Day 1 – Q.5. “My life is my message.” – Mahatma Gandhi. In the context of ethical leadership, what lessons can be drawn from the life of Gandhi in aligning personal conduct with public duty?

Q.5. “My life is my message.” – Mahatma Gandhi. In the context of ethical leadership, what lessons can be drawn from the life of Gandhi in aligning personal conduct with public duty? (150 words, 10 marks)

Introduction

Mahatma Gandhi’s statement reflects the core of ethical leadership—where personal conduct perfectly aligns with public duty. Gandhi’s life is a timeless example of how integrity, non-violence, and self-sacrifice can inspire a nation.

Body

Lessons from Gandhi’s Life on Ethical Leadership

1. Integrity and Consistency : Personal truth guided public life.
   Example: Gandhi wore Khadi to promote self-reliance.
2. Non-violence and Compassion : Peaceful resistance became a moral tool.
   Example: Salt March showed ethical protest despite repression.
3. Self-Discipline and Sacrifice : Personal restraint modeled ethical leadership.
   Example: Gandhi’s fasts awakened public conscience.
4. Humility and Servant Leadership : Power was exercised through service.
   Example: Gandhi lived simply and shared duties with followers.
5. Courage to Uphold Truth : Moral stance remained firm under pressure.
   Example: Gandhi endured jail but never abandoned non-violence.
6. Inclusiveness and Equality : He fought discrimination with action.
   Example: Gandhi embraced Dalits as “Harijans.”
7. Leading by Example : Personal actions inspired mass movements.
   Example: Spinning yarn encouraged economic resistance.
8. Accountability and Transparency : He welcomed dissent and debate.
   Example: Open discussions in INC built collective ethics.

Conclusion

Gandhi’s life teaches that ethical leadership demands that personal conduct fully embody public service. As he famously said, “Be the change that you wish to see in the world.” Gandhiji remains a beacon for leaders striving to align ethics with governance.