Gandhi Jayanti: A Celebration of Peace and Non-Violence
Introduction
Gandhi Jayanti is a national holiday in India that commemorates the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation and the leader of the Indian independence movement. Mahatma Gandhi was born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, Gujarat. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in world history, who inspired millions of people with his principles of truth, non-violence, and civil disobedience. He led several campaigns against British colonial rule, such as the Dandi Salt March, the Quit India Movement, and the Non-Cooperation Movement. He also advocated for social justice, religious harmony, and environmental protection. He was assassinated on January 30, 1948, by a Hindu extremist who opposed his efforts to reconcile Hindus and Muslims.
Significance of Gandhi Jayanti
Gandhi Jayanti is celebrated on October 2 every year to honor the life and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi. It is one of the three national holidays in India, along with Republic Day (January 26) and Independence Day (August 15). It is also recognized as the International Day of Non-Violence by the United Nations General Assembly since 2007. The day aims to spread the message of peace, tolerance, and non-violence across the world, especially in times of conflict and violence.
How is Gandhi Jayanti Celebrated?
Gandhi Jayanti is marked by various events and activities across India and abroad. Some of the common ways of celebrating Gandhi Jayanti are:
- Prayer services and tributes at Raj Ghat, the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi in New Delhi, where he was cremated. The President, Prime Minister, and other dignitaries pay their respects to the Mahatma on this occasion.
- Cultural programs and competitions in schools, colleges, and other institutions. Students participate in essay writing, speech delivery, painting, quiz, and other contests based on the theme of Gandhi’s life and teachings.
- Awareness campaigns and social service activities by various organizations and individuals. People volunteer to clean their surroundings, plant trees, donate blood, help the needy, and promote communal harmony as part of the Swachh Bharat Mission, which was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Gandhi Jayanti 2014.
- Singing of Gandhi’s favorite devotional song, Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram, which reflects his ideals of universal brotherhood and love.
- Avoidance of alcohol and meat consumption by some people as a mark of respect to Gandhi’s vegetarianism and abstinence from intoxicants.
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