Being Gandhi tells the story of a schoolboy whose world is turned upside down when his teacher assigns the class a project to “Be Gandhi” for a day. The boy, initially dismissive and uncertain about what that even means, finds himself confronting challenges both in school and in society that force him to think about non-violence, empathy, and moral courage. Set against the backdrop of everyday life in contemporary India, the narrative cleverly juxtaposes Gandhi’s historical relevance with modern-day issues like bullying, communal tension, and personal integrity.
Character Analysis:
The unnamed protagonist is an every-child figure — curious, flawed, and authentic. His journey from reluctant participant to someone who internalises Gandhi’s values is gradual and believable. His classmates serve as mirrors and foils, highlighting his internal conflicts. Through their interactions, Paro Anand captures the struggles young people face in balancing ideals with peer pressure and societal norms. Gandhi himself is never a physical presence in the story, yet his philosophy becomes an invisible yet compelling character guiding the plot.
What Makes It a Great Read:
The book is engaging because it takes Gandhi out of history textbooks and places him in the messy, noisy corridors of school life and everyday society. Paro Anand writes with humour, warmth, and an unflinching honesty that appeals to young readers without being preachy. The situations the protagonist encounters are relatable — making it easy for readers to ask themselves, “What would I do?” The short, crisp chapters keep the pace lively, making it a perfect read for reluctant readers too.
Literary Success:
Paro Anand’s strength lies in her ability to distill heavy concepts like truth, non-violence, and moral responsibility into simple, impactful storytelling. Her language is accessible yet layered, allowing both children and adults to find meaning. By framing Gandhi’s philosophy within the microcosm of a child’s daily life, she bridges the gap between past and present, showing that Bapu’s values are not relics of history but living tools for modern living.