The movie charts Gandhi's rise from obscurity to the elevated position of a lasting symbol of peace and understanding throughout the world.

The film won a total of eight academy awards, including best actor and best director. In a big year for great films, Gandhi beat off competition from the movie E.T for best film category.

The film follows Gandhi as he sets of to South Africa in 1893. Here, he struggled to persuade the government to change its discrimination laws against Asians. The humble leader developed a novel form of non-violent protest, which was to become an inspiration for all future generations.

On returning to his native India, Gandhi battled to free the country from the British Colonial government. After a long struggle, he finally succeeded in 1947.

After his assassination, by a Hindu extremist in 1948, Gandhi's death was mourned the world over. In the film, over 300,000 extras were employed to recreate these scenes.

The superb cast, including Geraldine James and Martin Sheen, are painted on to the broad and beautiful canvas of India. The cinematography is also outstanding and has helped to create a screen classic.