nation.
A question that will not offer an easy answer. And the Gandhi enigma lingers.
An excellently produced book, its value has increased manifold by the superb bibliography Shri Kapoor provides at the end.
And I’ll continue to read about Gandhi. If the limited time left for me in the Planet Earth permits, I’ll read a Rajmohan Gandhi, a Robert Payne, a Louis Fischer (not, probably, a Ramachandra Guha), a Judith M Brown, a Ved Mehta or an Eknath Easwaran and, of course, Gandhi’s Autobiography and his Hind Sawraj.
Not to discover Gandhi, but to discover myself.
The journey of my experiment with Gandhi may – may – just have begun.
Bon voyage, did I hear you say!
October 1, 2020
Purchase Gandhi: An Illustrated Biography here for just $15!
Pramod Kapoor has written an incredible biography of Gandhi that reveals so much new information, you will be amazed. Would make a great gift, although you might find yourself wanting to read this illustrated biography. Buy 2 copies!
Elisa - The Book Grocer
Pramod Kapoor has written an incredible biography of Gandhi that reveals so much new information, you will be amazed. Would make a great gift, although you might find yourself wanting to read this illustrated biography. Buy 2 copies!
Elisa - The Book Grocer
October 12, 2022
For a first timer like me, this book was a pleasure reading. Though it appears somewhat bulky, the numerous photographs, documents and letters, synced with relevant and well articulated narratives, made it a light read. I plan to read 'The Life Of Mahatma Gandhi' by Louis Fischer next.
In this book, the author gives the readers a bird's eye view of who Gandhi was, his personal life, his personality and his struggles for the Independence of India.
In this book, the author gives the readers a bird's eye view of who Gandhi was, his personal life, his personality and his struggles for the Independence of India.
January 17, 2021
A fantastic way to write about a great personality, a Mahatma. The way Pramod Kapoor wrote this book is worth reading, every page will tell you something which you have never known about Gandhi. May it be the Dandi March, or his stay in South Africa, how Gandhi presented the contrasting view from Sarvar on the same platform in London. Every page is worth reading. Highly recommended.
July 16, 2022
What’s Good-
This one gives new perspective about Mahatma’s struggle which we didn’t get from earlier biographies on Bapu.
The book highlights relationship of Bapu with his family members, then Indian leaders and international leaders.
This one is highly recommend by me to get to know struggle of the Great man in a more illustrative way with lots of rare photos and documents!
This one gives new perspective about Mahatma’s struggle which we didn’t get from earlier biographies on Bapu.
The book highlights relationship of Bapu with his family members, then Indian leaders and international leaders.
This one is highly recommend by me to get to know struggle of the Great man in a more illustrative way with lots of rare photos and documents!
February 5, 2025
Ich habe bisher sehr wenig über den bekannten Friedenskämpfer Mahatma Gandhi gewusst. Dieses Buch erweiterte mein Wissen über ihn, was ziemlich kontroverse Hintergründe offenlegte. Das Buch an sich ist sehr interessant und informativ und enthält zahlreiche Fotos und Dokumente; aber ich muss für mich mehr über den Mann lesen, um mir ein vollständiges Bild zusammenzupuzzeln.
August 1, 2019
Excellent overview of this complex yet simple man who loved his country and yet somewhat neglected his children, especially his oldest son. The photographs throughout the text really brought dimension to his story.
December 29, 2022
One of the best works on Gandhi. The book contains some rare pictures and letters of him. Pramod kumar is master of this unique illustrated biography. Gandhi is one of the great man of last century who worked tirelessly for the independence and brotherhood in the country.
December 30, 2017
A great design with nice photographs, letters and sidestories. Chronological story about "bapu" as a person and initiator of Indian independence.
October 11, 2019
Excellent coffee table book with great production values , recomended gift to guests good production value and good scholarship
January 23, 2022
Very interesting biography of the Mahatma. The pictures really made it vibrant, especially since it comes after so many of his biographies. Gives new insights and some never before seen images.
March 4, 2022
An amazing biography, with loads of supporting documents, sketches, etc. to help us truly get to know this incredible man. LOVE IT!!!
April 14, 2022
An awesome book about an tremendous person.
October 10, 2022
Would like to read more about Harilal and his relationship with Mr. M K Gandhi..
July 10, 2023
Great read. Pictures present great understanding and dynamics of situations described. Well thought book. Shows efforts put forth by author.
January 27, 2024
Not a comprehensive biography. Good for beginners to know more about the Mahatma and his life in photographs.
March 28, 2020
Book full of photos of and related to MK Gandhi. This biography stands out from others in this aspect. Plus there are some paragraphs or incidents which you don’t find in others. The style of narration is also good. Definitely recommendable, especially for beginners.
September 27, 2017
A wonderful easy to read book that gives us insight into Gandi"s life and the times he lived in through pictures, letters and artwork. The visual imagery fuels our imaginations to bring us closer to the man we so admire.
Want to read
October 11, 2017 I would have loved to review this book however it was never sent to me. I wanted to read it but I never received it.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews