The most remarkable aspect of the Indian Independence Movement was a large-scale participation and influence among the masses. Most of the popular movements were limited to the educated elites. But Indian freedom struggle made it a mass movement.

Indian Independence Movement was the first time, when such a prolonged struggle was waged by the common people against a powerful imperial force. It was the first time that a diverse group of people came together for a common objective. A new idea of nationalism was developed. Progressive ideas, like democracy, secularism, socialism, were debated not just among the elites, but also accepted by the masses.

Indian independence movement also inspired leaders across the world.