Although he was a staunch Hindu, Mahatma Gandhi, friend to both Muslims and Christians, developed a community of followers based on the principles of nonviolence and mutual aid. This community would eventually revolve around the spiritual principle of satyagraha, which means "truth force."
Gandhi believed in taking action through nonviolent means, such as through civil disobedience and setting a righteous example through resistance of oppression. His focus throughout his life was on practical action. Up until his death in 1948, Gandhi worked to resolve civil conflicts between the British ruling class in India and the Muslims and Hindus. Gandhi felt that his life was his message.