Ahimsa
Ahimsa, the ancient Buddhist principle, and Gandhi's movement that calls for non-violence aimed to peacefully force the British out of India. However, the movement inspired violence, which is antithetical to the tenants of the movement and ahimsa itself.
Anjali's parents
Initially, Anjali thinks that her father will join Gandhi's movement. However, much to her surprise and amazement, Anjali's mother joins the movement. This confuses Anjali and eventually inspires her to join Gandhi's movement.
Anjali
Most readers would not expect Anjali, a younger girl with a diminutive stature, to join a movement that puts her in such magnificent danger. Most kids her age, after all, wouldn't join the movement. This adds intrigue to the story and creates the main conflict of the story as Anjali ventures into an unknown world.
The "Untouchables"
Anjali and her family, despite their high social status and caste, begin to interact with the "Untouchables" to help their mission out - going against the rules and social norms that every Indian person holds dear.
Clothes
Anjali and her family are in a caste and social strata that are able to afford new clothes that are made overseas. After all, they must look good for the people around them. However, they give up the clothes that they know and love in favor of homemade clothes in order to support the push for independence.
