The Communication Conclave 2024, organized by the Public Relations Society of Delhi (PRSD), featured a thought-provoking panel discussion titled “Gandhian Communication: Catalyst for India’s Freedom Struggle.” Moderated by Dr. Sarvesh Tiwari, Chairman of PRSD and Founder & MD of PRP Group, the session brought together a distinguished panel of speakers, including Shri Srijan Pal Singh, CEO of Kalam Center and a well-known author and social entrepreneur; Shri Shishir Sinha, Associate Editor of The Hindu Business Line; Shri Rakesh Sharma, Founder Chairman of Rashtriya Jagran Chetana Manch and former President of INS; and Dr. Jawahar Karnawat, author and former General Manager of Bank of Baroda.
The discussion focused on Gandhiji’s unique style of communication during India’s freedom struggle and explored the hypothetical question: Would India have gained independence if there had been Artificial Intelligence (AI) and social media during the freedom movement?
Shri Srijan Pal Singh opened the discussion by highlighting the transformative influence of AI, noting that today, AI—especially Generative AI—is not just a tool but an agent capable of independent thought. He compared this to the revolution brought about by the printing press, first used in 1454, and how powerful tools in the hands of people can influence the dissemination of truth. He raised the question of how AI, with its vast capacity for information sharing, could have potentially altered the course of India’s struggle for independence. However, he cautioned that access to information doesn’t always guarantee the pursuit of truth, a point that becomes even more relevant with AI systems that are beginning to “think” for themselves.
Shri Shishir Sinha delved into the 7-38-55 rule of communication, which states that only 7% of communication comes from words, while 38% is conveyed through tone of voice and 55% through body language. Gandhiji mastered this, making his presence and tone a crucial part of his persuasive strategy. His calm and confident demeanour reinforced the message of peace and persistence.
The panel then discussed Gandhiji’s effective use of non-verbal communication and persuasive techniques. Shri Rakesh Sharma spoke about how Gandhiji did not need hashtags or digital platforms; instead, he used symbolic tools like his iconic lathi, representing strength and nonviolence. His non-verbal communication—particularly how he carried himself and his actions—profoundly impacted the masses, reinforcing his message of nonviolent resistance.
Dr. Jawahar Karnawat provided insights into Gandhiji’s use of print media, such as Indian Opinion, Young India, and Navjivan Press, which were pivotal in spreading his ideas of nonviolence, justice, and independence. He emphasized how Gandhiji believed that journalism should never be used for selfish ends, but to serve the public good and teach by example. Gandhiji’s mastery of both verbal and non-verbal communication made him a true mass communicator and a persuasive force in uniting the country.
While the panel acknowledged the power of AI in sharing information quickly and widely, they also highlighted that the pursuit of truth—central to Gandhiji’s philosophy—must remain at the heart of journalism and public communication, even as technology evolves.
Dr. Sarvesh Tiwari wrapped up the session by reiterating that there has been no greater mass communicator than Gandhiji, whose communication was grounded in truth, nonviolence, and sincerity. His message, conveyed through actions and words, remains as relevant today as it was during the freedom struggle.