Gandhi Jayanti 2024: 155th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi
Gandhi Jayanti 2024 will be celebrated on October 2nd across the world. Keep reading to learn about the 155th Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti 2024 and International Day of Non-Violence 2024.
Deeksha Dixit2 Oct, 2024
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Gandhi Jayanti 2024: Gandhi Jayanti, celebrated on October 2 every year, commemorates the birth of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, popularly known as Mahatma Gandhi or the Father of the Nation. Gandhi Jayanti 2024 will mark his 155th birth anniversary, a special occasion not just for India but globally.
Gandhi Jayanti 2024 is a day of remembering the life and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi and especially his principles of non-violence, truth, and social justice are very relevant as the world faces terrorism and other forms of violence. For UPSC aspirants, Mahatma Gandhi’s life and ideologies hold great significance as they are deeply woven into the history of India’s freedom struggle and the shaping of modern India. Read on to explore various aspects of his life on Gandhi Jayanti 2024.Mahatma Gandhi Birth Anniversary 2024
Gandhi Jayanti 2024, observed on October 2, will reflect on the contribution of Mahatma Gandhi in steering India toward freedom from British rule. Gandhi's non-violent approach, often termed Satyagraha , united people across various communities and religions, making him a pivotal figure in the independence movement. Mahatma Gandhi Birth Anniversary 2024 is recognized as the International Day of Non-Violence, highlighting Gandhi's global influence. On this day, events will be held across India and worldwide, including prayer meetings, commemorations at Raj Ghat in New Delhi, and discussions on Gandhian principles.Gandhi Jayanti 2024: Biography of Mahatma Gandhi
Gandhi’s journey from a lawyer in London to a leader of a global non-violence movement is inspiring, especially in understanding the transformation of political thought and action. His life serves as a powerful example of how one individual can influence the course of history and inspire generations to come.| Mahatma Gandhi Biography - Overview | |
| Particular | Details |
| Full Name | Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi |
| Birth | October 2, 1869, Porbandar, Gujarat, India |
| Family Background | Father : Karamchand Gandhi Mother: Putlibai. |
| Spouse | Kasturbai |
| Education | University College London, Alfred High School |
| President of INC | Belgaum Session (1924) |
| Major Movements | Champaran Satyagraha, Kheda Satyagraha, Salt March, Quit India Movement |
| Death | January 30, 1948 |
| Eepitaphs | Hey Ram |
| Posthumous Recognition | Commemorated globally; October 2 is observed as International Day of Non-Violence. |
Gandhi’s Formative Years: Early Life and Education
Mohandas Gandhi was born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, a coastal town in Gujarat, India. He belonged to a Hindu Modh Baniya family. His father, Karamchand Gandhi, s erved as the Diwan (Chief Minister) of Porbandar, and his mother, Putlibai, was deeply religious, influencing Gandhi with her spiritual practices. Gandhi grew up in a strict yet caring household, where honesty and simplicity were integral values. He was married to Kasturbai in 1882, aged 13. In 1888 , he traveled to London to study law, joining the Inner Temple, one of the four law colleges in the city. Gandhi was initially uncomfortable with Western customs but gradually adapted to the environment. His time in England exposed him to various intellectual and ethical ideas, significantly shaping his worldview.Gandhi’s Time in London
Though Gandhi struggled with the complexities of Western life, his stay in London gave him insight into the European socio-political structures. He studied the works of philosophers like Tolstoy and John Ruskin, and their writings on nonviolence and simple living resonated deeply with him. One particularly influential text was Ruskin's "Unto This Last, " which inspired his ideal of Sarvodaya. These intellectual influences would later form the basis of his principles of Satyagraha, or the insistence on truth and nonviolent resistance.The South African Chapter: A Fight Against Racism
After completing his legal education, Gandhi went to South Africa in 1893 to attend to a legal matter of Dada Abdullah Jhave. This was a pivotal moment in his life as he encountered systematic racism for the first time . One incident, where he was thrown off a train in Pietermaritzburg for refusing to leave a "whites-only" compartment, served as a turning point. This moment of humiliation fueled his desire to fight for justice and the dignity of the oppressed. His first nonviolent resistance movement was aimed at securing the rights of Indian immigrants who were subjected to harsh labor conditions and unjust laws. He founded the 'Natal Indian Congress' in 1894 , started Indian Opinion in 1903, and established the ‘Phoenix Settlement ’ in 1904 . Gandhi’s nonviolent methods laid the foundation for future movements in India, and South Africa became his testing ground for developing tactics that would later challenge British colonialism.Return to India: Leading the Freedom Struggle
In 1915 , Gandhi returned to India, equipped with his principles of nonviolent civil disobedience. He was quickly drawn into the freedom struggle and started advocating for the rights of India's poorest communities. He focused on addressing their concerns and highlighting injustices such as high taxes and exploitative British policies.| Key Event | Year | Impact |
| Champaran Satyagraha | 1917 | First major victory for Gandhi’s nonviolent resistance |
| Kheda Satyagraha | 1918 | Farmers won tax relief from British authorities |
| Ahmedabad Mill Strike | 1918 | Highlighted workers' rights and strengthened Gandhi's leadership in the labor movement |
| Rowlatt Satyagraha | 1919 | Protest against repressive laws; led to widespread unrest and the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. |
| Non-Cooperation Movement | 1920-22 | Mobilized masses against British rule and marked a significant rise in nationalist sentiment. |
| Round Table Conference | 1930-32 | Provided a platform for Indian leaders to discuss constitutional reforms, though ultimately failed to yield significant change. |
| Salt March | 1930 | Sparked nationwide civil disobedience and brought global attention to India's struggle |
| Civil Disobedience Movement | 1930 to 1934 | Marked a crucial phase of mass resistance, leading to widespread protests against British laws. |
| Poona Pact | 1932 | Improved representation for Dalits in legislatures and addressed social inequalities. |
The Quit India Movement: The Final Struggle for Freedom
In 1942, Gandhi launched the Quit India Movement , demanding an immediate end to British rule. This marked the last major chapter in India's independence struggle. Gandhi’s call for mass civil disobedience led to widespread protests across India. The slogan "Do or Die " resonated widely, prompting mass protests, strikes, and demonstrations across the country. Although the movement was suppressed, it weakened British control and increased demands for freedom. By 1947, these efforts helped India gain independence, leaving a lasting legacy of courage and unity in the struggle for freedom. He was fondly given many titles, such as " Mahatma, " meaning "Great Soul," given by Rabindranath Tagore, and "Father of the Nation ," by Subhash Chandra Bose, reflecting the deep respect and admiration for his leadership.The Final Years and Legacy of Gandhi
As India moved closer to independence, tensions between Hindus and Muslims grew, leading to the partition of India in 1947. Gandhi ji, deeply pained by the resulting communal violence, traveled extensively to promote peace and reconciliation. Tragically, on January 30, 1948, Gandhi was assassinated by Nathuram Godse, sending shockwaves across the nation and the world. His death marked a profound loss for India and those who believed in his vision of nonviolence and communal harmony. However, Gandhi's legacy as a champion of nonviolence and civil rights continues to influence global movements for justice and equality. Leaders like Martin Luther King Jr . and Nelson Mandela drew from his principles to advance their causes.Relevance of Mahatma Gandhi’s Ideas in Present Times
The Gandhi Jayanti 2024 will remind us that even today, Mahatma Gandhi’s principles and thoughts are highly relevant. His ideas on non-violence (Ahimsa), truth (Satya), self-reliance (Swadeshi), and sustainable living echo strongly to inspire us to address modern challenges.- Non-violence: In an era of global conflicts, terrorism, and political unrest, Gandhi’s principle of resolving conflicts without violence is a lesson for contemporary leaders.
- Truth and Integrity: Gandhi’s commitment to truth is essential in current times when misinformation and fake news are rampant.
- Swadeshi and Self-reliance : With the Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative, Gandhi’s emphasis on Swadeshi has regained importance. His belief in local production and self-sufficiency is echoed in modern economic policies.
- Sustainable Living: In the wake of environmental challenges and climate change, Gandhi’s advocacy for simple living and sustainable resource use offers solutions.
International Day of Non-Violence 2024
Since 2007, October 2 has been globally observed as the International Day of Non-Violence, as declared by the United Nations. The objective of this day is to “disseminate the message of non-violence through education and public awareness. ” In 2024, this day takes on even greater importance with rising global tensions, wars, and civil unrest in various parts of the world. Events and discussions held globally on this day will focus on peace-building efforts, conflict resolution, and promoting a culture of dialogue over war.UPSC PYQs on Mahatma Gandhi
Questions related to Mahatma Gandhi and his ideologies are a common occurrence in both the UPSC Preliminary and Mains exams. Here are some Previous Year Questions (PYQs) related to Gandhi ji:- UPSC GS 4 Paper 2013: There is enough on this earth for every one’s need but for no one’s greed.” Mahatma Gandhi. (10 marks| 150 words)
- UPSC GS 1 Paper 2016: Highlight the differences in the approach of Subhash Chandra Bose and Mahatma Gandhi in the struggle for freedom. (200 words, 12.5 marks)
- UPSC GS 1 Paper 2018: Throw light on the significance of the thoughts of Mahatma Gandhi in the present times. (150 words, 10 Marks)
- UPSC GS 1 Paper 2021: Bring out the constructive programmes of Mahatma Gandhi during Non-Cooperation Movement and Civil Disobedience Movement. (250 words, 15 Marks)
Gandhi Jayanti 2024 FAQs
Who was born on 2nd October?
Mahatma Gandhi, the leader of the Indian independence movement and advocate for non-violence and civil rights, was born on October 2, 1869.
Why is Gandhi Jayanti celebrated on October 2 along with the International Day of Non-Violence?
Gandhi Jayanti is celebrated on October 2 to honor Gandhi's legacy and principles of non-violence. The United Nations designated this day as the International Day of Non-Violence to promote peaceful resolutions and the philosophy of non-violent action.
What is the significance of Gandhi Jayanti in 2024?
Gandhi Jayanti 2024 marks the 155th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and is observed to honor his contributions to India’s freedom and his principles of non-violence.
What are some of Mahatma Gandhi’s notable contributions to India’s freedom struggle?
Gandhi led several pivotal movements like the Salt March, Quit India Movement, and promoted principles of Satyagraha and Swadeshi that were central to India’s independence.
What lessons can we learn from Gandhi’s life today?
Gandhi’s life teaches us the importance of non-violence, integrity, and the power of collective action.
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