Gandhi Jayanti is observed on October 2nd each year. It is a day dedicated to honoring Mahatma Gandhi, known as the 'Father of the Nation', both in India and around the globe. This occasion is more than just a public holiday; it serves as a moment to reflect on Gandhi's principles.
The struggle for India's independence was a challenging era. During this time, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, affectionately referred to as 'Bapu' (father), emerged as a beacon of hope. Gandhi Jayanti is celebrated not only to mark his birth but also to commemorate his belief that meaningful change can be achieved through non-violence.
Born as Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi in 1869 he originated from Porbandar, Gujarat. He was a normal child who later went to London to study law. The time he spent in South Africa paved the way to his ideals, which he would live through for the rest of his life.
When Gandhi returned to India in 1915, India’s freedom struggle had just taken a new turn. He spearheaded many freedom movements, like the Non-Cooperation Movement and the Salt March. A common recurring theme for all of his movements remained as Non-Violence.
"An eye for an eye makes the whole world blind," is one of his many famous quotes that are widely used. His idea of Ahimsa (non-violence) did not just preach about refraining from causing anyone physical harm, for him, it was a way of life that demanded love and understanding, even in the face of adversity.
The day of Gandhi Jayanti is observed as a national holiday for all offices, schools, and banks in India. But the day is far from quiet. Prayers and songs of patriotism echo across the country in harmonious union. The whole country pays homage and tribute to the man who is the Father of this Nation.
At Raj Ghat, Gandhi's memorial in Delhi, the day is started with prayers and flowers. The President and Prime Minister lead these ceremonies. In homes and community centres, people sing Gandhi's favourite songs and talk about his teachings.
With time, Gandhi’s values are not just a memory but they are theory in practice which also evolves as times change. The day dedicated to him stretches far more than just a memory, it is also about learning. Several schools organise essay contests and debates that focus on preaching and educating children on Gandhism. Clean-up drives and community service activities are also ways in which we pay respect to Gandhi. These acts display the widespread fame of Gandhi's ideas of cleanliness and helping others.
Gandhi's ideas have spread far and beyond in every nook and cranny of the world. His method of silent and nonviolent form of rebellion has been used for many other causes that demand reforms across the world. In India, his ideas are embedded into the country’s rich tapestry.
Gandhi's methods have been used by many other thoughtful leaders fighting for human rights. Martin Luther King Jr. in America and Nelson Mandela in South Africa were inspired by Gandhi's ideas.
Satyagraha, which means 'the path of truth or the force of truth’', was Gandhi's main concept. It preaches rebellion against discrimination and to stand for what is right without using violence. Gandhi believed that a man’s calling to follow his conscience is the only way to bring about true change in the world.
Gandhi believed all religions were equal. He often said, "I am a Hindu, a Muslim, a Christian, and a Jew." His idea of a secular country where all religions coexist and live peacefully together is the foundation of India.
Gandhi fought not just for political freedom, but also for social change. He worked against untouchability, for women's rights, and for village development. These ideas were very new for his time.
Gandhi Jayanti is celebrated in many countries. From the United Nations in New York to schools in South Africa, Gandhi's message is shared globally. Talks, exhibitions, and cultural programs are organised.
The United Nations has declared 2nd October as the International Day of Non-Violence. This shows how important Gandhi's ideas are seen around the world. Many world leaders often talk about Gandhi's principles in their speeches.
Gandhi's ideas are taught in many schools. His autobiography, 'My Experiments with Truth', is often read by students. This is not just about learning history, but about learning values for a better future.
Many schools use activities and role-playing to teach Gandhi's ideas. These help students understand things like how to solve problems without fighting.
Some people ask if Gandhi's teachings are still useful today. In a world with problems like climate change and social inequality, Gandhi's ideas about simple living and social harmony are still very important.
Gandhi's principles can be used to solve modern problems. For example, his idea of 'trusteeship' in business is similar to modern ideas about corporate social responsibility where businesses are required to give back to society in some form or the other.
Why is Gandhi Jayanti celebrated? Gandhi Jayanti is celebrated to remember Mahatma Gandhi's birthday and his ideas of non-violence and independence.
Is Gandhi Jayanti celebrated only in India? Gandhi Jayanti is mainly celebrated in India, but it is recognised in many other countries too.
What are some common activities on Gandhi Jayanti? Prayer meetings, ceremonies, community service, and learning programs about Gandhi's life are commonly organised.
Is Gandhi Jayanti a public holiday? Yes, Gandhi Jayanti is a national holiday in India. Most offices and schools are closed on this day.
How can one participate in Gandhi Jayanti celebrations? People can join local events, do community service, read about Gandhi's life, or think about how his ideas can be used in their own lives.
Gandhi Jayanti is about more than just remembering Gandhi. It is about following in his footsteps and to live life the Gandhian way without foul play or causing harm to those around us and against us. Gandhi’s ideas paved the path for a new world where conflicts are resolved without resorting to violence. While the world is struck by conflict and acts of violence and wars, the idea of remembering Gandhi is with the hope that someday, peace will prevail and people in war stricken countries will see a new dawn of freedom and harmony.
This Gandhi Jayanti, let us spread Gandhi’s philosophy far and wide as our voices may reach. We all can stand up for something we believe in, or be kind to someone different from us. As Gandhi said, "We will be the change you wish to see in the world." Gandhi Jayanti is not just a national holiday. It should be a day where we strive to make the world a better place. This is the best way to honour Gandhi’s memory.
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