Pronunciation: [kˈɛdə] (IPA) 
The word "kheda" is spelled with the letters k-h-e-d-a. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is spelled as /ˈkɛdə/. The first sound /k/ is a voiceless velar stop, the second sound /ɛ/ is a mid-front unrounded vowel, the third sound /d/ is a voiced alveolar stop, and the final sound /ə/ is a schwa vowel, which is unstressed and reduced in pronunciation. Overall, the word "kheda" is pronounced as "KED-uh" with the stress on the first syllable.
Kheda, in its primary definition, refers to a term prominently used in the Indian state of Gujarat. It signifies a form of protest or resistance, commonly employed by the rural population, where people collectively withdraw their services, such as farming or working, as a means to demand justice, assert their rights, or protest against a perceived injustice or unfairness. The aim of kheda is to create economic pressure on the opposing party, usually the government or higher authorities, by denying them the benefits of labor and resources until their demands are met.
The term "kheda" is derived from the Gujarati language, where it literally translates to "a strike" or "refusal to work." However, it conveys a deeper sense of nonviolent social resistance, reminiscent of the principles of satyagraha and civil disobedience, which were famously practiced by Mahatma Gandhi during India's struggle for independence.
Kheda has been historically employed by farmers and peasants to protest against issues such as unjust taxation, excessive land rents, or unfulfilled promises made by officials. It serves as a powerful tool for collective action and mobilization of the masses, highlighting their grievances and demanding redressal.
Overall, kheda can be understood as a form of nonviolent protest in rural areas of Gujarat, where people collectively withhold their labor or services to bring attention to their grievances and push for change.
The word "kheda" originates from the Hindi language, specifically from the dialect spoken in the state of Gujarat, India. In Gujarati, "kheda" (ખેડા) means a small village or a hamlet. It can also refer to an agricultural field or farmland. The term is derived from the Sanskrit word "kshetra" (क्षेत्र), which has a similar meaning of a cultivated or arable land. Over time, through linguistic evolution, "kshetra" transformed into "kheda" in the Gujarati dialect.
