Every year on October 2, India celebrates the birth of its iconic leader Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi. He has been given the title of ‘Father of the Nation’ for his relentless hard work that helped India attain freedom. By remembering him on this day, celebrated as Gandhi Jayanti, we pay tribute to this great leader.

Born on October 2, 1869, Gandhiji (as he was fondly called) belonged to a merchant class family. At the age of 24, he went to South Africa to pursue law. Gandhi returned to India in 1915 and joined the Indian National Congress as a member and became its president soon. He fought against social evils, such as untouchability, casteism and helped the poor and the needy. All his life, he favoured the path of truth and non-violence. The United Nations General Assembly announced on 15 June 2007 that October 2 will be celebrated as the International Day of Non-Violence.

Why do we celebrate Gandhi Jayanti?

 Mahatma Gandhi is considered as one of the most prominent leaders of the Indian Independence struggle. People, irrespective of their religion and caste, celebrate his birth by organising peaceful events in schools and colleges. Some even pay a visit to the Sabarmati Ashram, where he spent a considerable amount of time.

By celebrating the greatness of the Mahatma, we pledge to adopt his way of life and principles of empathy, humbleness, honesty and sincerity.