Why is this critical dissection and criss cross interpretation on Gandhiji's.
Let us try to interpret him as a human in indian (cultural) context.
In indian spiritual teachings it is well established idea that spiritual energy increases once the mind's wanderings is calmed down including anger, jealosy and other negative emotions. Sexual energy to an extent serves biological purpose of producing offsprings and also increases bonding, affection etc in family life. Beyond a limit, it is again an expenditure of precious spiritual energy. Any one who has attempted in self control knows that attempts to manage any emotions like anger, one has to play hide and seek, some time overcoming the emotions and some times being carried away. Sexual emotions is much more tricky. How do i manage them. Generally we keep it to ourselves and discuss with only those in close circles who share these ideas. However Gandhiji wanted his life to be a open book and presented these things in writings and discussions. Dont some of us have friends whom we share our special interests be it hobby , say cricket or and have very good rapport. Often we have difference of opinion with our wife, and not able to convey and convince the selection of decisions ( be it not able attend a family function or choice of purchasing a apartment or furniture.) Any body can interpret any relation in different ways. A handshake can be a handshake or a physical touch. With what intention the person involved interact is one thing and how others interpret deliberately or unknowingly is another issue. Psychological interpretation is another such play of concepts. A mother child affection should be interpreted as extension of sexual interaction or motherhood is separate? Would you call a childs putting the finger into the mouth as behavior at that stage of growth or as manifestation of sexual desire.