Mahatma Gandhi was born on October 2, 1869 in Porbandar, India. On this day each year the nation pays homage to "Bapu," otherwise also known as the "Father of the Nation" who played a significant role in Indian Independence. Mohandas Karamachand Gandhi also referred as 'Gandhiji' was an iconic figure in India and around the globe, recognized for his unique practice of non-violence or ahimsa. He believed in the power of non-violence and in the philosophy of truth known as Satyagraha.
His dedication to non-violent action earned him the reputation as one of the greatest freedom fighters that the world had ever seen. As such, India observes a national holiday on this day to pay reverence to this great soul. Besides his contribution towards the country's freedom struggle, Gandhi will always be remembered as one who inspired many great leaders, Martin Luther King, James Lawson and Nelson Mandela among them.
History
While Gandhi was in South Africa during the 1890's, he was subjected to the injustice of the colonial imperialism. He was a victim of the widespread racial discrimination and social bigotry that plagued the country. These conditions led him to social activism.
In 1894, he formed the Natal Indian Congress of South Africa with the help of the Indian community. This movement later became a strong, national political force. In 1906 while conducting a peaceful protest, he and his members were subjected to harsh and violent treatment by the local government. From this experience emerged the concept of Satyagraha, meaning "independence through force of truth."
On coming to India, Gandhi witnessed similar treatment, so he repeated his protest against the dominance of the British Raj. His non-violent principles were practiced in India first in 1920, when his Non-Cooperation Movement began, later during the Dandi March (1930) and in The Quit India Movement (1942). Gandhi may have not been a martyr in the true sense, but he dedicated his entire life to attaining freedom by resisting violence. Thus, Gandhi Jayanthi is an important day for all Indians. (Jayanti is Hindi for jubilee)
Celebrations and Rituals
This legendary leader is honored on his birthday with prayer services and community functions. Artists hold exhibition that reflect the Gandhian principles of life and freedom, an interpretation of Gandhi's ideologies on canvas. In this way, they honor his contribution to India's freedom struggle in an aesthetic manner. In some places awards are given for non-violence projects or practices. Special speeches are given addressing his life and work, in hopes of educating young minds on his ideas and beliefs.
The day is a national holiday in India. Schools, colleges, offices and institutions are closed on this day. Since 2007, October 2nd has also been honored as the International Day of Non-Violence by United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), an idea first proposed by 2003 Nobel Peace Laureate Shirin Ebadi of Iran.
The day compares most closely to Martin Luther King Day in the United States. Here, Deloitte USI offices are closed and we will be out on the town to celebrate with the locals!
SOURCE: http://festivals.indobase.com/gandhi-jayanti/
