He Let Gandhi into His Life - Hardcover

‘A touching, human story about standing up for what is right.'

It is 1920, and Ramalingam - fondly known to his family as Masterji - makes an announcement that will change his life, and the life of his family. He has quit his job as a respected Professor, and he will be leaving the family home. After coming into contact with Gandhi and hearing his speeches, he launched himself into the freedom struggle. He is a young man endowed with a will of iron and a determined reformer which includes populous belief, superstitions, love and most of all the family ties.

The Indian independence movement encompasses a wide range of areas like organizations, philosophies. It is going through a process of constant ideological evolution. No one can know where this path will lead them.

This biography of a freedom fighter depicts the social, cultural, political and ambience of early 20th century in the history of British India.
The true story of W. V. V. B. Ramalingam, one of Gandhi's most devoted followers; He Let Gandhi into His Life is a fascinating and intelligently written book. It spans the stories of five generations of Ramalingam's family, from his life as an idealistic reformer to the wise, unmovable teacher that he came to be known as in his later years of life

My eyes were opened during the storm of freedom. When I look back in time I often think what an unparalleled experience it was to be grown up in the melting pot of emotions surrounding India's Freedom Movement.

As a child I was often bewildered at what I regarded to be two conflicting ideas, on one hand we were fighting the Sahibs, however on numerous occasions some of the Sahib friends were regular visitors to our home and had conversation with my grandfather. As I grew up, my grandfather patiently explained to me that the ongoing disagreement was not with the Sahibs themselves but with the ruling government.

One of my most memorable childhood memories was seeing Gandhiji in person. He was one of the most charismatic persons I have ever met. I remember feeling moved and awe stuck with his presence amidst us.

Delving into the faded pages of history has taken me no less than fifteen years, gathering information form every source thinkable. My journey enabled me to experience the ambience of those times and go through all the emotions associated with them.

My only regret is that Ramalingam's personal account of the freedom struggle had never been recorded by us, but on the other hand we are fortunate to have the account in his wife Pillamma's voice and words.