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World renowned Indian spiritual leader and advocate of the philosophy of active non-violence, not only indulged in occasional games of bridge but even used bridge as a methphor to illustrate a basic Hindu belief. Gandhi was trained as attourney in England. During his years asa student, he emulated the British gentleman, taking dancing lessons, learning to play the violin and enjoying sessions of bridge.

In fact, "Hahatma"(or "Great Soul", as he came to be called) insists that the very first occasion on which he felt the influence of God in his life came during a bridge game at an English resort. According to Gandhi, a female member of his foursome began to making lascivious advances toward him. The lonely Gandhi, having left his bride at home in India, was about to succumb to temptation. The the hand of God stopped him. As he advanced spiritually, Gandhi never denigrated his bridge playing or other youthful experiences, looking upon them as formative.

In fact, when he later developed firm theological beliefs, mostly based upon orthodox Hinduism, he used bridge to discuss the relationship between "Kharma" (predetermined fate) and "dharma" (Man's action). Kharma is analogous to the hand dealt at bridge; Dharma is how man plays the hand. Man is not bound to predetermined destiny because he may play his hand well or poorly and it is ultimately up to him whether he wins or loses.

The final result of a man's life develops from his learning, striving and skill - not just from the hand he is dealt.