“Raghupati Raghava Raja Ram
Patita Pāvana Sītā Rām,
Īśvar Allāh Tero Nām,
Sabko Sanmati De Bhagavān”
The soft rhythm of Raghupati Raghava Raja Ram is more than just a bhajan—it was the heartbeat of India’s freedom struggle. Mahatma Gandhi often sang this prayer during his marches and meetings, weaving together the essence of truth, non-violence, and religious harmony. These lines symbolized his vision of a nation where people of all faiths live in unity, guided by peace and compassion.
And so, every 2nd October, India pauses to honor the man who made these words immortal—the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi. Celebrated as Gandhi Jayanti, this day marks his birth anniversary and serves as a reminder that his principles of Satya (truth) and Ahimsa (non-violence) are not relics of history but living ideals for humanity.
It is one of India’s three national holidays, but Gandhi Jayanti is more than just a day off. It is a call for reflection—a chance to revisit Gandhiji’s teachings that helped India win freedom without raising a sword. Globally, this day carries equal weight, as the United Nations observes 2nd October as the International Day of Non-Violence.
Across India, people pay tribute at Raj Ghat in Delhi, sing Gandhiji’s favorite bhajans, organize prayer services, and hold events in schools and communities to spread his timeless message. From leaders to common citizens, Gandhi Jayanti unites the nation in gratitude and respect.
History of Gandhi Jayanti—Why 2nd October Matters
Mahatma Gandhi, born as Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi on 2nd October 1869 in Porbandar, Gujarat, grew up in a modest household with strong cultural and spiritual values. His father, Karamchand Gandhi, served as the Diwan (chief minister) of Porbandar, while his mother, Putlibai, instilled in him deep faith, simplicity, and compassion.
From a young age, Gandhiji was drawn to principles of truth, morality, and discipline—qualities that later shaped his role as one of the greatest leaders in human history. After studying law in London, he began his career in South Africa, where he witnessed racial discrimination firsthand. This experience ignited in him the fire of justice and equality, leading to the birth of his philosophy of Satyagraha (truth-force) and Ahimsa (non-violence).
When Gandhi returned to India in 1915, he brought with him a revolutionary yet peaceful way of fighting injustice. Through movements like the Champaran Satyagraha, the Non-Cooperation Movement, the Dandi Salt March, and the Quit India Movement, he united millions of Indians under one cause—freedom from British rule.
Thus, Gandhi Jayanti is not just the celebration of his birth but also the remembrance of his lifelong mission:
To lead with truth instead of deceit
To fight with non-violence instead of weapons
To unite people beyond religion, caste, or creed
This is why 2nd October was declared a national holiday, ensuring that every generation remembers Gandhiji’s values. In 2007, the United Nations General Assembly declared as International Day of Non-Violence, making Gandhi Jayanti a symbol of peace for the entire world.
Significance of Gandhi Jayanti in Today’s World
Gandhi Jayanti on 2nd October is not just a day on the calendar—it is a living reminder that truth and non-violence are stronger than any weapon. More than 150 years after his birth, Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy continues to guide India and inspire the world. His ideas are not confined to history books; they are practical lessons for the present and the future.
A Festival of National Unity
When India celebrates Gandhi Jayanti, differences of caste, religion, and language are set aside. From small villages to big cities, people pay homage to Bapu, demonstrating that his dream of an India built on unity and equality remains alive.
Gandhi’s Global Relevance
In 2007, the United Nations declared 2nd October as the International Day of Non-Violence. This shows that Gandhi’s message was not just for India—it was for humanity. From Martin Luther King Jr. to Nelson Mandela, leaders across the globe drew strength from his path of peace. Even today, his teachings are quoted in peace movements worldwide.
Also Read: Why is Republic Day in India celebrated on 26 January?
Inspiration for the Youth
For students and young professionals, Gandhi Jayanti is more than a holiday. It is a chance to rediscover values like honesty, discipline, compassion, and simplicity. Schools and colleges organize plays, debates, and cultural programs, reminding the younger generation that change begins with small steps of truth and courage.
A Way to Tackle Modern Challenges
In today’s world of conflicts, intolerance, and environmental crises, Gandhi’s voice echoes louder than ever:
Against Violence: His belief in Ahimsa proves that lasting victories come from peace, not war.
For Equality: His fight against untouchability inspires us to end discrimination in all forms.
For Sustainability: His lifestyle of “simple living and high thinking” offers solutions to our climate challenges.
A Day of Reflection, Not Just Celebration
Gandhi Jayanti reminds us that freedom is not just political—it is also moral and spiritual. It asks us to reflect: Are we living by truth? Are we practicing non-violence in thoughts, words, and actions?
How Gandhi Jayanti is Celebrated in India and Across the World
Every year on 2nd October, the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi is celebrated with devotion, respect, and patriotic spirit. Gandhi Jayanti is not just a national holiday in India, but a day that unites people across the world in remembering Bapu’s legacy of truth and non-violence.
Celebrations in India
Tribute at Raj Ghat, New Delhi
The Prime Minister, President, and other leaders pay floral tributes at Raj Ghat, Gandhiji’s memorial in Delhi. Prayer services and bhajans like “Raghupati Raghava Raja Ram” are sung in his honor.Prayer Meetings and Cultural Programs
Schools, colleges, and institutions organize special assemblies with speeches, essays, plays, and debates on Gandhiji’s life and principles. Children dress up as Gandhiji, sing patriotic songs, and perform skits that highlight his role in India’s freedom struggle.Cleanliness Drives (Swachh Bharat Abhiyan)
Inspired by Gandhiji’s vision of cleanliness, campaigns and rallies are organized across the country. Citizens take part in shramdaan (voluntary labor) to clean public spaces, spreading awareness about hygiene and sanitation.Screening of Documentaries & Films
Films like “Gandhi” (1982) and documentaries on his life are telecast to inspire people with his message of peace and resilience.Public Rallies and Exhibitions
Exhibitions showcasing Gandhiji’s writings, letters, and personal belongings are displayed in museums. Marches and rallies are also held to spread awareness about his ideals.
Celebrations Across the World
United Nations Observance
Since 2007, the UN has observed 2nd October as the International Day of Non-Violence. Events, peace marches, and dialogues are organized across member nations, honoring Gandhiji’s philosophy.Global Tributes
Countries like the USA, South Africa, and the UK organize lectures, cultural events, and exhibitions on Mahatma Gandhi. In South Africa, where Gandhiji began his journey as a freedom fighter, the day holds special emotional value.Academic and Peace Conferences
Universities worldwide conduct seminars and conferences discussing Gandhiji’s contributions to peace, civil rights, and non-violent resistance.Statue Tributes
From London’s Parliament Square to Washington D.C. and Johannesburg, people gather around Gandhi statues to pay homage with flowers, candles, and prayers.
Gandhi Jayanti—A Timeless Legacy
Gandhi Jayanti on 2nd October is more than a tribute to the Father of the Nation—it is a reminder that truth and non-violence are eternal values that can guide humanity through every challenge. From his humble beginnings in Porbandar to becoming a global symbol of peace, Mahatma Gandhi’s life was his message.
In 2025, as we celebrate Gandhi Jayanti, we are not just remembering history—we are embracing a way of life. Whether it is practicing honesty in our daily actions, choosing peace over conflict, or adopting simplicity and sustainability, every small step brings us closer to the world Gandhiji envisioned.
Let this Gandhi Jayanti be more than just a holiday.
Visit Raj Ghat or local memorials to pay tribute.
Share inspirational wishes and quotes to spread his message.
Take part in cleanliness drives or community service as a real act of respect.
Most importantly, reflect on how you can bring Satya (truth) and Ahimsa (non-violence) into your own life.
✨ As Gandhiji said:
“In a gentle way, you can shake the world.”
This Gandhi Jayanti, let us all take gentle steps—together—to make the world a kinder, more peaceful place.