Mahatma Gandhi, born Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi in 1869, was a pivotal figure in the history of India and a global icon for nonviolent resistance. His philosophy of Satyagraha, or nonviolent protest, became a cornerstone of India’s struggle for independence from British colonial rule. Gandhi’s approach to resistance was rooted in the belief that change could only be achieved through peaceful methods, rejecting violence even in the face of aggression. He led numerous campaigns, such as the Salt March in 1930, which defied British laws, and the Quit India Movement in 1942, demanding an immediate end to British rule. His insistence on truth, nonviolence, and civil disobedience inspired movements for civil rights and freedom across the world.
Beyond his political work, Gandhi was also deeply committed to social justice. He fought for the rights of the untouchables, whom he called “Harijans” (children of God), and worked tirelessly to promote social equality, women’s rights, and religious harmony. Gandhi’s personal lifestyle reflected his principles, as he embraced simple living, wore handmade clothes, and promoted self-sufficiency through initiatives like the spinning wheel for khadi (Indian-made cloth). His influence extended far beyond India, inspiring leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela, and Cesar Chavez. Gandhi’s legacy of nonviolent activism continues to resonate today, symbolizing the power of peaceful protest in the pursuit of justice.
