He was a leader of millions, but had no employees, no direct reports, no staffer nor any hired help. But he led a nation through a peaceful revolution - Mohandas “Mahatma” K. Gandhi.
He was the pioneer of Satyagraha, mass resistance to government oppression through peaceful, non-violent civil disobedience and non-cooperation. His leadership led to India’s independence from colonial British rule in 1947. But within six months of India’s independence, he would be dead.
Gandhi’s live principles included simplicity, faith, nonviolence, truth, being a vegetarian, and Brahmacharya - self realization and actualization through spiritual and physical purity (celibacy).
As a man of non-violence, two of his most famous quotes include “An eye for an eye makes the whole world blind” and “There are many causes that I am prepared to die for, but no causes that I am prepared to kill for.”
As a British-educated attorney, Gandhi used this new form of peaceful civil disobedience first while helping Indians living in British-ruled South Africa, as they fought for civil rights.
While living there for 9 years, he faced racial discrimination, including being thrown off a train for refusing to give up his 1st Class seat. He completed his journey by stagecoach, but was beaten by the driver for again not giving up his seat, this time to a white passenger. Similar to blacks in the post-Civil War south, he was also refused rooms at all white hotels.
The injustices, racism and prejudices he endured, caused him to look at his homeland, India and question India’s status in society versus the ruling British colonists.
He led India’s struggle for freedom and is considered one of history’s most influential leaders and civil rights activists.
The Mahatma Gandhi Memorial sits across from the the Embassy of India. Like the man is symbolizes, it is humble and low-key.
Mahatma Gandhi Memorial
Q St. and Massachusetts Ave. between 21st and 22nd Streets, NW
Washington, DC
Dates and Times - The small park where the statute is located is open 24 hours daily.
Admission - Free
Nearest Metro Subway Station - Dupont Circle, Red line, then a 2-block walk.
Parking - metered street parking is available.