The correct answer is option 2: South Africa. In the early stages of his life, Mahatma Gandhi practiced and developed the principles of Satyagraha (nonviolent resistance) while living in South Africa. In 1893, Gandhi, a young lawyer, moved to South Africa to work for an Indian businessman. During his time in South Africa, Gandhi experienced firsthand the discrimination and injustices faced by the Indian community. This inspired him to fight for their rights and to challenge the oppressive practices of the British colonial authorities.

Gandhi`s first act of Satyagraha in South Africa was against the restrictive laws imposed on the Indian community. He initiated campaigns and protests, advocating for equal rights and nonviolent resistance. Through his efforts, Gandhi successfully mobilized the Indian community and gained international recognition for the concept of Satyagraha.

It was in South Africa that Gandhi laid the foundation for his future work in India as a prominent leader of the Indian independence movement. The principles and strategies of Satyagraha that Gandhi developed in South Africa would later become pivotal in India`s struggle for independence from British rule.