Gandhi Jayanti, celebrated annually on October 2nd, holds deep significance in India and across the globe. It honors Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, also referred to as the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, or Bapu, on his 154th birthday. This day honors the life and principles of a man who gave his all to the Indian freedom movement and left a lasting impression on the world by adhering to the truth and refraining from violence. One of the most important people of the 20th century during the fight for independent India was born on October 2, 1869, in the little Gujarati town of Porbandar.
A man of great greatness and simplicity, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, who is famously known as the Mahatma, is one whose ideas and actions shaped this world. His beliefs in truth, and nonviolence, and The Indian government established the Gandhi Peace Prize in 1995 to honor Mahatma Gandhi’s commitment to nonviolence and his actions against political, social, and economic inequalities. Civil disobedience has influenced many movements and individuals as well as the oppressed people. CBSE and RBSE Universe Public School will celebrate Gandhi Jayanti with great enthusiasm and reverence, honoring the legacy of the father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi.
At a special assembly to start the day, students will perform skits that highlight the life and teachings of Gandhiji and recite some of his favorite bhajans. The event aims to instill the values of truth, non-violence, and simplicity in students, reflecting Gandhi’s principles. Also, a Swachh Bharat Abhiyan-inspired cleanliness push will be held to motivate students to help maintain a cleaner environment.
Significant Events and Initiatives
On Gandhi Jayanti, the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, Indian society celebrates with great fervor. The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, honors Gandhi by visiting Raj Ghat in New Delhi. Seminars, exhibitions, and cultural events all contribute to the promotion of motivation and comprehension.
- International Day of Non-Violence: The International Day of Non-Violence was declared on June 2, 2007, by the UN General Assembly as a way to commemorate Gandhi’s audacious strategies for societal change.
- The Gandhi Peace Prize: The Indian government established the Gandhi Peace Prize in 1995 to honor Mahatma Gandhi’s commitment to nonviolence and his actions against political, social, and economic inequalities.
- Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti: Established in 1984, the Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti honor the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi and promote his ideals. It oversees the Gandhi Memorial in New Delhi, where Gandhi lived and perished in 1948.
A Brief History of Gandhi Jayanti
Mahatma Gandhi was born in Porbandar, Gujarat, on October 2, 1869. His early years were characterized by a modest upbringing and a strong moral basis that his parents instilled in him.
- Mahatma Gandhi’s Core Principles: Satyagraha and Ahimsa
Gandhi popularized two key ideas that formed the pillars of his philosophy and the methods of his resistance: satyagraha, or the force of truth, and ahimsa, or non-violence.
- Mahatma Gandhi’s Role in India’s Fight For Freedom
Gandhi’s nonviolent strategy and his capacity to win people over with love and compassion during British colonial authority had a significant influence on India’s civil rights campaigns.
- Assassination and Enduring Legacy
Tragically, Nathuram Godse killed Mahatma Gandhi on January 30, 1948, yet his memory lives on as an inspiration to those who value nonviolence above all else.
Commemorative Activities on Gandhi Jayanti 2024
Gandhi Jayanti is a day when the country observes a variety of events to commemorate Mahatma Gandhi, including:
- Prayer Meetings: Gandhi Ashrams and other locations are the sites of prayer sessions where people congregate to reflect on the spiritual and philosophical facets of Gandhi’s life.
- Devotional Songs: During these events, “Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram,” one of Gandhi’s favorite bhajans, is sung with great devotion, spreading a message of peace and unity.
- Award Presentation: Awards are given to people and institutions that, in keeping with Gandhi’s ideals, have significantly improved society.
- Rallies: Gandhian principles of social justice and nonviolence are promoted through peaceful processions and rallies.
Gandhi Jayanti 2024 Celebrations Nationwide
Gandhi Jayanti is a national holiday celebrated in all Indian states and union territories. On this day, colleges and schools around the country celebrate in style, with students competing in a variety of events honoring Gandhi’s legacy. Young people receive prizes in an effort to instill in them a feeling of leadership and responsibility.
Symbols
Several places hold significance in the celebration of Gandhi Jayanti:
- The Martyr’s Column: The place where on January 30, 1948, Mahatma Gandhi was killed.
- The Raj Ghat: The place where on January 31, 1948, Mahatma Gandhi’s remains were cremated.
- The Triveni Sangam: The confluence of the Yamuna, Saraswati, and Ganga rivers represents the harmony and variety that Gandhi worked to uphold throughout his life.
FAQs
What is Gandhi Jayanti?
Gandhi Jayanti, observed on October 2nd of each year, commemorates the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.
Why is Gandhi Jayanti celebrated?
It is observed to honor Mahatma Gandhi’s contributions to India’s freedom as well as his values of honesty and nonviolence.
How is Gandhi Jayanti observed in India?
It is celebrated with prayers, clean-up campaigns, cultural events, and tributes at Gandhi statues.
What is the significance of Gandhi’s principle of non-violence?
Gandhi’s ‘Ahimsa,’ or nonviolent concept, was crucial to India’s nonviolent freedom movement.
Which movements were led by Gandhi?
Gandhi spearheaded a variety of campaigns, such as the Quit India Movement, the Non-Cooperation Movement, and the Salt March.