A theory must be tempered with reality.

That the caste system must be abolished if the Hindu society is to be reconstructed on the basis of equality, goes without saying. Untouchability has its roots in the caste system. They cannot expect the Brahmins to rise in revolt against the caste system. Also we cannot rely upon the non-Brahmins and ask them to fight our battle.

We must think and act like a nation of a billion people and not like that of a million people. Dream, dream, dream!

I came across few whites as a boy at Qunu. The local magistrate, of course, was white, as was the nearest shopkeeper. Occasionally, white travelers or policemen passed through our area. These whites appeared as grand as gods to me, and I was aware that they were to be treated with a mixture of fear and respect.

Anybody can become angry - that is easy, but to be angry with the right person and to the right degree and at the right time and for the right purpose, and in the right way - that is not within everybody's power and is not easy.

What is true of the individual will be tomorrow true of the whole nation of individuals will but refuse to lose heart and hope.

We do not covet anything from any nation except their respect.  

If you are going to achieve excellence in big things, you develop the habit in little matters. Excellence is not an exception, it is a prevailing attitude.

There is far more opportunity than there is ability.

Bashfulness is an ornament to youth, but a reproach to old age.

My religion is based on truth and non-violence. Truth is my God. Non-violence is the meaning of realising Him.

This is my simple religion. There is no need for temples; no need for complicated philosophy. Our own brain, our own heart is our temple; the philosophy is kindness.