Mahatma Gandhi played a major part in the independence of India, primarily through his Hindu beliefs. Even though most of his followers often tried to persuade him to fight back against the British Empire, he stood by his values. Gandhi's idea of Hinduism included the idea of non-violence and simplicity. For example, in the movie on multiple accounts, he is beat viciously by the British policemen. However, unlike what most human beings would do--fight back, Gandhi chooses to take the blows. "If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also", he stated. This shows how strong Gandhi was mentally, to have the discipline to not strike back, and that non-violence was one of Gandhi's most important ideals. In addition, Mahatma Gandhi also stressed being simple. For example, he gave up wearing western-style clothing, and always wore plain, cotton clothes, that he spun himself. In the movie, there were multiple scenes where Gandhi is shown spinning his own clothes. He believed that leading a simple life was important.
"An eye for an eye only ends up making the whole world blind," Mahatma Gandhi once said. This quote shows how important non-violence was to him. His understanding of violence was that it can only cause harm, and cannot do good in any circumstances. For example, many times throughout the movie, whenever the Indians fought or rioted against the British, Gandhi would fast himself and threaten to die if they did not stop. Non-violence was so important to him that he was prepared to die for the cause. In the end, because of Mahatma Gandhi's bravery, India became an independent nation.
