Review of Gandhi (1982) by Nicole B — 20 Apr 2012

The movie begins with Gandhi's assassination on January 30, 1948. Gandhi was shot in the chest by one of his visitors that evening. Once Gandhi is shot he exclaims "Oh God/ He Ram", he then falls to his death. The movie then flashes back 55 years earlier when Gandhi is thrown off of a train in South Africa just for being an Indian, even though he holds a ticket for first class. Gandhi then realizes that the laws are unjust for Indian and he begins a non-violent protest for the rights of all Indian in South Africa. Gandhi is arrested several times during this protest but finally the government allows for some Indian rights in South Africa. Gandhi then returns to India and he is somewhat of a hero to his people in India. The people of India then convince Gandhi to fight for India's independence from Britain. Gandhi agrees and starts another non-violent campaign, he also urges millions of Indian's to get involved and join the campaign. The campaign is a success and Britain finally grants India independence. India is so grateful however there is more trouble brewing. India is now divided by religion, Muslims and Indians. The Northwest of India and eastern part of India will become a new country names Pakistan, this will be where the Muslims will stay, hoping this will end the violence between religions. Gandhi is opposed to this change and declares a hunger strike. Gandhi spends the last of his days trying to bring peace to both nations, this angers many people on both sides, so much so that one of them assassinates him. The film then begins to end and we are left seeing Gandhi's ashes being scattered into the Ganges River.

This movie is very important to World Religions. I think that Gandhi's peaceful movements did a lot of good for not only India but for all the nations around the world. Gandhi was an innovative thinker who wanted to change the world for the better and wanted to spread equality regardless of skin color or class. Gandhi set an example for the entire world, people in my generation are still learning from his actions and I think that is so amazing and moving. What a great man Gandhi was, I would have loved to meet him.