Rohan was nervous. His school was holding a debate on leadership, and he had chosen Mahatma Gandhi. Many classmates teased him. ‘Too old-fashioned,’ they said.
That evening, Rohan opened a worn book about Gandhiji. One story caught his eye. As a young lawyer in South Africa, Gandhi was once thrown off a train for refusing to give up his seat. He could have reacted with anger or violence. Instead, he chose courage and truth. That moment changed his life and later inspired a whole nation to fight injustice peacefully.
The next day, Rohan stood on the stage. His voice shook at first, but he remembered Gandhi’s calm strength. He spoke about how non-violence is not weakness, but the power to control anger. He explained how Gandhiji led millions through simple actions, such as spinning khadi and marching with salt, proving that change begins with ordinary people.
When Rohan finished, the hall was silent. Then came applause. Even the classmates who had laughed were clapping.
Rohan realised something important. You do not need to be loud to be strong. Like Mahatma Gandhi, standing by the truth, even when it is difficult, can inspire others. Real leadership begins with courage in the heart.
