Gandhi Jayanti: History, Significance and Celebration
Gandhi Jayanti is an occasion celebrated on the 2nd of October every year in India to mark the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi. It was officially announced as one of India’s national holidays, and the UN General Assembly declared it as the International Day of Non-Violence. Memorial services mark it, and tributes are given throughout India, including the renowned places he visited and was cremated.
The nonviolent movement is one of the most significant acts of Mahatma Gandhi’s life. It is made sure that it is implemented and rewarded to celebrate Mahatma Gandhi’s effort in the Indian independence movement. Mahatma Gandhi’s favourite Bhajan, Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram, is usually sung in his memory. Statues of Mahatma Gandhi are decorated with flowers and garlands throughout India, and some people refrain from consuming meat and alcohol on that day. Public buildings, such as banks and post offices, are closed for the day.
Importance of Gandhi Jayanti
Mahatma Gandhi was born in India under British control. He was undoubtedly the most well-known participant in the fight for Indian independence. He received the title of “Father of The Nation” due to his tireless efforts to secure India’s freedom.
Gandhi was from a merchant-class family. At the age of 24, this confident man travelled to South Africa. He travelled there to study law. In 1915, he returned from South Africa. Later, he joined the Indian National Congress. He quickly secured the position of president of Congress due to his tireless effort.
Mahatma Gandhi’s goals were beyond achieving Indian freedom. The man also battled several social evils. These social evils include casteism, female servitude, and untouchability. He also put a lot of effort into helping the underprivileged and needy. Mahatma Gandhi had a great dislike for British rule in India. However, he did not support the path of violence but was a strict believer in the Ahimsa school of thought (non-violence). Consequently, this man opposed British rule peacefully.
Gandhi nonviolent activities and protests were also quite successful. His strategies and plans were adequate. Gandhiji inspired other world leaders because of his extraordinary efficiency. Mahatma Gandhi received the honorific title “Mahatma” once more. A great soul is what the word “Mahatma” means. His birthday is celebrated with great respect and remembrance.
Gandhi Jayanti Celebration
The occasion of Gandhi Jayanti is a grand festival in India. The celebration takes place in every State and Union territory, where prayer services or tributes are held to honour the memory of Mahatma Gandhi. He was a man responsible for many good things, including his commitment against racism which we still see today even though he has gone.
The events happen throughout schools – both government institutions and private ones; there can be found memorial ceremonies too. Competitions for writing, art, and other activities take place worldwide. Prices are also distributed for these competitions. Students in several schools and universities also watch plays and documentaries about Mahatma Gandhi’s journey.
As a result, youth are encouraged to live a non-violent lifestyle. Additionally, there are occasions for singing Gandhi Ji’s favourite Bhajan (Hindu devotional song). Gandhi Ji’s monuments are decorated with flowers and garlands as part of celebration. Gandhi Jayanti celebrates Mahatma Gandhi’s outstanding character. It’s a chance to pause and appreciate this fantastic personality’s life. On this day, everyone must also make an effort to live like him. Indeed, Gandhi Jayanti is considered a patriotic day in India.
Best Places to Observe Gandhi Jayanti in India
Gandhi Jayanti is celebrated with utmost enthusiasm in the following places because of the historical importance related to them.
1. Sabarmati Ashram, Ahmedabad, Gujarat
Gandhi Jayanti is celebrated with great respect at Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. On this special day, visitors from all over the country and the world gather at the ashram to pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi. The celebration typically begins with a morning prayer meeting, where devotional songs and Gandhi’s favourite bhajans are sung. The day also involves activities like spinning cotton on charkhas, which was one of Gandhi’s symbolic acts of self-reliance and economic empowerment. Additionally, visitors take a tour of the ashram to explore the historical artefacts and the place where Gandhi lived and worked for many years.
2. Aga Khan Palace, Pune, MaharashtraThe celebrations at Aga Khan Palace, Pune typically begin with a prayer meeting, where people sing devotional songs and recite Gandhi’s favourite hymns. To honour his legacy, volunteers often engage in activities such as cleaning the premises and planting trees, promoting Gandhi’s message of self-sufficiency and environmental consciousness. The Aga Khan Palace serves as a reminder of Gandhi’s captivity during India’s struggle for independence, and on this day, it becomes a hub of reflection and tribute to his enduring legacy of peace and freedom.
3. Mani Bhavan Gandhi Museum, Mumbai, Maharashtra
On this significant day, the Mani Bhavan Gandhi Museum pays homage to Mahatma Gandhi by organizing a series of events and activities. Special exhibitions showcasing rare artefacts, photographs, and documents related to Gandhi’s life are also set up, offering visitors a glimpse into his remarkable journey.
4. Gandhi Smriti, Raj Ghat, Delhi
Gandhi Jayanti, celebrated at Gandhi Smriti in Raj Ghat, Delhi, is a reflective occasion dedicated to honouring the life and teachings of Mahatma Gandhi. Visitors often garland the black marble memorial marking his cremation site with flowers, and dignitaries from across the nation come to offer floral tributes.
