Speech at Benares Hindu University
Delivered on February 4, 1916, at the opening of Benares Hindu University, challenging Indian elites and princes to abandon ostentatious wealth and align with the impoverished masses for true national liberation.
Full Transcript
It is a matter of deep humiliation and shame for us that I am compelled this evening under the shadow of this great college, in this sacred city, to address my countrymen in a language that is foreign to me.
I compare with the richly jewel-decked princes the poor farmer that comes to us. There is no salvation for India unless you strip yourselves of this jewelry and hold it in trust for your countrymen in India. I am sure it is not the desire of the King-Emperor or Lord Hardinge that in order to show the loyalty to the King-Emperor at these ceremonies, people should stretch out their legs to the extent that they do.
No amount of speeches will ever make us fit for self-government. It is only our conduct that will fit us for it. Our salvation can only come through the farmer. Neither the lawyers, nor the doctors, nor the rich landlords are going to secure it.
Defining Key Excerpts
"There is no salvation for India unless you strip yourselves of this jewelry and hold it in trust for your countrymen in India."
"Our salvation can only come through the farmer. Neither the lawyers, nor the doctors, nor the rich landlords are going to secure it."
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