About this day
Why it is kept and where it comes from
Gandhi Jayanti is observed annually on 2 October to commemorate the birth anniversary of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi (1869–1948), reverently known as Mahatma Gandhi and the Father of the Nation. A pioneer of Satyagraha (resistance through mass non-violent civil disobedience), Gandhi led India to independence from British colonial rule and inspired civil rights and freedom movements worldwide. In 2007, the United Nations General Assembly declared 2 October as the International Day of Non-Violence.
Celebrates the immortal principles of Satya (Truth), Ahimsa (Non-violence), Sarvodaya (Welfare of All), and moral courage. It is an occasion to reflect on peaceful coexistence, communal harmony, and civic responsibility.
How the day is observed
- 1Step 1
Floral tributes and multi-faith prayer services at Rajghat, New Delhi, attended by national leaders.
- 2Step 2
Collective singing of his favorite bhajans: "Vaishnava Jana To" and "Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram".
- 3Step 3
Cleanliness and sanitation drives across institutions nationwide under the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.
- 4Step 4
Exhibitions promoting Khadi, village industries, and rural self-reliance (Swadeshi).
- 5Step 5
Educational seminars, peace marches, and essay competitions in schools and universities.