Gandhi Jayanti 2024: Gandhi Jayanti, celebrated on the 2nd of October every year, is one of the most significant events in India. It commemorates the birthday of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, a revered activist-lawyer who played a pivotal role in India's struggle to end British colonial rule. Fondly known as the 'Father of the Nation' or Bapu Ji, Gandhi was born on October 2, 1869.
Gandhi Jayanti holds immense historical and global importance. In recognition of Gandhi's contributions to non-violence and his efforts to bring about social and political change, the United Nations declared October 2 as the 'International Day of Non-Violence' in 2007.
Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi was born in Porbandar, Gujarat, and pursued a legal education at the Inner Temple in London. His journey as a lawyer took him to South Africa, where he witnessed the mistreatment of Indian peasants and initiated the nonviolent Civil Disobedience Movement against African officials.
Upon returning to India in 1915, Gandhi observed the oppressive British policies, including heavy taxes on Indian workers. This led him to protest against British rule and eventually assume leadership of the Indian National Congress in 1921, where he spearheaded multiple campaigns for India's self-rule or 'Swaraj.'
Throughout the struggle against British rule, Gandhi's core principles were Ahimsa (non-violence) and Satyavad (truthfulness). In 1930, he famously led the 400-km Dandi Salt March to challenge the salt tax. Subsequently, he initiated the Quit India Movement in 1942, demanding an end to British rule.
Gandhi's unwavering dedication eventually led to the departure of the British rulers. In 1947, the last Viceroy of pre-independent India, Lord Mountbatten, declared India a sovereign nation, and the country was divided into India and Pakistan. Since then, Gandhi's birthday has been celebrated as a National Festival in India.
The International Day of Non-Violence, observed on October 2, commemorates Mahatma Gandhi's birthday and honors his leadership in the Indian independence movement. This day serves as a global reminder of the power of non-violence in achieving social and political change and emphasizes peaceful resistance as a means to resolve conflicts and promote justice worldwide. The United Nations officially declared this day in 2007.
Celebrations of the International Day of Non-Violence vary from country to country. In India, the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, events include prayer meetings, seminars, lectures, and cultural programs that promote Gandhi's teachings of non-violence and peace. The United States, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and many other countries also observe this day with activities focusing on non-violence, peace education, and conflict resolution.
A National Holiday: Gandhi Jayanti is a national holiday in India, observed on October 2nd each year. On this day, India pays tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, celebrating his legacy and promoting his ideals of non-violence, truth, and civil disobedience. Government offices, schools, and many businesses are typically closed to honor this remarkable leader.
Born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, India, Mahatma Gandhi emerged as a prominent leader in the Indian independence movement against British colonial rule. After studying law in London and working as a lawyer in South Africa, he became deeply committed to fighting for civil rights and justice due to his firsthand experiences with racial discrimination.
Upon returning to India in 1915, Gandhi became a central figure in the Indian National Congress, advocating for India's independence. He championed nonviolent civil disobedience, which he called "Satyagraha" or the force of truth, as the primary tool for social and political change.
Gandhi's life was marked by numerous movements and campaigns, including the Salt March and the Quit India Movement. He emphasized principles such as self-reliance, simplicity, and non-violence as essential in achieving social and political reform.
Nonviolent Resistance: Gandhi's philosophy of nonviolent resistance and civil disobedience inspired movements worldwide, including the American civil rights movement led by Martin Luther King Jr.
Advocacy for Human Rights: Gandhi tirelessly advocated for racial equality, social justice, and religious tolerance, fighting against discrimination and oppression.
Simplicity and Self-Sufficiency: Gandhi's simple lifestyle and emphasis on minimalism resonated with many people, serving as a model for sustainable living.
Global Influence: Gandhi's ideas continue to influence movements and leaders worldwide, with his principles of nonviolence, peaceful resistance, and social justice remaining relevant in contemporary struggles for justice and equality.
Mahatma Gandhi played a pivotal role in India's struggle for freedom:
Nonviolent Resistance (Satyagraha): Gandhi advocated and practiced nonviolence as a powerful means to achieve social and political change. His Salt March in 1930 is a prime example of his nonviolent approach.
Civil Disobedience: Gandhi encouraged civil disobedience acts such as boycotts, protests, and non-cooperation with British authorities to disrupt British governance.
Mass Mobilization: Gandhi's ability to mobilize the masses brought millions of Indians into the freedom struggle, making it a mass movement.
Negotiations with the British: Gandhi engaged in negotiations with British officials to secure India's independence, representing the Indian National Congress.
Quit India Movement: In 1942, he launched the Quit India Movement, demanding an immediate end to British rule, marking a turning point in the struggle for independence.
Role in the Constitution: While not directly involved in drafting India's Constitution, Gandhi's ideas on social justice, decentralization, and nonviolence influenced its formation.
Gandhi Jayanti is celebrated with great enthusiasm throughout India. Educational institutions, including schools, colleges, and universities, hold special assemblies to honor Gandhi's ideologies and teachings. Tri-colored flags are hoisted across the nation, and patriotic events are organized at prominent public places.
Gandhi's favorite bhajan, 'Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram,' is played at prayer meetings held in his memory, and idols of Mahatma Gandhi are adorned with flowers.
Gandhi Jayanti is not just a celebration of Mahatma Gandhi's birth but also a tribute to his lasting legacy of non-violence, truth, and social justice. His contributions to India's independence and his philosophies continue to inspire people globally. By commemorating Gandhi Jayanti, we not only honor the Father of the Nation but also reflect on the values he embodied, which remain relevant in the present day. Whether through peaceful resistance or social reform, Gandhi's teachings provide timeless solutions to the challenges we face as a society.
Why is Gandhi Jayanti celebrated?
Gandhi Jayanti is celebrated to honor the birth of Mahatma Gandhi and to remember his contributions to India's independence, as well as his principles of non-violence and truth.
What is the significance of October 2 being declared the International Day of Non-Violence?
October 2 was declared the International Day of Non-Violence by the United Nations in 2007 to recognize Gandhi’s role in advocating non-violent methods for political and social change, making his message relevant worldwide.
How is Gandhi Jayanti celebrated across India?
Gandhi Jayanti is marked by prayer meetings, patriotic events, and cultural programs in schools, colleges, and public places. Mahatma Gandhi's favorite hymn, 'Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram,' is often sung, and people reflect on his teachings of peace and non-violence.
