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The 16 Best Documentaries About Mahatma Gandhi

Dec 19, 2023 | Best Of , History , Political

Mahatma Gandhi, also known as the “Father of the Nation” in India, was a prominent figure in the Indian independence movement. His non-violent approach and philosophy of Satyagraha (truth and non-violence) inspired millions around the world. He continues to be a revered figure globally for his contributions towards peace, justice, and human rights. If you’re interested in learning more about this iconic leader, documentaries are a great way to start. Here are 16 must-watch documentaries that offer a unique glimpse into the life and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi.

1. Mahatma Gandhi – dying for freedom  DW Documentary

Mahatma Gandhi, also known as the “Father of India”, was one of the most influential figures in modern history. His non-violent philosophy and revolutionary approach to social and political change has inspired many around the world. However, his life and legacy are still shrouded in mystery for many. The documentary “Mahatma Gandhi – dying for freedom” by DW explores the life and death of this iconic figure.

2. Gandhi – India’s Great Soul Documentary

Mahatma Gandhi, a name synonymous with peace and non-violent resistance, is undeniably one of the most influential figures in Indian history. His remarkable life and teachings have been captured in many forms, but nothing quite captures his essence like a well-made documentary. Among the plethora of documentaries about Gandhi, there are a few that truly stand out.

3. How Gandhi Became The Great Soul of India | Gandhi’s Awakening

Gandhi, a name that is synonymous with peace and nonviolence, is revered as the father of modern India. His legacy has had a profound impact not only on his homeland but also on the world at large. But how did this ordinary man become such an extraordinary soul? The documentary, “The Best Documentaries About Mahatma Gandhi,” delves into the life of Gandhi and explores his awakening that led him on the path to becoming one of the most influential figures in history.

4. The Assassination Of Gandhi – His Final Years  Gandhi’s Gift

As the sun sets on his final years, Gandhi’s journey comes to an end. But his legacy lives on, inspiring generations to come. In “The Assassination of Gandhi: His Final Years”, we are taken on a tumultuous ride through the last days of this great leader. Through rare footage and intimate interviews with those who were by his side, we witness the struggles and triumphs of Gandhi’s final moments.

5. Mahatma Gandhi – Pilgrim of Peace – documentary film, cooler & b/w, 1997

Mahatma Gandhi, also known as the ‘Father of the Nation’ in India, is a name that needs no introduction. His legacy and teachings have influenced people all over the world for decades. Born on October 2nd, 1869 in Porbandar, Gujarat, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi went on to become one of the most iconic figures in history. Pilgrim of Peace is a documentary film that takes us on a journey through the life of Mahatma Gandhi.

6. The Assassination of Mahatma Gandhi –  Who Killed Gandhi?

For many people, Mahatma Gandhi is the embodiment of peace, non-violence and social justice. His philosophy has inspired movements around the world and his legacy continues to guide us towards a better future. However, there is one dark chapter in his story that still remains shrouded in mystery – his assassination.

7. Mahatma Gandhi documentary – English

Mahatma Gandhi, also known as the “Father of the Nation” in India, was a prominent figure in the Indian independence movement. He is widely recognized for his nonviolent philosophy of satyagraha, which means “truth force.” Gandhi’s teachings and methods continue to inspire people all over the world. His life and legacy have been captured in various documentaries that aim to educate, inform and inspire viewers.

8. Mahatma Gandhi – dying for freedom

Mahatma Gandhi – an iconic figure who led India’s nonviolent movement for independence against British rule. His teachings of ahimsa (nonviolence) and satyagraha (truth-force) inspired millions of people around the world, including civil rights leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela. But what was it about Gandhi that made him such a powerful and influential leader? How did he manage to unite a diverse population in their fight against one of the world’s most powerful empires?

9. The Problems with Mahatma Gandhi

Mahatma Gandhi is often hailed as one of the greatest leaders and freedom fighters in history. His non-violent approach to activism has inspired many and he is remembered for his role in India’s independence from British rule. However, despite his revered status, there are some who argue that Gandhi had flaws that are often overlooked. One of the main criticisms against Gandhi is his views on race and caste.

10. 40 Facts You Didn’t Know About Mahatma Gandhi

Mahatma Gandhi is a name that needs no introduction. His profound impact on the course of history and his unwavering commitment to non-violent resistance have made him an icon for generations. Known as the Father of Nation in India, Gandhi led the country’s struggle for independence from British rule in the early 20th century. But beyond his political achievements, there are many fascinating facts about this great leader that often go unnoticed.

11. The Making of GANDHI

Mahatma Gandhi, also known as the “Father of the Nation”, is one of the most influential figures in Indian history. His nonviolent approach to fighting for India’s independence from British rule inspired millions around the world and continues to be a source of inspiration even today.

12. “MAHATMA – Life of Gandhi 1869-1948” – full version (5hrs 10min)

Gandhi, an iconic figure in Indian history and known as the Father of the Nation, is someone whose name evokes respect and admiration. His philosophy of non-violent resistance has inspired generations to fight for their rights peacefully.

13. BBC Documentary – In Search of Gandhi

Gandhi, a name that reverberates with peaceful resistance and nonviolent protests against the mighty British empire. A man who inspired millions of people through his philosophy of Ahimsa (nonviolence) and Satyagraha (truth force).

14. Gandhi The Road to Freedom – British Propaganda – BBC Documentary 1/6

Mahatma Gandhi, the father of Indian independence, is revered as one of the greatest leaders in history. His nonviolent approach to resistance and relentless pursuit of justice has inspired generations.

15. Mohandas Gandhi: A Catalyst for Change

Mohandas Gandhi, often referred to as Mahatma Gandhi or Bapu, was a prominent figure in India’s struggle for independence from British rule. Born on October 2nd, 1869 in Porbandar, Gujarat, Gandhi is known for his teachings of nonviolent resistance and civil disobedience.

16. The Dark Side of Mahatma Gandhi

Mahatma Gandhi is often revered as one of the greatest leaders in modern history, known for his peaceful resistance and nonviolent protests against colonial rule. He has been immortalized in countless books, movies, and documentaries which focus on his role in India’s independence movement.

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The Best Movies About Gandhi, Ranked

From documentaries to biopics, we're ranking the best movies about Mahatma Gandhi. The Indian civil rights activist has been depicted numerous times in film and TV, but this list only features movies where Mahatma Gandhi is the central character. What is the best Gandhi movie?

In one of his greatest roles, Ben Kingsley won the Best Actor Oscar  for his portrayal in the critically acclaimed film   Gandhi . Other good Gandhi documentaries and biographical films include Welcome Back Gandhi ,  Sardar , and Dear Friend Hitler .

Vote up the best movies about Mahatma Gandhi, and feel free to add your favorites if they're missing from the list. 

• Released : 1982
• Directed by : Richard Attenborough

Mahatma: Life of Gandhi, 1869–1948

• Released : 1968
• Directed by : Vithalbhai Jhaveri

Alluri Seetarama Raju

• Released : 1974
• Directed by : V. Ramachandra Rao

Gandhi, My Father

• Released : 2007
• Directed by : Feroz Abbas Khan

Gandhi to Hitler

• Released : 2011
• Directed by : Rakesh Ranjan Kumar

The Making of the Mahatma

• Released : 1996
• Directed by : Shyam Benegal

• Cast & crew
• User reviews

The life of the lawyer who became the famed leader of the Indian revolts against the British rule through his philosophy of nonviolent protest. The life of the lawyer who became the famed leader of the Indian revolts against the British rule through his philosophy of nonviolent protest. The life of the lawyer who became the famed leader of the Indian revolts against the British rule through his philosophy of nonviolent protest.

• Richard Attenborough
• John Briley
• Ben Kingsley
• John Gielgud
• Rohini Hattangadi
• 360 User reviews
• 108 Critic reviews
• 79 Metascore
• 35 wins & 23 nominations total

Top cast 99+

• Mahatma Gandhi

• Kasturba Gandhi
• (as Rohini Hattangady)

• Pandit Nehru

• Margaret Bourke-White

• General Dyer

• Judge Broomfield

• The Viceroy

• Charlie Andrews

• Herman Kallenbach
• (as Gunter Maria Halmer)

• General Smuts

• Sardar Patel

• Mohamed Ali Jinnah

• Senior Police Officer

• Principal Secretary
• All cast & crew
• Production, box office & more at IMDbPro

Best Picture Winners by Year

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Did you know

• Trivia Over 300,000 extras appeared in the funeral sequence. About 200,000 were volunteers, and 94,560 were paid a small fee (under contract). The sequence was filmed on January 31, 1981, the 33rd anniversary of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi's funeral. Eleven crews shot over 20,000 feet of film, which was pared down to two minutes and five seconds in the final release.
• Goofs In the opening scene in South Africa, Gandhi is riding first class on a steam locomotive. The first class car is shown as the forward car, closest to the engine. In passenger steam engines, first class would be the rearmost car, farthest away from the engine's heat and exhaust. Second or third class would be nearest the engine.

Gandhi : An eye for an eye only ends up making the whole world blind.

• Crazy credits Opening credits prologue: No man's life can be encompassed in one telling. There is no way to give each year its allotted weight, to include each event, each person who helped to shape a lifetime. What can be done is to be faithful in spirit to the record and try to find one's way to the heart of the man.... NEW DELHI INDIA 30th JANUARY 1948
• Alternate versions In April 2005, Skoll launched the Gandhi Project in partnership with Silicon Valley entrepreneur Kamran Elahian. Working with Palestinian voice actors and artists, an award-winning director dubbed the epic film into Arabic. It is being screened throughout Palestine in order to advance civil society goals of peaceful resistance, self-reliance, economic development and local empowerment, and plans are underway to expand screenings throughout the Arab world.
• Connections Featured in The Making of Gandhi: Mr. Attenborough and Mr. Gandhi (1983)
• Soundtracks God Save the King! (1744) (uncredited) Music attributed to Henry Carey Sung by Ben Kingsley Reprised when India achieves independence

User reviews 360

• The movie man
• Dec 4, 1999
• How long is Gandhi? Powered by Alexa
• What is 'Gandhi' about?
• Is 'Gandhi' based on a book?
• When did Richard Attenborough ask Candice Bergen to play this role in Gandhi?
• February 25, 1983 (United States)
• United Kingdom
• Richard Attenborough's Film: Gandhi
• Old Town Hall, Staines, Surrey, England, UK (courtroom in India)
• International Film Investors
• National Film Development Corporation of India (NFDC)
• Goldcrest Films International
• See more company credits at IMDbPro
• $22,000,000 (estimated)
• $52,767,889
• Dec 12, 1982
• $52,768,419

Technical specs

• Runtime 3 hours 11 minutes
• Black and White
• Dolby Atmos

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