Experience the journey of a man who fought for India’s freedom with non-violence.
Watch the original version of Gandhi
Prologue:
In the early years of the 20th century, India was still a British colony, ruled by a foreign power that had oppressed its people for centuries. But as the winds of change began to sweep across the world, a new leader emerged, a man who would challenge the status quo and change the course of history.
Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, a British-trained lawyer, was not a natural revolutionary. Born in Porbandar, a small town in Gujarat, he was raised in a family of modest means, taught to respect authority, and imbued with the values of his Hindu faith. Yet he was also touched by a deep sense of justice, a desire to see his fellow Indians free from the shackles of colonialism.
As a young man, Gandhi travelled to London to study law, where he was exposed to the values of the Enlightenment and the ideals of democracy. But he also encountered the ugly face of racism, experiencing discrimination firsthand as a person of colour. This experience would shape his beliefs and fuel his lifelong fight against oppression.
Returning to India in 1915, Gandhi was shocked by the realities of life under British rule. Indians were treated as second-class citizens, denied basic rights and subjected to brutal repression. Gandhi knew that something had to be done, and he was determined to be the one to do it.
Chapter 1: The Awakening
It was a warm day in April 1915 when Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi set foot on Indian soil for the first time in five years. The train from Bombay had rattled across the countryside, through fields of cotton and rice, past villages of thatched huts and occasional stretches of tilled fields. The air was thick with the scent of spices, cow dung, and sweat. Gandhi felt a wave of emotion overwhelm him as he stepped onto the platform at Ahmedabad station.
He had come home, but he knew that the India he had returned to was not the one he had left behind. The British had tightened their grip on the country, imposing harsh new laws and taxes and suppressing any sign of dissent. Gandhi had heard stories of protests and rebellions, of angry mobs and brutal reprisals, but he had never seen it for himself. Now, as he made his way through the streets of Ahmedabad, he saw firsthand the poverty, the disease, and the injustice that plagued the land.
He had come to India to practice law, but he soon found himself drawn into the struggle for Indian independence. He spoke out against British rule, condemning the atrocities committed by the colonial government. He urged his fellow Indians to stand up for their rights, to demand justice and equality. And he realized that he had found his calling.
Gandhi’s message resonated with many Indians, especially those who had suffered under British rule. He began to attract followers, people who shared his vision of a free and independent India. They were inspired by his commitment to non-violent resistance, his refusal to resort to violence to achieve his goals. Gandhi’s approach was based on the principles of truth, love, and non-violence, which he called Satyagraha.
Satyagraha was not just a philosophy; it was a way of life. It required a deep commitment to truth and honesty, to compassion and tolerance. Gandhi urged his followers to resist the British in a peaceful and non-violent way, through boycotts, strikes, and civil disobedience. He believed that the power of the people could overcome the might of the British Empire.
Gandhi’s message soon spread across India, sparking a wave of civil disobedience and resistance. He organized strikes and protests, led marches and boycotts, and inspired thousands of Indians to join his cause. He became a symbol of hope and freedom, a beacon of light in a land that had been shrouded in darkness for too long.
But Gandhi’s journey was far from over. He would face countless challenges and setbacks, endure imprisonment and persecution, and witness the horrors of violence and bloodshed. But through it all, he would remain steadfast in his commitment to non-violence and his belief in the power of the people.
As Gandhi walked through the streets of Ahmedabad that day, he knew that a new chapter in Indian history was about to be written. He was determined to write it himself, to lead his people to freedom and independence. And he knew that he would not rest until that dream had been realized.
Chapter 2: The Salt March
As the sun began to rise over the Indian countryside, a group of men set out on a journey that would change the course of history. Led by Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, they marched towards the coastal town of Dandi, determined to defy the British salt tax and bring attention to their cause of independence.
Gandhi had been planning the Salt March for months, believing that non-violent civil disobedience was the most effective way to challenge British authority. The salt tax, which had been in place since 1882, was a particularly egregious example of British oppression. Indians were forced to pay exorbitant fees for a basic necessity of life, while the British government reaped enormous profits.
The march was a grueling ordeal, with the group covering over 240 miles on foot. Along the way, they were joined by thousands of supporters, swelling their numbers to a formidable force. Gandhi emphasized the importance of non-violence, instructing his followers to remain calm in the face of any provocation.
Finally, on April 6, 1930, the marchers reached the seaside town of Dandi. There, on the shore of the Arabian Sea, Gandhi picked up a handful of salt, in defiance of the British monopoly. The gesture was simple, but it sent shockwaves throughout India and the world.
The British authorities were taken aback by the Salt March, not knowing how to respond to a peaceful protest that was gaining momentum. They arrested Gandhi and many of his followers, hoping to quash the movement. But the Salt March had already achieved its goal, inspiring Indians to stand up against oppression and injustice.
As news of the Salt March spread, more and more Indians joined the call for independence. The British were forced to confront the reality that their rule over India was coming to an end. The Salt March had ignited a spark that would lead to the eventual formation of a free Indian nation.
But the march was not without its costs. Many of the participants faced brutal treatment at the hands of the British authorities, including beatings and imprisonment. The physical toll on Gandhi was also significant, as the 61-year-old leader suffered from exhaustion and illness.
Despite these challenges, the Salt March remained a pivotal moment in the fight for Indian independence. It showed that peaceful resistance could be a potent weapon against even the most powerful oppressors. Gandhi’s belief in the power of non-violence would shape the course of history, inspiring civil rights movements across the globe.
As the marchers made their way back home, they carried with them a sense of hope and determination. The Salt March had proven that change was possible, and that the Indian people had the strength and courage to demand their freedom.
Chapter 3: The Hunger Strike
In a small jail cell in Pune, Gandhi sat cross-legged on a mat, eyes closed in concentration. He had been on a hunger strike for four days, protesting against the inhumane conditions in which political prisoners were being held. His body was weak, but his spirit was strong.
Outside the jail, a crowd had gathered. People from all walks of life, armed with placards and slogans, shouted for the release of their beloved leader. The atmosphere was tense, and there was a palpable sense of fear in the air. The British authorities had ordered the police to use force if necessary to contain the protests.
Despite his fragile state, Gandhi refused to back down. He knew the power of non-violent resistance, and he was determined to use it to achieve his goals. As he meditated, his mind wandered to his past experiences in South Africa, where he had first discovered the power of non-violent protest.
Gandhi had been a lawyer in South Africa, representing the Indian community that faced widespread discrimination. He had been appalled by the injustice he saw around him, and he had decided to fight against it. He organized protests and strikes, insisting that the Indian community had a right to equal treatment.
One of his most famous protests was the Salt March – a 240-mile trek from Sabarmati Ashram to Dandi in protest against the British salt tax. The March was a huge success, inspiring thousands of Indians and bringing international attention to their cause.
The experience had taught Gandhi the power of passive resistance. He realized that violence only begets more violence, and that the only way to achieve true change was through peaceful means.
As he sat in his prison cell, Gandhi began to feel the effects of his hunger strike. His stomach was in knots, his vision blurred, and his head felt heavy. But still, he refused to eat.
The British authorities were growing increasingly concerned. They realized the impact that Gandhi’s hunger strike was having on the Indian people, and they feared that allowing him to die would only increase his popularity. They began to negotiate with him, promising to improve the conditions in the jail if he would end his hunger strike.
But Gandhi was not interested in negotiations. He was determined to achieve his goals on his own terms. He knew that the British authorities would only make superficial changes, and that the root of the problem would remain.
Finally, after twenty-one days of fasting, Gandhi ended his hunger strike. He had achieved his goal – the conditions in the jail had been improved, and the attention of the world had been drawn to the cause of Indian independence.
But the hunger strike had taken its toll on Gandhi. His health had suffered, and he had lost a significant amount of weight. He knew that he would have to take better care of himself if he wanted to continue his fight for independence.
The hunger strike became one of Gandhi’s most powerful weapons in his fight against the British. It showed the world the extent of the injustices that were being inflicted upon the Indian people, and it demonstrated the power of non-violent resistance.
As he left the jail, Gandhi knew that the fight for independence was far from over. But he also knew that he had the support of millions of Indians, and that his message of non-violent resistance would resonate around the world.
Chapter 4: The Round Table Conference
Gandhi arrived in London in 1931, to attend the Round Table Conference which was set up to discuss the future of India. The conference was attended by representatives from the British government, Indian political leaders and representatives from various religious communities.
As soon as Gandhi arrived in London, he met with many people who were sympathetic to India’s cause. However, he faced a lot of hostility from the British government who viewed him as a troublemaker and a hindrance to their plans for India.
The first session of the conference was held in November 1930. Gandhi was determined to achieve India’s independence through peaceful means, but he faced stiff opposition from the British government and some Indian leaders who favored a more aggressive approach.
Gandhi’s strategy was to use the conference to persuade the British government to grant India self-governance. He demanded complete independence, but the British government was not willing to concede to his demands.
The conference became heated as Gandhi, and the British representatives clashed over issues like India’s future as a Dominion or a Republic, British control over defense and foreign policy, as well as the separation of Muslims and Hindus.
Gandhi was uncompromising in his demands for independence and the British government was equally unyielding in their stance. Despite these disagreements, there were brief moments of agreement and compromise at the conference, and Gandhi hoped that they would lead to a peaceful resolution.
However, the conference was suspended in December 1930, after just a few weeks. The failure to reach a conclusion was a disappointment to Gandhi, and he was left disillusioned and angry.
During the break between the two sessions of the conference, Gandhi toured Europe, spreading his message of nonviolence and peaceful resistance. He met with many prominent figures, including Albert Einstein, and discussed the need for social and economic reform not only in India but around the world.
When the second session of the conference resumed in September 1931, tensions were high. Gandhi’s demands for India’s independence had not been met, and he was becoming increasingly frustrated with the British government’s intransigence.
At this point, Gandhi made a dramatic decision that would forever be remembered in Indian history. He announced that he would sacrifice his life for the cause of Indian independence, and began a hunger strike.
The hunger strike was a controversial move, and many of Gandhi’s followers were concerned for his health. The British government was also uneasy about the situation, knowing that if Gandhi died, it could lead to a massive uprising in India.
The pressure mounted on the British government, and eventually, a compromise was reached. The British agreed to release political prisoners, grant more freedom to the press, and allow Indians to participate more fully in their own governance.
The hunger strike came to an end, and Gandhi emerged as a hero to the Indian people. He had proven that peaceful resistance could be a powerful tool in the fight for independence, and his example inspired many others around the world to take up the cause of nonviolent protest.
Although it was not the complete independence that Gandhi had demanded, the Round Table Conference marked a significant turning point in India’s struggle for self-governance. It showed that the Indian people could unite behind a single cause, and that peaceful resistance could be a powerful force against oppression.
Chapter 5: The Partition
As India prepared for independence, the country was divided into two nations: India and Pakistan. The bloodshed and violence that followed weighed heavily on Gandhi’s conscience.
The wounds of the Partition still run deep in India and Pakistan today. It was a time of great upheaval, and many lives were lost.
Gandhi had always believed in the unity of India and worked tirelessly to bring Hindus and Muslims together. He saw the division of India as a betrayal of those efforts.
The British government had originally intended to keep India united, but the rising tensions between Hindus and Muslims made Partition seem inevitable. The Muslim League, led by Muhammad Ali Jinnah, demanded a separate Muslim homeland.
Gandhi was strongly opposed to the idea of Partition. He believed that India should remain united and that Hindus and Muslims could live together in harmony. He spent months touring the country, trying to convince people of his vision.
But despite his efforts, communal violence broke out across India as the date of Partition approached. Hindus and Muslims attacked each other in a wave of riots, arson, and looting.
Gandhi, who was in Calcutta at the time, was deeply disturbed by the violence. He went on a hunger strike in protest, hoping to convince people to stop the bloodshed.
His fast drew attention from around the world, and people began to take notice of the horrors of Partition. But unfortunately, his fast did little to quell the violence.
As the date of Partition approached, millions of Hindus and Muslims found themselves on the wrong side of the border. Many were forced to flee their homes and flee their ancestral lands, which were now part of the other country.
The British government, in an attempt to make the transition smoother, had set a date for Partition: August 15, 1947. But even as India and Pakistan celebrated their newfound independence, violence continued to rage.
The newly formed governments struggled to keep order as refugees poured into their countries. The violence was particularly brutal in Punjab, where Hindus and Muslims were massacred in large numbers.
Gandhi was heartbroken by the violence and the hatred that had consumed India. He saw the Partition as a failure of his vision of non-violence and unity.
As the world watched India descend into chaos, Gandhi continued to preach his message of peace and harmony. He knew that the wounds of Partition would take generations to heal, but he believed that his vision of a united India could still be achieved.
But just a few months after Partition, his vision would be cut short. On January 30, 1948, Gandhi was assassinated by a fanatic who disagreed with his policies of non-violence and peaceful coexistence.
Despite his death, Gandhi’s legacy lived on. He became a symbol of peaceful resistance and inspired future civil rights movements around the world. The Partition of India may have been a tragic event, but Gandhi’s message of unity and love remains as relevant today as it did then.
Chapter 6: The Assassination
The sun was setting on January 30, 1948, as Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi made his way through the streets of Delhi. He was on his way to a prayer meeting, as he did every evening. But this day was different. As he walked, a young man stepped out of the crowd and approached him. The man, Nathuram Godse, bowed to Gandhi and then pulled out a pistol. In a split second, he fired three shots at Gandhi, who fell to the ground.
The crowd was stunned. Some people rushed to help Gandhi, while others chased after the killer. Godse was soon caught and taken into custody. Meanwhile, Gandhi was rushed to a nearby hospital, but it was too late. The Father of the Nation was dead.
The news of Gandhi’s assassination spread quickly. People across India were in shock and grief. The streets were filled with mourners. The government declared a national holiday, and schools and businesses closed for three days.
But while the nation mourned, there were some who celebrated. Godse and his accomplices had been members of the extremist Hindu nationalist group, the RSS. They had disagreed with Gandhi’s policies of non-violence and peaceful coexistence. To them, he was a traitor who had sold out India to the Muslims. They saw his death as a victory.
The government moved swiftly to apprehend the killers and bring them to justice. Godse and his accomplices were put on trial. They pleaded guilty to the charges, stating that they had killed Gandhi because they felt he was ruining the country.
As the trial went on, the whole nation watched with bated breath. People wanted justice for the man who had given his life for their freedom. The court heard the arguments of the defense and the prosecution, and eventually, the verdict was delivered. Godse and his accomplices were found guilty and sentenced to death.
The country was stunned by the verdict. Some people felt that the death penalty was too harsh, while others believed that it was justified. Gandhi himself had been opposed to the death penalty, and his followers wondered what he would have thought about the sentence.
But the assassination had far-reaching consequences beyond the death of one man. It shook the foundations of the nation and threatened to tear it apart. The leaders of the nation tried to keep the peace, but the wounds were deep.
The assassination also had an impact on the country’s politics. The Congress Party, which had been led by Gandhi, was plunged into turmoil. Without his unifying force, the party was torn apart by internal divisions. The opposition parties saw their chance and began to gain ground.
But even in death, Gandhi’s message of peace and non-violence continued to inspire. His life had been a testament to the power of love and compassion. His death had shocked the nation, but his legacy lived on.
In the months and years that followed, the country slowly began to heal. The wounds of the partition were still fresh, but people began to see that the only way forward was through unity and understanding. Gandhi’s ideals of non-violence and peaceful coexistence continued to guide them. His message had transcended his life, and his legacy had become a beacon of hope for future generations.
Chapter 7: The Legacy
The death of Gandhi left a nation in mourning and sent shockwaves around the world. The man, who had dedicated his life to peace and social justice, was gone, and India was left to face an uncertain future.
The assassination of Gandhi came at a time when the country was in turmoil. The partition had led to widespread violence and uprooted millions of people from their homes. Hindus and Muslims were at each other’s throats, and the fragile unity that Gandhi had worked so hard to build seemed to be crumbling.
But even as the country mourned, Gandhi’s legacy lived on. His message of non-violence and peaceful resistance had inspired millions of people around the world, and it would continue to influence generations of social activists and civil rights leaders.
Gandhi’s followers were determined to continue his work, and they set out to build a society that reflected his values. They established schools, hospitals, and other institutions that were open to people of all religions and castes. They worked tirelessly to promote social justice and to fight against poverty and inequality.
But Gandhi’s legacy was not just confined to India. His ideas and teachings had a profound impact on the world, and they continue to resonate with people today. His message of non-violence and peaceful coexistence has inspired countless movements for social change, from the civil rights movement in the United States to the struggle against apartheid in South Africa.
Gandhi’s life and work were not without controversy, and he had his critics both in India and abroad. Some accused him of being too passive, while others argued that his ideas were impractical and unrealistic. But even his harshest critics could not deny the impact that he had on the world.
In the years since his death, Gandhi’s legacy has been the subject of countless books, films, and works of art. His image is instantly recognisable, and his name is synonymous with the struggle for social justice and peace.
But perhaps the most significant legacy of Gandhi is the one that is felt by ordinary people around the world. His message of non-violence and peaceful coexistence has inspired countless individuals to stand up against injustice and to fight for a better world.
As the years pass, the memory of Gandhi may fade, and his teachings may be forgotten. But as long as there are people who are willing to stand up against injustice and to fight for a better world, his legacy will live on. For Gandhi, the struggle for social justice and peace was not just a political or social cause; it was a way of life, a philosophy, and a religion. And it is this legacy that will continue to inspire and guide generations of people around the world.
Some scenes from the movie Gandhi written by A.I.
Scene 1
FADE IN:
EXT. PORBANDAR, INDIA – DAY
A bustling Indian marketplace fills the screen. People crowd the streets, buying and selling goods. Among them is MOHANDAS KARAMCHAND GANDHI (30s), dressed in a Western suit, observing the scene with a critical eye.
CUT TO:
INT. GANDHI’S FAMILY HOME – DAY
Gandhi enters the dimly lit home, where his wife KASTURBA (30s) is preparing food. Gandhi looks troubled.
GANDHI:
I can no longer sit idly by. We have to fight back against the British Empire’s oppression.
KASTURBA:
But how? We are just poor Indians.
GANDHI:
We may be poor, but we have our self-respect. And that’s something that can’t be taken away from us.
CUT TO:
EXT. INDIAN TRAIN STATION – DAY
Gandhi arrives at the train station, where he is met by a friend, GOKHALE (40s). They board the train together.
GOKHALE:
You have changed since your time in South Africa. You are more determined.
GANDHI:
Yes. The injustices I saw there made me realise that the British Empire’s discrimination is not limited to South Africa.
CUT TO:
EXT. INDIAN LAW OFFICE – DAY
Gandhi enters his law office, where he is met by his colleague, PRANJIVAN MEHTA (30s).
MEHTA:
Gandhi, have you heard? The British authorities have arrested Indian nationalists.
GANDHI:
That’s why we have to fight for our rights. We must stand up to them and show that we will not be cowed by their threats.
FADE OUT.
Scene 2
EXT. SALT MARCH ROUTE – DAY
Gandhi, dressed in his simple white dhoti, marches with a group of followers along the dusty road. The group is composed of men and women of all ages, some carrying children on their backs.
GANDHI: (raising his hand to signal the group to stop) Friends, we have walked a long way. But our journey is only beginning. Today, we will take a stand against the unjust salt tax imposed on us by the British.
FOLLOWER 1: But how are we going to do that, Bapu?
GANDHI: (smiling) By making our own salt, brother.
The group cheers, and they proceed to the beach. They arrive at the sea, where they scoop up the salty water using their bare hands and boil it in large pots.
As the water evaporates, the salt crystallizes, and the marchers collect it in small bags. Suddenly, a group of British soldiers approaches.
BRITISH OFFICER: (pointing his rifle at Gandhi) Stop this at once! You are breaking the law!
GANDHI: (calmly standing his ground) We are not breaking any laws. We are simply making our own salt, which is our birthright.
The British officer hesitates, conflicted between his duty and his conscience. Finally, he lowers his rifle and steps aside. The crowd erupts in jubilation.
FOLLOWER 2: (overjoyed) We did it, Bapu! We made our own salt!
GANDHI: (smiling) Yes, my friend. And this is just the beginning. Together, we will achieve independence for our beloved India.
The marchers continue their journey, their spirits lifted by their small victory. The camera pans out as they disappear into the horizon, leaving only their footprints in the sand.
Scene 3
Genre: Drama, Historical
Logline: In the early 20th century, Mohandas K. Gandhi leads a non-violent revolution against British colonial rule in India, inspiring millions to join his cause and leading his people towards independence.
INT. PRISON CELL – DAY
A gaunt and frail Gandhi sits on a mat, his eyes closed in meditation. The door to his cell opens, and a guard enters.
GUARD
Gandhi, it’s time for your meal.
Gandhi stirs and opens his eyes. He looks up at the guard, his face serene.
GANDHI
I will not eat, as I am on a hunger strike.
The guard looks surprised and concerned.
GUARD
But sir, you must eat to stay alive.
GANDHI
I am willing to die for my beliefs. I will not back down until the British government addresses the inhumane conditions of political prisoners.
The guard nods, then exits the cell. As the door closes, Gandhi sits back down on his mat and continues his meditation.
INT. PRISON YARD – DAY
A group of prisoners, including a few political dissidents, are sitting on the ground, eating their meagre meals. In the corner of the yard, Gandhi’s followers are gathered, holding posters and chanting slogans in support of their leader.
Suddenly, the chanting stops as they notice a commotion near the entrance to the yard. They rush over and see that Gandhi has collapsed and is being carried on a stretcher.
GANDHI’S FOLLOWER
What happened?
GUARD
Gandhi has been on a hunger strike for several days now. He needs medical attention.
The followers look worried as Gandhi is carried away. They continue to chant and hold their posters, but the mood is subdued.
INT. HOSPITAL ROOM – DAY
Gandhi is lying on a bed, hooked up to a saline drip. He looks weak but determined.
DOCTOR
Mr Gandhi, you need to start eating again. Your body cannot sustain itself on just water.
GANDHI
I appreciate your concern, doctor, but my hunger strike is a non-violent form of protest. I must continue until the British government addresses our demands.
The doctor looks skeptical but nods and leaves. Gandhi closes his eyes and begins to meditate again.
As the door closes, we see a British officer standing outside, overhearing the conversation. He looks worried, knowing that the hunger strike is gaining momentum and could lead to further civil unrest.
FADE OUT.
Scene 4
FADE IN:
EXT. LONDON STREETS – DAY
Gandhi walks down a bustling street, surrounded by the clamor of London life. He wears a simple white robe, and his sandals pat the pavement as he walks.
INT. GOVERNMENT OFFICE – DAY
Gandhi sits across from a group of British officials. They wear stiff suits and stern expressions.
BRITISH OFFICIAL
Mr. Gandhi, we are here to discuss the future of India.
GANDHI
(smiling)
Ah, yes. I believe a peaceful solution is possible.
BRITISH OFFICIAL 2
But your demands are simply not reasonable.
GANDHI
Reasonable? Asking for the freedom of one’s people is not reasonable?
BRITISH OFFICIAL
We cannot simply hand over our colony to a group of people who are not ready to govern themselves.
GANDHI
Is it not time for India to take control of her own destiny?
BRITISH OFFICIAL 2
The British Empire has brought prosperity and progress to India. We cannot simply abandon her.
GANDHI
Do you call poverty and oppression prosperity? Progress at the cost of human dignity?
The officials remain silent, considering Gandhi’s words.
BRITISH OFFICIAL
We will consider your proposal, Mr. Gandhi. But do not expect any quick solutions.
Gandhi nods, his eyes holding a glimmer of hope.
GANDHI
I believe in the power of peaceful negotiation.
FADE OUT.
Scene 5
Characters:
1. Mohandas K. Gandhi – a British-trained lawyer who leads the Indian independence movement.
2. Jinnah – a Muslim leader who argues for a separate homeland for Muslims in India.
3. Nehru – a secular leader who believes in a united India.
4. Mountbatten – the last British viceroy of India.
Setting: India, 1947.
Dialogue:
INT. GOVERNMENT BUILDING – DAY
Gandhi, Jinnah, and Nehru sit in a conference room, discussing the future of India as Mountbatten enters.
MOUNTBATTEN: Gentlemen, we have reached a decision.
GANDHI: And what decision is that, Lord Mountbatten?
MOUNTBATTEN: India will be granted independence on August 15th of this year.
JINNAH: (displeased) And what of the Muslim population?
NEHRU: (defensive) We have always maintained that a united India is the best option.
JINNAH: (firmly) But the Muslim population needs a separate homeland.
GANDHI: (calmly) Brother Jinnah, can we not find a way to coexist peacefully within a united India?
JINNAH: (doubtful) I fear the Hindus will have the upper hand.
NEHRU: (pleading) But a divided India will only lead to more violence and bloodshed.
MOUNTBATTEN: (decisive) Gentlemen, the decision has been made. We shall have two nations: India and Pakistan.
The room falls silent.
INT. GANDHI’S ROOM – NIGHT
Gandhi sits at his desk, writing in his diary. He looks troubled.
GANDHI (voiceover): I had hoped for a united India, where Hindus and Muslims could live together in peace. But the decision to partition the land has only led to more violence and hatred.
Suddenly, there is a knock on the door.
GANDHI: (calls out) Who is it?
NEHRU: (from outside) It’s me, Bapu.
Gandhi gets up and opens the door.
NEHRU: (concerned) Are you alright, Bapu?
GANDHI: (sighs) I fear for the future of our nation. The partition will only lead to more bloodshed.
NEHRU: (reassuringly) We will make it work, Bapu. We will find a way to unite our people.
GANDHI: (smiles sadly) I hope you are right, Jawaharlal.
NEHRU: (firmly) I am. And we will make India a great nation, just as you have always dreamed.
Gandhi nods and returns to his desk.
GANDHI (voiceover): I can only hope that one day, my vision of a united India will become a reality. Until then, I will continue to fight for the freedom and rights of all Indians, regardless of their religion or background.
The scene ends with Gandhi closing his diary and looking out the window, lost in thought.
Scene 6
Characters:
– Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi (lead role)
– Nathuram Godse (antagonist)
Setting: India, 30th January 1948
Scene 6: The Assassination
INT. Birla House – Prayer Room
Gandhi is seated on the floor, surrounded by his followers, as they chant prayers. Suddenly, Nathuram Godse, a fanatic, enters the room and pulls out a gun.
Gandhi (calmly): What is it that you want, my son?
Godse (angrily): I want to know why you betrayed our people. Your policies of non-violence and peaceful coexistence have made us weak.
Gandhi (still calm): My policies were based on the belief that violence begets violence. Only through love and compassion can we achieve true freedom.
Godse (shouting): You are a traitor to our nation!
Godse aims his gun at Gandhi and pulls the trigger. The room falls silent as Gandhi falls to the ground.
Gandhi (whispering): Hey Ram (Oh God)
The followers rush to his aid, but it’s too late. Gandhi has been assassinated.
EXT. Birla House – Street
As the news of Gandhi’s death spreads, people gather on the streets in mourning. The country is thrown into chaos as riots and violence erupt.
INT. Jail Cell – Nathuram Godse
Godse is arrested and sent to jail for his crime. As he sits in his cell, he reflects on his actions and the legacy of Gandhi. He realizes that his actions were misguided and that Gandhi was a true hero who fought for freedom and equality for all.
FADE OUT.
