Moniya

He was the favourite child of the family and was called 'Moniya' by his fond parents and their friends. Moniya adored his mother.

Mahatma Gandhi's Childhood Name: Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi

Introduction
Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, popularly known as Mahatma Gandhi, was a prominent leader of the Indian independence movement against British rule. Born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, a coastal town in Gujarat, India, he was given the name Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi at birth.

The Childhood Name
Gandhi's childhood name was Mohandas, which was given to him by his parents. Mohandas was the fourth child of his parents, Karamchand Gandhi and Putlibai Gandhi. In Hindu tradition, it is common for parents to give their children a childhood name, which is often different from the name by which they are known later in life.

Meaning of the Name
The name Mohandas is derived from two Sanskrit words: "moha" meaning "attachment" and "anda" meaning "bliss" or "delight." Therefore, the name Mohandas can be interpreted to mean "one who finds delight in attachment." This name reflects the importance of attachment and relationships in Gandhi's life, as he believed in the power of love and compassion towards all beings.

Significance of the Name Change
As Gandhi grew up and became more involved in the struggle for Indian independence, he underwent a transformation and adopted the name Mahatma, which means "great soul" in Sanskrit. This name change signified the spiritual journey and personal growth Gandhi had experienced over the years. It also reflected his role as a leader and his commitment to nonviolence and truth.

Conclusion
While Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi was his childhood name, it was later replaced by the name Mahatma Gandhi due to his immense contributions to the Indian freedom struggle and his embodiment of principles such as nonviolence and truth. The name Mohandas reminds us of his humble beginnings and the values instilled in him during his childhood, which played a significant role in shaping him into the Mahatma that the world remembers today.