Last updated on: March 6, 2026
Ela Gandhi was born on July 1, 1940, in Durban, South Africa. She grew up at the historic Phoenix Settlement, a community founded by her famous grandfather, Mahatma Gandhi.
Ela is the youngest daughter of Manilal Gandhi and Sushila Gandhi. Her father played an important role in Gandhi’s movement in South Africa. He also worked as the editor of the newspaper Indian Opinion, which supported the fight for justice and equality.
Growing up in such an environment shaped Ela’s values. From a young age, she learned about peace, fairness, and service to others.
Quick Facts About Ela Gandhi
| Full Name | Ela Gandhi |
| Birthdate | July 1, 1940 |
| Age | 85 years and 8 months old |
| Occupation | Peace activist, social worker, politician |
| Husband/Wife | Mewa Ramgobin (South African anti-apartheid activist and politician) |
| Education | BA – University of Natal; Honours in Social Science – University of South Africa |
| Parents
Grandparents |
Father – Manilal Gandhi; Mother – Sushila Gandhi |
| Siblings | Sita Gandhi; Arun Gandhi |
| Children | Keshav Ramgobin; Kusum Ramgobin |
| Net Worth | <$1 million |
A Special Memory With Her Grandfather
Ela Gandhi met her grandfather when she was seven years old. In 1946–1947, she traveled with her family to India. During this visit, she spent several months with him at Sevagram Ashram.
At that time, India was going through a difficult period. The country was close to independence, but tensions were rising before the Partition of India.
Despite the serious situation, Ela had warm memories of her grandfather. He once wrote her a letter advising her to practice silence. He believed quiet reflection could help her balance her lively and talkative nature.
Education and Early Work
Ela Gandhi later focused on education and social service. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Natal, now part of the University of KwaZulu-Natal.
She continued her studies and completed an honors degree in social science from the University of South Africa.
After finishing her studies, Ela worked as a social worker. She helped people in black townships and Indian communities. Many families faced poverty and unfair treatment during that time. Her work focused on helping those who needed support the most.
Fight Against Apartheid
South Africa was under the system of Apartheid for many years. This system treated people differently based on race.
Ela Gandhi joined the struggle against apartheid while she was still young. At the age of twelve, she took part in the Defiance Campaign.
Her activism brought many challenges. The apartheid government placed restrictions on her activities. She also faced arrests and bans. Even with these difficulties, she continued her work for justice and equality.
Ela always believed in peaceful change. Her approach followed the same principle of nonviolence that her grandfather taught.
Political Career in South Africa
After apartheid ended, South Africa became a democracy. Ela Gandhi then entered politics to help rebuild the country.
She joined the African National Congress, the party that played a key role in ending apartheid.
From 1994 to 2004, Ela served as a Member of Parliament representing Phoenix in KwaZulu-Natal. During her time in parliament, she worked on issues such as welfare, justice, and social development.
She also took part in committees that looked at public services and community support programs.
Community Work and Peace Efforts
Ela Gandhi has always believed that real change starts in communities. She founded the Gandhi Development Trust.
This organization promotes peace education, conflict resolution, and social development. It also works to reduce violence and encourage dialogue between communities.
She also helped start a 24-hour program that supports victims of domestic violence. This program provides help and protection for people facing abuse.
Ela later served as Chancellor of the Durban University of Technology, where she supported education and youth leadership.
Awards and Recognition
Ela Gandhi’s work has received recognition around the world. In 2007, the Government of India awarded her the Padma Bhushan.
She also received the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman in 2014. This award honors people of Indian origin who have made important contributions abroad.
READ ALSO: Mahatma Gandhi Net worth, Age, Wife, Family, Facts & More
Continuing Gandhi’s Legacy
Today, Ela Gandhi is respected as a global voice for peace and justice. Her life shows how the ideas of truth, nonviolence, and equality can guide social change.
As the granddaughter of Mahatma Gandhi, she carries forward a powerful legacy. Through her activism, political work, and community service, she has helped keep those ideals alive for new generations.
