How was Mahatma Gandhi perceived by the peasants?

Explanation

(i) India is a country of villagers and vast number of Indians are engaged in farming.
Mahatma Gandhi knew that during freedom struggle his focus was to address the issues of farmers. He dressed like farmers. His involvement in Indian politics began in Champaran when he successfully resolved the issues of farmers.
(ii) He stood for farmers against excesses of the British government like high taxes and oppressive tax collections.
(iii) Apart from all the above, mystery also surrounded the personality of Mahatma Gandhi. Many believed he was endowed with supernatural powers. Stories spread that those who spoke ill of Mahatma Gandhi suffered natural calamities.
(iv) Thus, farmers perceived Mahatma Gandhi as their saviour and still many believed he was bestowed with the power to perform miracles.