Mahatma: The Great Soul

Duration: 2000

Year Published: 1963

Creator: Oddball Reel

Complete Record: Opening sequence CU Gandhi. Documentary following the history of Indian independence focusing on the life of Mahatma Gandhi. Narrator introducing Gandhi and some history, quotes, political critique and his life’s work, three battles.--- scenic shots over narration, possibly Gandhi as a voice over, rivers boats elephants, bathing in the Ganges, praying in different faiths (Muslim), Vishnu on a chariot, parade, self inflicted abuse for religion, classrooms/educating children. Wisdom came from the east, montage of iconic shots of the Taj Mahal. Introduction of the British and violent conflict and invasion, painted montage, dramatic music. scene of procession of King George the 5th and Queen Mary. They sit on a throne. British society invades India. Narrator: facts about Indian social structure caste system, narration over shots of different levels of Indian society, untouchables shown. Pictures of Gandhi ‘s early years, brief biography, life in the army, law school, parents, family... returns to India with new ideals (pacifism). spreading the word to his people. Gandhi talks about the significance of the spinning wheel. As well as cottons importance to India as an industry. Gandhi and the salt walk, Gandhi leads the people to the sea to make their own salt. Fade out/back to narrator, talking about the significance of the salt walk, and how doing so, Gandhi inspired people, fade out. Gandhi begins a long and arduous strife with the occupational British Scenes of protesting and crowd control and related injuries, people being taken to the central prison. Shots of prisoners and abuse by guards. Protesters practice pacifism. Shots of Gandhi fasting emaciated, skinny, during interview. Gandhi travels to meet the masses, Gandhi in a car, out a window, visiting England/different countries, traveling by car, train, ship, boat, talking to different kinds of people. Returns to India, Chicago telephone radio broadcast in Bombay, Many Indians gathered to hear Gandhi’s speech. Declares perpetual fast until death after given ultimatum from British. fast against outside rule, internal conflict between Indians. Back to narrator: Talks about Gandhi’s decision to fast and how he became known as Mahatma the Great Soul and a kind of god. Scenes of influential British people flying in to meet with Gandhi. Many people making speeches and issuing documents to civilians of India British man makes important announcement of independence and there are many parades and celebrations. The new Indian flag is raised and Indians are independent. Parades of camels and bagpipes. Pakistan flag and more parades. Scenes of destruction and dead people Kicking out the Muslims from India and Gandhi is killed. Narrator makes final remarks about Gandhi. Montage of Gandhi’s possessions and belongings. Scene of library containing his books. Funeral procession and massive crowds gathered. Body is burned. Ashes are sifted and taken by train to river. Flowers in river and sunset.