A shared journey on the path of truth and self-discovery, and a unique friendship transcending the ordinary, bridging cultures and times.

Prabhudas Gandhi had close relationships with various people throughout his life, who were heavily influenced by his work and Gandhi's ideals. 

Undoubtedly, Mahatma Gandhi was the most important and influential figure in Prabhudas's life. Prabhudas grew up under Gandhi's care and lived in his ashrams in South Africa and India. He accompanied Gandhi on important campaigns like the Champaran Satyagraha and was educated and taught by him. Gandhi described Prabhudas as gentle-hearted and deeply consecrated. It was even said that Prabhudas best understood Gandhi's ideals and implemented them in his own life.

Kanu Gandhi, Mahatma Gandhi's "court photographer," was another close companion of Prabhudas. The two lived together in the "School of the Nation" (Rashtriyashala) founded by Gandhi and shared a deep friendship. Kanu, who took over 1,300 personal photos of Gandhi, belonged to the Mahatma's inner circle, just like Prabhudas.

The German Gandhi expert Peter Rühe described in his writings a very intimate and friendly relationship with Prabhudas Gandhi, which he built despite the large age difference of 55 years. Rühe saw Prabhudas as a mentor and a living encyclopedia for Gandhi's ideas and life.

Prabhudas Gandhi was also associated with other leading figures of the Indian independence movement. During his time in prison as part of the Quit India movement, he came into contact with Jawaharlal Nehru and Govind Vallabh Pant. He also worked with other important leaders such as Rajendra Prasad and J.C. Kripalani. He also shared a close relationship with his wife Ambadevi; their marriage was arranged by Mahatma Gandhi.

The following is a summary of the relationship between Gandhi’s grandnephew, Prabhudas Gandhi, and Prabhudas' friend and student, Peter Rühe from Germany. It is based on Peter Rühe’s entries (in German language) in his diary about Prabhudas Gandhi, spanning from 1985 to 1995. It is hoped that the story can be completed soon by adding the entries about Peter in Prabhudas Gandhi’s diaries (in Gujarati language).

This summary is a testament to the enduring power of human connection, a thread of love and learning that weaves through the tapestry of life. It is a bond that speaks not merely of a teacher and his student, but of a shared journey on the path of truth and self-discovery. The reader can see the deep affection and mutual respect that blossomed between them.

The summary was created using AI with the help of Google’s Gemini.

I met Prabhudasbhai first in 1985 on my second trip to India. I was looking for authentic photographs of Gandhi for an exhibition on Gandhi's life and work, friends and I were preparing in Germany. I was deeply impressed by him, who not only looked like Gandhi but also embodied his values. Moreover, he was an invaluable resource, someone who was "an encyclopedia on Gandhi". However, my motivation to spend more time with him was a sheer personal one and not academic. 

When we met, I had already begun my own spiritual quest, my search for truth. I understood that Gandhi's ideology is not about blindly copying his actions but rather about finding personal inspiration to "do my own experiments with truth" and improve myself. I adopted aspects of Gandhi's philosophy in my own life, such as practicing nonviolence, respecting all people, and experimenting with diet and nature cure. I felt privileged to travel with Prabhudasbhai, who helped me understand Gandhi’s personality and the pre-independence period better than anyone else. 

Prabhudasbhai was a - wonderfully - sensitive person, who often was disappointed about certain things that happened around him, which overwhelmed him at times. However, his faith, his inner strength and an overall positive attitude helped him always to overcome darker periods. 

However, those negative influences around him dissolved immediately with him when we went on a tour together or shared positive thoughts. Practically, my intense striving to learn more about Gandhi and the context he lived in took him out of his everyday worries.

We shared numerous memorable moments, and my time with Prabhudasbhai became the best part of my life.

In 1985, Peter Rühe's journey led him to an encounter with Prabhudas Gandhi, Gandhi’s grandnephew and lookalike. The meeting gifted him with two significant books by Prabhudas Gandhi: Jivannu Parodh (Hindi - Dawn of Life / My Childhood with Mahatma Gandhi) and Ootabapa no Vadlo (Gujarati - Ootabapa's Banyan Tree / The History of the Gandhi Family). This initial spark ignited a deeper quest within him. This gift was not merely paper and ink, but an invitation into a deeper understanding of the principles of Mahatma Gandhi. 

The following year, 1986, marked a truly transformative period: four weeks spent in the presence of Prabhudasbhai. Peter speaks of this time as profoundly enriching, leading him to the realisation that "only continuity and precision in one's actions will get you further." Peter marvelled at Prabhudas’s clarity of thought and speech, also acknowledging Prabhudas's diligent efforts in maintaining this vitality through disciplined sleep, exercise, prayer, and writing. This is a profound observation, for it highlights the very essence of self-mastery that Gandhi always advocated. The benefit he derived from Prabhudas's presence was "indescribable," and he hoped it would manifest in his future conduct. The warmth and cordiality extended by Prabhudas's family provided Peter with a profound sense of security. 

A singular privilege for Peter was accompanying Prabhudasbhai to the Sevagram Ashram for its 50th anniversary. Peter describes it as "more than a privilege: it is an indescribable blessing," offering him the rare opportunity to be alone and close to Prabhudas for two weeks, to learn from him, and not merely the act of spinning. The act of spinning, though simple, embodies self-sufficiency and dedication, and to learn beyond it implies a deeper assimilation of principles. The parting, Peter reflects, was difficult, yet Prabhudas remained warm and without sadness, understanding that "the moment and the behaviour at the moment is what counts." This reflects detachment from outcomes, a focus on the present, which brings true peace.

In March 1987, their paths crossed again. A heartfelt reunion took place at Prabhudas's home with him and his grandson's family. Peter expressed a desire to remain longer in Rajkot to converse more with these "jewels," Prabhudas and Abha, the widow of Gandhi’s nephew Kanu Gandhi, in whose arms Gandhi died. He continued reading My Childhood with Gandhi, often meeting Prabhudas at the Ramakrishna Temple for bhajans and further conversations. A shared project began to take shape, with Prabhudas himself expressing interest in collaborating on the translation of My Childhood with Gandhi. Peter, with newfound courage, even inquired about recording Prabhudas's life story, to which Prabhudas happily agreed, despite concerns about his English. They began these recordings, planning for Prabhudas to describe his life's journey. Their time together included shared meditations, particularly on Ramakrishna's birthday. Peter even repaired Prabhudas's broken glasses and walked hand in hand with him to the temple. Prabhudas recounted a visit from the American scholar Stephen Hay, who had meticulously studied Gandhi’s youth. 

Experiencing Christmas in Ahmedabad and New Year's Eve at the Kasturba Ashram with Prabhudas, accompanied by Gujarati folksongs and dances, was a special and deeply satisfying experience for Peter, who was content to usher in the new year alongside his dear Prabhu. The new year began with significant momentum. Peter found himself engaged in interviews alongside Prabhudasbhai and Abhabehn, signifying a recognition of Prabhudas's wisdom and a shared platform for disseminating ideas. Each morning, Peter rose at 6:30 for Yoga exercises with Prabhudasbhai, followed by group discussions and individual conversations. This consistent practice together speaks volumes about their shared commitment to discipline and inner harmony.

Their excursions included a visit to Kirti Mandir, where Peter was deeply impressed by Prabhudas, describing him as "a remnant from a sunken culture." This suggests Peter's profound respect for Prabhudas as a living embodiment of values and traditions that are slowly fading.

Prabhudas Gandhi:  Audio - Video - Images - Writings

April 1988 saw them embarking on their journey. They visited Prabhudas's family, and together, in their customary way, attended the temple. Peter observed Prabhudas's profound spiritual and practical continuity, evident in his Asanas, which were a remarkable display of his connection between the spiritual and physical. Peter recognized Prabhudas as embodying Gandhi to a large extent, particularly in his interactions with people, spinning, and education. Their travels continued, a serene journey by train where Prabhudas, despite constantly attending to his luggage, found a rare sense of freedom. Peter noted Prabhudas's efforts to maintain his health and believed he could reach 100 years of age. In Sevagram, Peter purchased a new spinning wheel for Prabhudas, receiving Prabhudas's old book-format spinning wheel as a gift. Later, Peter began to learn spinning himself, finding it a work of patience. He assisted Prabhudas with his correspondence and continued working on Prabhudas's articles, a true act of partnership in sharing wisdom with the world.

A journey to Delhi saw them engaged in meaningful conversations, Peter finding joy in their companionship. They attended a prayer meeting at Birla House, sitting directly behind Rajiv and Sonia Gandhi. Peter, despite being unnoticed himself, found great comfort in his role as Prabhudas's companion.

Their time together was filled with work on Prabhudas’s articles, watching films, and attending various meetings, solidifying their bond through shared purpose and quiet camaraderie. The journey to Delhi by train was not a burden for Peter, but a joy, filled with good conversations and a peaceful atmosphere. He found Prabhu "always becoming younger," a testament to his vibrant spirit. Even in the face of mundane tasks like packing, Peter observed Prabhudas's cheerful serenity. 

The path of life, like any journey, has its turns and challenges, and so it was with Prabhudas and Peter. In late 1988, Peter, being in Bombay, received a letter from a common friend indicating that Prabhudas was not well, a cause for concern. Peter rushed to Rashtriyashala in Rajkot and was gladdened to find Prabhudasbhai in good spirits and - again - all well. Their conversations continued, with Peter helping Prabhudas with his letter correspondence. Peter diligently listened to Prabhudas’s narrations, absorbing his wisdom in the quiet hours of the evening.  They attended a Christmas Eve celebration at the Ramkrishna Temple, a shared moment of spiritual contemplation. Peter also discussed his book with Prabhudas and accompanied him on a trip to Pardi, near Rajkot. 

A deeply moving moment occurred when Prabhudas confided in Peter his sadness at being unable to complete his work due to the lack of a secretary. This touched Peter deeply, leaving him torn between his life in Berlin and his commitment to Rajkot, even prompting him to consider dedicating three years to assist Prabhudas. This willingness to sacrifice personal comfort for the greater good reflects the lessons Prabhudas strives to impart. Peter also assisted Prabhudasbhai by taking him to the Amber charkha workshop. 

In 1989, their collaboration continued. Peter worked with Abha and visited Purushottambhai to discuss the Kasturba Ashram. He rendered small acts of service that speaks of a caring heart. Peter rejoiced when Prabhudas and his daughter, Indira, undertook a solidarity fast, though it saddened him that they could not complete it due to discomfort. They made travel plans, visited shops, and continued their work on the book, a testament to their shared intellectual and spiritual pursuits. 

A delightful moment arose when Peter rode a camel with Prabhudas in the Barda Hills near Porbandar, into a neighboring settlement, a shared adventure. They discussed new projects and Peter also expressed joy at the good relationship between Prabhudas and Amba. 

The year 1991 brought moments of both joy and concern. Peter and Prabhudas continued their work on the family tree book, despite the challenges of noise and Peter’s headaches. They travelled together to Sevagram Ashram. Prabhudas spoke at the prayer meeting in Sevagram Ashram, sharing his wisdom with others. They visited various places, including the Jamnalal Bajaj Memorial and the Lakshminarayan Temple, enriching their bond through shared experiences. Peter observed Prabhudas's enjoyment of the train journey and their comfortable stay in Agra, visiting the Taj Mahal and the Red Fort. Peter even walked alongside the bullock cart to Prabhudas's ashram due to the cold, another small act of solidarity. 

A moment of disappointment arose when Peter felt that some people at an institution were merely putting on a show for Prabhudas. However, their good conversations continued, and they visited the Harijan Colony and the Gandhi Book House, making appointments and connecting with others. Peter found it difficult to part from Prabhudas, who also seemed reluctant to say goodbye, even postponing his departure. 

A significant event was Prabhudas’s first hospital stay due to extreme dehydration during their visit to Ahmedabad. Peter noted the concern of many relatives and ashram workers and felt that Prabhudas received the correct treatment. Even during this challenging time, Prabhudas's resilience was evident, as he was discharged and later gave a remarkable television recording, though he felt worse afterward. Peter was distressed by the theft of money and shared his concern with Prabhudas. Despite his weakness, Prabhudas still participated in an address at the Gandhi Ashram and watched a Gandhi program on TV with Peter. Their discussions about the "good old days" brought comfort. Peter noted Prabhudas’s confusion and decided to take him to Rajkot, an act of true care and responsibility. Even when Prabhudas was weak, their deep bond was evident in Peter's observations. 

A deeply personal moment occurred when Peter shared his marriage plans with Prabhudas, who, with characteristic wisdom, remained uncertain about a judgment.  This shows the depth of their trust and the role Prabhudas played in Peter’s life as a confidant and guide.

Peter Rühe talks with Yogesh Goda about Prabhudas Gandhi, 28 August 2024 - Transcript

The bond between Peter and Prabhudas, though encountering the natural ebb and flow of life, remained steadfast through the years. In 1992, Peter continued to dedicate himself to Prabhudasbhai and assisted him. Their conversations continued at home and in other places. Peter continued recording conversations with Prabhudas on cassettes, preserving his wisdom for posterity. They reviewed translations together, and Peter noted Prabhudas’s joy when the translations were good. 

Prabhudas shared his father’s diaries with Peter. Peter’s routine included yoga after talks with Prabhudasbhai, indicating the integration of their shared life. Peter also took on the practical responsibility of booking their travel tours. They journeyed to Kaivalyadham, where they conversed with Swamiji and performed exercises together, a testament to their shared spiritual pursuits. 

Travel with Prabhudas, though sometimes physically demanding, remained a source of joy for Peter. He recounts carrying Prabhudas's luggage at the train station but also enjoying the comfortable first-class compartment and their quiet conversations. Upon arriving in Wardha, they quickly found lodging and were well cared for, allowing for rest and continued discussions with Nirmala Gandhi and Prabhudas, including securing their train tickets. 

Prabhudas’s energy and focus were remarkable, as noted by Peter during a prayer meeting at Sevagram Ashram where Prabhudas gave an excellent lecture. They shared deep conversations late into the night at the Brahma Vidya Mandir, highlighting the depth of their intellectual and spiritual connection. Peter and Prabhudas also walked around the grounds of the Brahma Vidya Mandir, engaging in conversations here and there. Even when Peter felt tired during the morning prayer, he was comforted to know that Prabhudas, too, needed more rest. 

A profound and intensely personal entry from 1992 reveals the depth of Peter’s devotion to Prabhudas. Faced with a serious health diagnosis, Peter resolved that if extensive treatment were necessary, he would forgo it and instead travel to India to be with Prabhudas in his final moments. This testament of unwavering love and trust speaks volumes about the spiritual anchor Prabhudas had become for Peter.

In 1993, Peter continued to communicate with Prabhudasbhai through letters. 

In 1994, Peter noted physical changes in Rashtriyashala, but Prabhudas, despite back problems, remained his "old boy." Peter was happy to see Prabhudas again after a bicycle ride to Pardi, even though he was exhausted. 

A joyful occasion arrived in November 1994, when Peter was persuaded by Manubhai Mehta, the mayor of Savarkundla, to marry on November 13th, a proposal welcomed by Prabhudas's presence. Peter was deeply touched by the beauty of the wedding and received blessings from Prabhudas and other esteemed individuals. Their conversations continued after the wedding, further solidifying their bond and enriching both their lives. Peter continued to learn invaluable lessons from his guru, who expressed a desire to undertake another major tour with Peter in 1994, but it didn’t happen.

The year 1995 marked the culmination of Peter Rühe's journey with Prabhudas Gandhi, a journey deeply rooted in shared learning and profound affection. In January, Peter visited Prabhudasbhai and Ambadevi in Panchvati, where Prabhudas uttered words that deeply moved Peter: "It was my good fortune in the last years to have a friend like you." This simple yet powerful statement encapsulates the mutual respect and affection that had blossomed between them. It is a testament to the belief that true friendship knows no bounds of age or status.

In Rajkot, Peter and Babubhai Thakker from Bombay spoke at length with Prabhudas, who received assurance that all his materials would be published. This was a significant development, ensuring that Prabhudas's wisdom and experiences would be preserved for future generations, a shared triumph for both teacher and student. Peter and Prabhudas continued to share pleasant conversations and appropriately bid each other farewell, perhaps unaware that these would be their last in this earthly realm. 

Then, in May, the news arrived that Prabhudas had passed away. Peter recounts receiving the fax about Prabhudas’s death, feeling sadness yet a profound sense of peace, knowing that Prabhudas had departed in tranquillity. This is the essence of true understanding and acceptance of life’s natural course. Peter telephoned Yogesh, Prabhudas' grandson, who also remained composed, demonstrating the resilience and inner strength cultivated through their shared philosophies. Peter and his wife Susanne held a memorial, listening to the Rashtriyashala prayer and a cassette of Prabhudas speaking about his wedding, keeping his memory alive through shared rituals and cherished recordings. The grief was profound, but the memory of a profound and enriching relationship remained. Despite the sense of peace, Peter confessed to a deep sorrow within him for Prabhudas. 

Through Peter Rühe’s diary entries, we witness a relationship that transcended the ordinary. It was a bond built on respect, shared values, and a mutual pursuit of truth and inner peace. It chronicles a beautiful journey of mentorship, friendship, and shared purpose. 

Prabhudas Gandhi truly embodied the spirit of Gandhi’s teachings and lived a life devoted to truth and service. Peter, in his unwavering dedication and heartfelt observations, became a worthy torchbearer of those ideals. Peter was a sincere and devoted student, carrying forward the spirit of selflessness and peace. 

The legacy of Prabhudas Gandhi lives on through the hearts and actions of those who, like Peter, embraced the principles of nonviolence, truth, and self-sufficiency.

May their bond serve as an inspiration for all to cultivate such deep and meaningful connections!

Read also:

Gandhi and I  by Peter Rühe