The Champaran episode was a significant turning point in Mahatma Gandhi's life as it marked his first active involvement in the Indian freedom struggle and highlighted his deep concern for the common people. This incident took place in 1917 in Champaran, Bihar, where indigo planters were exploiting the local farmers through oppressive policies and forced cultivation of indigo.

Background of the Champaran Episode:
- Indigo planters in Champaran had been imposing unjust and exploitative conditions on the farmers.
- They forced the farmers to cultivate indigo on a portion of their lands, leaving them with little or no income from their own crops.
- The farmers were also subjected to heavy taxation and were not allowed to sell their crops in the open market.
- The British colonial administration turned a blind eye to these injustices, which further worsened the situation.

Gandhi's Involvement:
- Rajkumar Shukla, a farmer from Champaran, sought Gandhi's help in addressing the farmers' grievances.
- Gandhi initially hesitated but was convinced by Shukla's determination, which prompted him to visit Champaran and investigate the matter personally.

Gandhi's Consideration for Common People:
- Survey and Fact-Finding: Gandhi conducted a thorough survey of the situation in Champaran, meeting with farmers and collecting evidence of the exploitation they faced.
- Legal Aid: Gandhi provided legal assistance to the farmers, helping them understand their rights and guiding them through the legal process.
- Nonviolent Resistance: Gandhi advocated for nonviolent resistance against the oppressive policies. He urged the farmers to refuse to pay taxes and continue cultivating their own crops.
- Negotiations: Gandhi engaged in negotiations with the British authorities, demanding justice for the farmers and the abolition of the Tinkathia system (forced indigo cultivation).
- Satyagraha: Gandhi organized peaceful protests and launched a movement of civil disobedience, known as Satyagraha, to draw attention to the farmers' plight.

Impact and Significance:
- The Champaran episode marked the beginning of Gandhi's active involvement in the Indian freedom struggle.
- It showcased Gandhi's commitment to fighting for the rights of the common people and his willingness to confront oppressive systems.
- The successful resolution of the issue in Champaran boosted Gandhi's confidence in the power of nonviolence and set the stage for his future campaigns.
- Gandhi's Champaran experience laid the foundation for his later movements like the Non-Cooperation Movement and the Salt March, which played crucial roles in India's struggle for independence.

In conclusion, the Champaran episode was a turning point in Gandhi's life as it propelled him into the forefront of the freedom struggle and demonstrated his deep concern for the common people. Through his actions in Champaran, Gandhi showcased his determination to fight against injustice and his unwavering commitment to nonviolent resistance.