Gandhi Jayanti is celebrated on the birthday of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, one of the most famous freedom fighters of India. Also known as Bapu (meaning father in Gujarati), Mahatma Gandhi was born on October 2, 1869 in Porbandar in the state of Gujarat.
Gandhi Ji got the apt prefix to his name ‘Mahatma’, from one of the greatest Indian poets, Rabindranath Tagore, Mahatma literally translates to “Great Soul”, Maha means great and Atma means soul in Sanskrit. However, Gandhi, one of the most humble and modest person, in his biography, admits he did not find himself worthy of the title and was often pained and upset by it.
Gandhi Ji was the epitome of peace, non-violence, truth and duty. He practiced everything he preached, the common people appreciated his beliefs and ideals during the struggle for independence, and by the end of it Gandhi Ji had the whole nation following in his footsteps, adopting his beliefs as theirs and spreading his words all through the nation. This love, respect and faith he got from the people of his country even got him the title “Father of the Nation”. Till today this title exclusively sticks to him for if it wasn’t for his pure values and methods, India would not have gained her freedom from the British rule when she did.
It is because of his contribution, his values, his methods, his dedication and love for his country that India celebrates the birthday of one of the greatest people in the history of India, Mahatma Gandhi on 2 October, every year as Gandhi Jayanti. It is one of the Three National Holidays’ of India, the other two being Republic Day on 26 January and Independence Day on 15 August.
The United Nations General Assembly declared Mahatma Gandhi’s birth date, October 2 as the International Day of Non-Violence in the year 2007.
Mahatma Gandhi – Birth and Life
Mahatma Gandhi, born Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, India, was a pivotal figure in India's struggle for independence from British rule. His early life saw him trained as a lawyer in London, but he later developed a strong sense of social justice and civil disobedience principles, which he applied during his time in South Africa and later in India.
Gandhi became a prominent leader in the Indian independence movement, advocating for non-violent civil disobedience as a means to achieve political and social change. His philosophy of Satyagraha (truth-force) became a guiding principle for many independence movements around the world.
He led several campaigns and protests against British rule, including the Salt March in 1930, where he and thousands of Indians marched to the Arabian Sea to protest against the British monopoly on salt production. His efforts, along with those of other leaders and activists, eventually led to India gaining independence in 1947.
Gandhi's commitment to non-violence, simple living, and communal harmony left a lasting legacy not only in India but globally, influencing movements for civil rights and freedom across the world. He was tragically assassinated on January 30, 1948, but his teachings and ideals continue to inspire generations of leaders and activists worldwide.
Gandhi’s Struggle and Movements for Freedom
Mahatma Gandhi's struggle for freedom was characterized by his steadfast commitment to non-violence, civil disobedience, and his deep-rooted belief in truth and justice. Here are some key movements and events in his journey towards India's independence:
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South Africa: Gandhi's activism began in South Africa, where he lived from 1893 to 1914. He fought against racial discrimination faced by Indians through non-violent protests and civil disobedience campaigns. His experiences in South Africa shaped his philosophy of Satyagraha (truth-force) and Ahimsa (non-violence), which would later become central to his efforts in India.
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Champaran and Kheda: After returning to India in 1915, Gandhi launched his first major campaigns in Champaran (1917) and Kheda (1918). In Champaran, he led protests against oppressive indigo plantation practices, advocating for the rights of peasants. In Kheda, he supported farmers struggling against high taxation during a period of famine.
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Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922): This nationwide movement aimed to challenge British authority through non-violent resistance. Gandhi called for Indians to boycott British goods, institutions, and titles, urging self-reliance and promoting Indian culture. Though suspended in 1922 due to violent incidents, it significantly raised national consciousness.
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Salt March (1930): One of Gandhi's most iconic protests, the Salt March aimed to challenge British salt taxes. Gandhi and his followers walked 240 miles to the Arabian Sea, where he symbolically made salt from seawater, defying British laws. This act sparked nationwide civil disobedience, marking a turning point in the struggle for independence.
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Quit India Movement (1942): Gandhi launched the Quit India Movement, demanding an end to British rule in India. Despite being arrested along with other leaders, the movement galvanized mass protests and strikes across the country, ultimately hastening India's independence.
Throughout his life, Gandhi emphasized the power of non-violence and unity among diverse communities. His strategies and principles inspired similar movements for freedom and civil rights worldwide, making him a towering figure in the history of peaceful resistance and social change.
Read more on Gandhi’s Freedom Struggle for IndiaAssassination of Mahatma Gandhi
Mahatma Gandhi, the leader of India's independence movement, was assassinated on January 30, 1948, in New Delhi. He was shot by Nathuram Godse, a Hindu nationalist who opposed Gandhi's philosophy of nonviolence and his efforts to foster peace and Hindu-Muslim unity. Gandhi's assassination was a tragic event that deeply affected India and the world, marking a significant moment in history.Click here to read the original copy of the FIR lodged after the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi.
Gandhi’s death was mourned nation wide and 30th January is observed as Martyr’s Day in India and as School-day of Non-Violence and Peace in the schools of many countries. Read the whole story of Gandhi s Assassination
Celebrating Gandhi Jayanti
Gandhi Jayanti, celebrated on October 2nd every year, marks the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. It is observed across India and in various parts of the world to honor his contributions to India's independence movement and his philosophy of nonviolence (ahimsa). On this day, people pay tribute to Gandhi by organizing prayer services, communal gatherings, and events that emphasize his ideals of truth, simplicity, and social harmony. It's also a day for reflection on his teachings and their relevance to contemporary issues.Complete Lyrics for Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram
Remember Gandhi Ji with an SMS
Remembering the Father of the Nation is the least all Indians can do this Gandhi Jayanti. We bring to you an exclusive set of Texts and SMS on Gandhi Jayanti and Mahatma GandhiFamous Quotes by Mahatma Gandhi
We have listed down some of the most famous and wonderful quotes and saying by Mahatma Gandhi on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti – Read the Best Mahatma Gandhi Quotes by Clicking Here
Know more & pay tribute
महात्मा गांधी जयंती के बारे में हिंदी में पढ़ने के लिये क्लिक करें