Gandhiji went to Champaran to enquire into the grievances of the indigo cultivators. Indigo cultivation was a major agricultural activity in the Champaran district of Bihar, but the indigo planters subjected the local farmers to exploitative practices. They were forced to grow indigo on a significant portion of their land and were paid very little for it. The system was known as the "Tinkathia system" and it involved the farmers being tied to the planters through unfair agreements.

Gandhiji, who had been practicing law in South Africa and was known for his activism, was invited by the farmers of Champaran to help them fight against these unjust practices. He arrived in Champaran in 1917 and conducted a detailed investigation into the condition of the indigo cultivators. He collected evidence, interviewed the affected farmers, and raised awareness about their plight.

Gandhiji`s visit to Champaran laid the foundation for his Satyagraha movement in India. It was his first major campaign in the country and played a crucial role in mobilizing the common people against oppressive practices and promoting the idea of nonviolent resistance.