Gandhi (1982), directed and produced by Richard Attenborough, is an epic biographical drama that traces the extraordinary life and legacy of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, the iconic leader of India's nonviolent struggle for independence from British colonial rule. The film, with a powerful screenplay by John Briley, stars Ben Kingsley in a transformative, Oscar-winning performance as Gandhi, capturing the spiritual depth, political acumen, and unwavering conviction of the man known to millions as the Mahatma. Spanning Gandhi's life from his formative years in South Africa—where a pivotal incident on a train in 1893 catalysed his awakening to injustice—through his tireless leadership in India's freedom movement, the film culminates in his tragic assassination and state funeral in 1948. Although Gandhi was a devout Hindu, the film poignantly explores his embrace of religious pluralism, highlighting his respect for Christianity and Islam. Boasting a stellar ensemble cast, the film features Rohini Hattangadi as Kasturba Gandhi, Roshan Seth as Jawaharlal Nehru, and Saeed Jaffrey as Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Notable performances also include Candice Bergen as photojournalist Margaret Bourke-White, Edward Fox as Brigadier General Reginald Dyer, and John Gielgud as Viceroy Lord Irwin. A young Daniel Day-Lewis makes an early appearance, while Martin Sheen portrays Vince Walker, a fictional journalist inspired by Webb Miller. The film's authenticity is reinforced by a strong supporting cast, including Om Puri as a remorseful rioter, Amrish Puri as Dada Abdulla, and Alyque Padamsee as Muhammad Ali Jinnah. From courtroom drama to sweeping political movements, the film is a masterclass in cinematic storytelling. Released by Columbia Pictures in late 1982, Gandhi was both a critical and commercial triumph. It grossed over 127.8 million USD globally on a modest 22 million USD budget and was lauded for its meticulous production design, powerful narrative, and historical accuracy. At the 55th Academy Awards, 1983, it received 11 nominations and won eight, including Best Picture, Best Director (Attenborough), and Best Actor (Kingsley). The British Film Institute later ranked it among the top 50 British films of the 20th Century, while the American Film Institute honoured it as one of the most inspiring movies ever made. More than just a biography, Gandhi is a moving tribute to a man whose message of peace and resistance continues to echo across the world.