Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, commonly known as Mahatma Gandhi, was a prominent Indian leader who played a significant role in India’s struggle for independence from British colonial rule. Born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, Gujarat, he studied law in London before embarking on a legal career in South Africa, where he developed his philosophy of nonviolent civil disobedience. Gandhi returned to India in 1915 and became the leader of the Indian National Congress, advocating for the rights of the poor, farmers, and workers. He led numerous nonviolent protests and movements against various British policies, such as the Salt March and the Quit India movement. Gandhi’s unwavering commitment to nonviolence, truth, and self-sufficiency earned him the title of “Mahatma,” meaning “great soul.” Despite imprisonment, violence, and many personal sacrifices, Gandhi persevered in his pursuit of India’s independence. His tireless efforts ultimately led to Britain granting India independence in 1947. Unfortunately, on January 30, 1948, Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated by a Hindu nationalist who opposed his vision of a united and inclusive India. Nevertheless, Gandhi’s legacy endures, and he is widely revered as the “father of the nation” in India and as a symbol of global peaceful resistance.
