India - the Mother

August 4, 1931

(Regarding a statement by an Indian living in America, which described Gandhi and Tagore as the two most popular figures in India.)

For foreigners these two men seem to be the only ones who represent Indian genius. This is very far from the truth.... India has far greater geniuses than these and in the most varied fields, scientific, literary, philosophic, spiritual. It is true that the young people from Shantiniketan come out refined, but without any force or energy for realization. As for Gandhi's young people, they may have more energy and power of action, but they are imprisoned within the four walls of a few narrow ideas and a limited mind.

I repeat, there is better, far better in India, but this India does not care for international glory.

Some Answers from the Mother: 4 August 1931