 |
| A screenshot of Fox movietone interview with Mahatma Gandhi (video below) |
October 2, 015, NewsCrunch
If you have ever wondered what Mahatma Gandhi was made of, a video of an interview of him by Fox Movietone, should answer your question.
The interview, recorded by Fox movietone at Borsad possibly in late 1920s, gives an insight into Bapu.
The American reporter is out of his league, while Mahatma is thoughtful, uses pauses and wit to fend off the questions thrown at him.
Even if you have not heard or seen any Gandhi footage before, the video would still look familiar. You can thank the brilliance of Ben Kingsley for that; he managed to capture Gandhi's mannerisms and speech with impressive authenticity.
As the Fox reporter approaches, an aide cautions him that Gandhi has a feeble voice and is prejudiced against talkies.
The aide had clearly underestimated Gandhi's love for journalists - he knew how to use them to pile pressure on the British.
In the interview, Gandhi looks almost reluctant, plays cards close to chest. He says he cannot reveal all his strategy on what he will do if the British do not listen to him
A few segments make the interview footage priceless archival material.
Reporter :- "And if the king of England invited you to dinner at Buckhimgam Palace you would go in your customary Indian dress?"
Gandhi :-"In any other dress I would be most discourteous to him because I should be artificial."
Reporter :- "If England does not meet your demand are you prepared to return to jail?"
Gandhi :- I am always prepared to go to jail
Reporter :- Would you be prepared to die in the cause of Indian independence?
Gandhi :-That is a bad question
Gandhi also says after India gets independence he would ensure absolute prohibition in the country and ban child marriage as well.