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NEW DELHI — India observed Gandhi Jayanti on Wednesday, marking the 156th birth anniversary of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, the leader of the country's independence movement.
Gandhi was born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, Gujarat, and developed principles of non-violence and truth that guided India's struggle against British rule until independence in 1947. The United Nations designated October 2 as the International Day of non-violence in 2007 to honor his legacy.
The day is one of three national holidays in India, alongside Republic Day and Independence Day, and involves prayer services, commemorative ceremonies and tributes at locations across the country. In New Delhi, the President, Prime Minister and other dignitaries paid respects at Raj Ghat, Gandhi's memorial site. Schools and institutions held cultural programs, including bhajan recitals, debates and film screenings on Gandhi's life.
A statement from the Press Information Bureau noted that October 2 reflects national pride in Gandhi's ideals of peace, service and compassion, which continue to guide global efforts for harmony. During the 2023 G20 Summit in New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Gandhi as "the beacon of peace, service, compassion and non-violence" after visiting Raj Ghat.
Celebrations also included public campaigns on cleanliness under the Swachh Bharat initiative and promotion of khadi products, aligning with Gandhi's emphasis on self-reliance. Globally, events took place in countries including the United States, Belgium and Thailand, featuring memorials and cultural gatherings.
No further official events were announced at the time of reporting.
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