Untouchability is a blot on Hinduism. It is a canker eating into its vitals.
This quote refers to the practice of untouchability, a social stigma attached to certain castes in Hinduism that has been prevalent for centuries. It is seen as a blemish on the religion, which is otherwise known for its principles of tolerance and non-violence. The term “blot” signifies something undesirable or disgraceful, while “canker eating into its vitals” metaphorically suggests a disease that slowly degrades or destroys from within.
Gandhi’s perspective is that untouchability isn’t just an external problem but one that impairs the very essence of Hinduism. He implies that it contradicts the core values and principles of this ancient religion, such as equality and respect for all life forms.
In today’s world context, this quote can be applied to any form of discrimination or prejudice based on caste, race, gender, religion etc., which are still prevalent in many societies across the globe. Just like untouchability was a blot on Hinduism according to Gandhi; racism could be seen as a blot on humanity itself. Any form of discrimination eats away at society’s vitals by creating divisions among people and promoting hatred and violence.
On a personal development front too, this idea holds relevance. Prejudices or biases against certain groups can hinder our growth as individuals by limiting our worldview and understanding. They create barriers between us and others based purely upon superficial differences rather than individual merit or character traits.
Therefore it becomes imperative for us all – individually and collectively – to strive towards eliminating these ‘blots’ from our lives in order to promote harmony within ourselves and society at large.
