Who Was Mahatma Gandhi?

Mahatma Gandhi, born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, Gujarat, India, is known as the “Father of the Nation.” His full name was Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi. Gandhi was a lawyer, anti-colonial nationalist, and political ethicist who led India to independence and inspired movements for civil rights and freedom across the world through his philosophy of non-violence and truth.

Gandhi’s influence was global, touching not only the Indian subcontinent but also the movements for civil rights and freedom across the world. He is best remembered for his principles of Ahimsa (non-violence) and Satyagraha (truth and firmness), which remain relevant in today’s world.

The Significance of October 2nd

Every year, on October 2nd, India celebrates Gandhi Jayanti to mark the birth of this great leader. This day is a national holiday in India and is observed by the United Nations as the International Day of Non-Violence. People around the world commemorate Gandhi’s contributions to peace and tolerance.

Gandhi’s Principles: Truth and Non-Violence

Gandhi’s philosophy was centered around truth (Satya) and non-violence (Ahimsa). He believed that through non-violent means, a society can achieve justice, equality, and freedom without bloodshed or hatred. His most famous acts of civil disobedience include the Salt March of 1930, which was a peaceful protest against British salt taxes, and his leadership in the Quit India Movement in 1942.

Celebrating Gandhi Jayanti in India

On Gandhi Jayanti, various programs and events are organized across India to celebrate Gandhi’s life and legacy. One of the most prominent events takes place at the Raj Ghat in New Delhi, where the President and Prime Minister of India pay homage to Gandhi at his memorial. Many people gather to offer prayers, sing hymns, and reflect on Gandhi’s contributions to India’s independence.

In schools and colleges, essay competitions, debates, and plays about Gandhi’s life are organized to inspire the youth. Many communities also conduct cleanliness drives, inspired by Gandhi’s focus on sanitation and cleanliness, a legacy carried forward by the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission).

Gandhi’s Global Legacy

Beyond India, Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violence and civil disobedience has inspired leaders and movements across the world. Figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela drew from Gandhi’s teachings to lead their own fights for justice, equality, and freedom in the United States and South Africa, respectively.

Today, the principles of non-violence are more relevant than ever, with global movements for peace, human rights, and freedom reflecting Gandhi’s ideas.