Gandhi Jayanti 2022: History, Importance, And Significance Of 2nd October. All You Need To Know

Mahatma Gandhi's ideas and philosophies were more geared toward the battle for liberty, which is why he is regarded as the nation's tallest leader of the independence movement.

Golden statue of Mahatma Gandhi at Gandhi Park, Port Blair, South Andaman Island, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India.

Source : Getty

New Delhi: Gandhi Jayanti is an Indian national holiday observed on October 2nd. This day commemorates the birth of the nation's Father, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, often known as Mahatma Gandhi or Bapuji. This day is also known as the International Day of Nonviolence because Gandhiji was a preacher of non-violence and was a symbol peace and honesty.

Gandhi Jayanti 2022: Who was Mahatma Gandhi?

Gandhi was a pivotal figure in India's liberation struggle. His nonviolent approach supported and inspired various civil rights groups across the world, where he worked to make significant changes in society.

Mahatma Gandhi was perhaps the only Indian leader who impacted Indians regardless of their language, caste, or faith. He was a strong supporter of equality and firmly believed in the abolition of casteism, bringing him closer to people from all across India. He so motivated men and women across the country to engage in the independence battle that ladies even gave their mangal sutras to help support the cause.

Born on October 2, 1869 in Porbandar, he was always vocal about his patriotism and yearned for a unified India. His ideas and philosophies were more geared toward the battle for liberty, which is why he is regarded as the nation's tallest leader of the independence movement.

He then moved to South Africa to study law and launched a statewide campaign for farmers and labourers when he was younger. Among his numerous efforts and battles, he was against caste inequality and advocated for greater women's rights.

Meanwhile, he led the Dandi Salt March in 1930 and the Quit India Movement in 1942 in India. These two movements were among the reasons that Britishers were forced to leave India.

Gandhi Jayanti 2022: Significance:

This particular day is observed throughout the country to honour and pay homage to the Nation's Father. On this day, people recall Gandhi's indispensible contributions to India's independence cause. Furthermore, Gandhi's groundbreaking ideals and ethics of ahimsa and swaraj are recognised by all Indian institutions. His lessons and wisdom are being spread via numerous initiatives by people and organisations aimed at improving our surrounds and the country.

Gandhi Jayanti 2022: How it is usually celebrated?

Gandhi Jayanti is celebrated throughout India with prayer services and tributes, notably at Gandhi's monument, Raj Ghat, in New Delhi, where he was cremated. Prayer gatherings and commemorative celebrations in many cities by colleges, local government institutions, and socio-political institutions are popular activities. Painting and essay contests are held, and the top awards are given to initiatives in schools and communities that promote a peaceful way of life while also commemorating Gandhi's contribution to the Indian independence cause. Bhajan Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram, Gandhi's favourite, is generally performed in his honour.

Mahatma Gandhi statues are decked with flowers and garlands around the country, and some individuals refrain from consuming alcohol or eating meat on the day. Government buildings, banks, and post offices are all closed.