**Gandhi Jayanti: All You Need to Know**

### **Gandhi Jayanti: All You Need to Know**

#### **Day, Date, and Time**

- **Day**: Gandhi Jayanti is observed every year on **October 2nd**.

- **Date**: October 2nd marks the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, who was born in **1869**.

- **Time**: It is celebrated throughout the day with various events and observances, starting early in the morning with prayer services.

#### **History**

- **Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi**, fondly known as Mahatma Gandhi, was a key figure in India's independence movement. Born in Porbandar, Gujarat, Gandhi pursued law in London and became a political leader in India, spearheading peaceful protests against British colonial rule.

- He led campaigns such as the **Non-Cooperation Movement**, the **Salt March** (Dandi March), and the **Quit India Movement**, all centered on non-violence (ahimsa) and civil disobedience (Satyagraha).

- His birthday, **October 2nd**, is celebrated as a tribute to his immense contributions to Indian independence and the principles of non-violence.

#### **Facts About Gandhi Jayanti**

- **International Day of Non-Violence**: In 2007, the **United Nations** declared October 2nd as the **International Day of Non-Violence**, aligning with Gandhi's philosophy of peaceful resistance.

- **Raj Ghat**: Gandhi's memorial in **New Delhi** sees a special observance on this day, with political leaders and citizens paying homage to his legacy.

- **Public Holiday**: Gandhi Jayanti is a **national holiday** in India, with schools, government offices, and businesses closed in his honor.

- **Symbol of Peace**: The day is often marked by various activities promoting peace, unity, and Gandhi’s teachings of non-violence.

#### **Timeline**

- **1869**: Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi was born on October 2nd in Porbandar, Gujarat.

- **1915**: Gandhi returned to India after spending time in South Africa, where he developed his ideas on non-violent resistance.

- **1920s-1940s**: Gandhi led several key movements, including the Non-Cooperation and Quit India Movements.

- **1947**: India gained independence, partly due to Gandhi's leadership.

- **1948**: Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated on January 30th, 1948.

- **2007**: The UN declared Gandhi Jayanti as the International Day of Non-Violence.

#### **Significance**

- Gandhi Jayanti celebrates the values of **truth**, **non-violence**, **peace**, and **tolerance** that Gandhi upheld. It serves as a reminder to follow these principles in day-to-day life and highlights the importance of resolving conflicts through peaceful means.

- The day emphasizes the relevance of non-violence in the modern world, where conflicts and wars still persist.

#### **Important Points and Facts**

1. **Non-Violence**: Gandhi’s method of **Satyagraha** focused on fighting oppression without violence.

2. **Truth**: Gandhi believed in the power of **truth (Satya)**, and it was at the core of his personal and political philosophy.

3. **Simplicity**: Gandhi's life was a testament to simple living and high thinking, focusing on self-reliance and minimalism.

4. **Legacy**: Gandhi inspired not only Indians but also world leaders like **Nelson Mandela** and **Martin Luther King Jr.** with his peaceful methods of protest.

5. **Cultural Programs**: Schools, colleges, and organizations host cultural programs, skits, debates, and speeches on Gandhi's life and values.

#### **Wishing on Gandhi Jayanti**

- **To Society**: The wishes extend to promoting peace, love, and unity in communities, following Gandhi’s ideals. The day encourages people to contribute positively to society and reflect on the power of non-violence in building a better future.

- **Common Wishes**:

- "Let’s remember the Mahatma and follow his path of truth and non-violence. Happy Gandhi Jayanti!"

- "On this Gandhi Jayanti, may we all take a pledge to work towards peace and tolerance in the world."

- "Let’s honor the man who taught us that peace is the most powerful weapon. Happy Gandhi Jayanti!"

#### **Observance**

- **Prayers and Tributes**: Special prayers are held at **Raj Ghat**, New Delhi, where Gandhi’s samadhi (memorial) is located. Dignitaries from the government and public offer floral tributes.

- **Non-Violence Activities**: Public speeches and seminars discuss the relevance of Gandhi’s teachings in the modern era.

- **Educational Initiatives**: Schools and colleges organize quizzes, debates, and plays on Gandhi’s life, philosophy, and the importance of non-violence.

#### **FAQs**

1. **Why do we celebrate Gandhi Jayanti?**

- It is celebrated to honor the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi, who led India to independence through non-violent means and left a lasting impact on global peace movements.

2. **What are some key movements Gandhi led?**

- Some of the significant movements include the **Non-Cooperation Movement** (1920), **Salt March** (1930), and the **Quit India Movement** (1942).

3. **Why is Gandhi known as the Father of the Nation?**

- Gandhi is called the Father of the Nation due to his pivotal role in leading India to independence and inspiring the people of India with his moral leadership.

4. **What are the main ideals of Gandhi?**

- Gandhi promoted **truth (Satya)**, **non-violence (Ahimsa)**, **self-reliance**, and **equality**.

5. **How is Gandhi Jayanti celebrated?**

- The day is marked by prayer services, peace walks, cultural programs, and discussions on the teachings of Gandhi, alongside tributes at his memorials.

#### **Wishing Society on Gandhi Jayanti**

- The day is seen as a time to remind society of the need for peace, non-violence, and compassion. It is also an opportunity to promote social justice, equality, and human rights, values that Gandhi spent his life advocating for.

#### **Significance to the World**

- Gandhi’s teachings of **non-violence** have had a global impact, influencing movements for civil rights and freedom across the world. His life and principles remain a beacon of hope and a model for peaceful protest and resistance.