The commemoration of the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the ‘Father of the Nation’, is observed on October 2 and is known as Gandhi Jayanti. This year marks the 154th birth anniversary of the freedom fighter who was born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, Gujarat. Along with other renowned leaders, Gandhi led India’s freedom struggle.
As a mark of respect to the leader, the day is observed as a national holiday and celebrated with various events, including prayer services and cultural events in educational and government institutions.
On this day, political leaders pay homage at Raj Ghat, the samadhi of Mahatma Gandhi in New Delhi. Additionally, his favourite songs, ‘Raghupati Raghava’ and ‘Vaishnav Jan To Tene Kahiye’, are sung in various events as a tribute to the leader.
In recognition of his contributions to non-violent resistance, the United Nations declared October 2 as the ‘International Day of Non-Violence’ on June 15, 2007.
Affectionately referred to as Bapu Ji, Mahatma Gandhi attained his degree in London before embarking on a journey to South Africa to practice law. It was during his time there that he witnessed the deplorable mistreatment inflicted upon numerous Indian peasants. In response, Gandhi initiated the nonviolent Civil Disobedience Movement against the African authorities. Upon his return to India in 1915, he was confronted with the oppressive conditions imposed upon Indian peasants by the British Government, prompting him to commence his protests against such injustices.
In the year 1921, Mahatma Gandhi assumed the leadership of the Indian National Congress, marking a significant turning point in the political landscape of India. Subsequently, he spearheaded numerous campaigns aimed at achieving ‘Swaraj’, which denoted the attainment of self-rule for the Indian populace, employing the principles of non-violence or Ahimsa.
One notable instance of his leadership was the Dandi Salt March, a momentous event spanning a distance of 400 kilometers, undertaken with the objective of abolishing the salt tax. Furthermore, his unwavering commitment to the cause of Indian independence was exemplified by his pivotal role in the Quit India Movement of 1942, which vehemently opposed British rule. These persistent endeavors ultimately culminated in India’s emergence as a sovereign nation, a historic milestone that was officially declared through Lord Mountbatten’s proclamation of Partition.
He was assassinated on January 30, 1948
In the year 1921, Mahatma Gandhi assumed leadership of the Indian National Congress, marking a significant turning point in India’s political landscape. He subsequently spearheaded numerous campaigns aimed at achieving ‘Swaraj’, which denoted the attainment of self-rule for the Indian populace, employing the principles of non-violence or Ahimsa.
One notable instance of his leadership was the Dandi Salt March, a momentous event spanning a distance of 400 kilometers, undertaken with the objective of abolishing the salt tax. Furthermore, his unwavering commitment to the cause of Indian independence was exemplified by his pivotal role in the Quit India Movement of 1942, which vehemently opposed British rule. These persistent endeavors ultimately culminated in India’s emergence as a sovereign nation, a historic milestone that was officially declared through Lord Mountbatten’s proclamation of Partition.
Regrettably, Mahatma Gandhi’s life was cut short by an act of assassination on January 30, 1948, leaving an indelible mark on the annals of history.