The phrase ‘Gandhi Kanakku’ (Gandhiji’s account) in Tamil is one that is often used to refer to a sum of money that a lender knows he will not be able to recover. While the phrase itself is very popular, not many know the source of its origin.
But being one who knows what he’s talking about, Sampath Arumugham, the director of the film Gandhi Kanakku, offers an explanation.
Begins Sampath, “The phrase first came into existance during the Salt Satyagraha movement of Gandhiji. A lot of people from different parts of the country expressed a desire to join Gandhiji’s Satyagraha movement. However, not all could make it. So, some of them, especially those running eateries, offered to contribute to the movement by providing free food to those travelling from various parts to join the satyagraha. All that one participating in the Satyagraha movement had to do after having food was tell the cashier ‘Gandhi Kanakku’(To Gandhi’s account) and they would not be charged anything.”
But when did the phrase acquire a negative connotation?
Claims Sampath,”What happened was while the free food offer helped scores of sincere participants, a few loafers too took advantage of it. They would claim that they were participating in the Satyagraha and have free food but then, instead of proceeding to the Satyagraha, return home. It is because of such people that the phrase acquired a negative connotation.”
The director’s movie, which stars Ramanna and a new girl Richa in the lead, is to hit screens soon. Commenting on his film, he says, “My film will focus on the problems a middle-class family faces because of a privatised bank. It will create an awareness among the masses.”