Gandhi Jayanti
Gandhi Jayanti is an Indian holiday marking the October 2nd birthday of Mahatma Gandhi. The United Nations celebrates the day as International Day of Non-Violence. Called the "Father of The Nation" by Subhas Chandra Bose, Gandhi espoused one of the most well known philosophies of nonviolent resistance.[1]
| Gandhi Jayanti | |
|---|---|
| Observed by | India |
| Type | National |
| Significance | Honours Mahatma Gandhi's role in Indian Independence. |
| Observances | Community, historical celebration |
| Date | 2 October |
| Frequency | Annual |
| Related to | International Day of Non-Violence Republic Day Independence Day |
Commemoration edit
The holiday falls on October 2.[2] and is observed in all of India's states and territories. It is marked by prayer services and tributes across India, including at Gandhi's memorial, Raj Ghat, in New Delhi where he was cremated. Popular activities include prayer meetings, commemorative ceremonies in different cities by colleges, local government institutions and socio-political institutions.[citation needed] On this day awards are granted for projects in schools and the community encouraging a nonviolent way of life as well as celebrating Gandhi's effort in the Indian independence movement.[3] Gandhi's favourite Bhajan (Hindu devotional song), Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram, is usually sung in his memory.[4] Statues of Mahatma Gandhi throughout the country are decorated with flowers and garlands, and some people avoid drinking alcohol or eating meat on the day.[5] Public buildings, banks and post offices are closed.[5] On the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti 2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi started the Swachh Bharat Mission. Its second phase started on Gandhi Jayanti 2021.[6]
Notes edit
- ^ "UN declares 2 October, Gandhi's birthday, as International Day of Non-Violence". United Nations. 15 June 2007. Retrieved 9 October 2014.
- ^ "Gandhi Jayanti: Who Is the Real Father of the World?". SA News Channel. 1 October 2021. Retrieved 2 October 2021.
- ^ "Gandhi Jayanti". Simon Fraser University. Retrieved 15 April 2006.
- ^ . The Hindu. Archived from the original on 17 February 2006. Retrieved 16 November 2006.
- ^ a b "Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti in India". Time and Date. Retrieved 1 October 2017.
- ^ "Towards a Swachh Bharat | Prime Minister of India". www.pmindia.gov.in. Retrieved 2 October 2021.