Mahatma Gandhi was a leader of India’s independence movement and a worldwide champion of nonviolent resistance. Through peaceful civil disobedience, including the famous Salt March, he helped lead India to freedom from British rule. His philosophy of Satyagraha was grounded in truth, love, and nonviolence. He taught that lasting social change comes through moral courage and peaceful action. Gandhi also promoted the spinning wheel as a symbol of self-reliance, economic independence, and social unity, encouraging people to support the freedom movement through simple, meaningful work. Deeply inspired by the writings of Leo Tolstoy, especially The Kingdom of God Is Within You, he embraced ideals of nonviolence, simplicity, and spiritual growth. He also believed in caring for both body and mind. To learn more about his views on health and self-care, read Key to Health.