The March to Dandi
In 1930, Mahatma Gandhi declared that true freedom (Purna Swaraj) in India could not be achieved without collective action against unjust laws imposed by the British government. The Salt Act, which prohibited Indians from making or selling salt and imposed a tax on salt—a vital household commodity—became a focal point for resistance. Gandhi, along with a group of followers, initiated a march from the Sabarmati Ashram to the coastal town of Dandi, spanning over 240 miles.
The march commenced on March 12, 1930, and culminated on April 6, where Gandhi and his companions produced salt by evaporation of seawater, directly violating the oppressive British law. This act of defiance sparked nationwide protests, drawing widespread participation from Indians of all backgrounds, including peasants, tribals, and women. It symbolized a collective struggle against colonial rule, illustrating how a simple issue like salt could rally individuals across class and social boundaries.
Women played an indispensable role in this movement, challenging traditional gender roles and contributing to the national movement while advocating for their rights. The Salt March did not only symbolize resistance but also set the stage for subsequent civil disobedience campaigns across India, leading to a significant shift in the struggle for independence against British colonialism.