Gandhi Jayanti

 "Lessons in Nonviolence and Truth"

"Mahatma Gandhi, often revered as the Father of the Nation, graced the world with his presence on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, a town now nestled in the heart of Gujarat, India. This year, we celebrate his 154th birth anniversary, an occasion of profound significance. Gandhi Jayanti, observed annually throughout India, serves as a solemn remembrance of the man whose unwavering dedication played a monumental role in India's quest for independence. Beyond his pivotal role in the struggle for freedom, this day also pays homage to his profound philosophies, which continue to inspire and guide lives to this day.

Gandhi's exceptional legacy lies not only in his pivotal role in India's struggle for independence but in the profound impact of his philosophy of non-violence (Satyagraha) and harmlessness (Ahimsa). His life symbolized an unwavering commitment to the pursuit of freedom and justice. Through peaceful resistance, he orchestrated several successful movements that challenged British colonial rule. However, this extraordinary journey met a tragic end on January 30, 1948, when he was assassinated by Nathuram Godse. Nevertheless, Mahatma Gandhi's enduring legacy continues to inspire generations as a symbol of resilience, nonviolence, and an unwavering dedication to the pursuit of justice and freedom.

GANDHI BEFORE INDIA:- Gandhi Before India by historian Ramachandra Guha is considered to be another great book which tells you about the life and times of Gandhi. Published on his birth anniversary in 2013, the book explores his journey as a lawyer in South Africa where he witnessed discrimination and racism that people from the communities of colour faced.

some fact about baapu ji :-

1. Early Struggles in South Africa: Before becoming a prominent figure in India's independence movement, Gandhi lived in South Africa for over two decades. He fought against racial discrimination there and developed his philosophy of nonviolent resistance, which he later applied to the Indian independence movement.
2. Champion of Simplicity: Gandhi was known for his simple and austere lifestyle. He wore a loincloth, spun his own cloth (khadi), and advocated for self-sufficiency and sustainability. His commitment to simplicity is an inspiring aspect of his life.
3. Salt March: One of the most iconic events in India's struggle for independence was the Salt March in 1930. Gandhi and a group of followers marched over 240 miles to the Arabian Sea to protest the British monopoly on salt. This peaceful protest had a significant impact on India's fight for freedom.
4. Fasting as a Political Weapon: Gandhi often used fasting as a tool of nonviolent resistance. He undertook numerous hunger strikes to protest injustice and inequality, and his commitment to fasting for a cause gained international attention.
5. Interfaith Harmony: Gandhi was an advocate for religious tolerance and unity. He believed in the importance of respecting all religions and promoted interfaith dialogue. His principles of nonviolence and harmony continue to inspire movements for peace and unity today.
6. Practical Idealism: Gandhi's philosophy of "Satyagraha" emphasized the power of truth and nonviolence. He believed in the transformational impact of living one's beliefs and principles, even in the face of adversity.
7. Vegetarianism: Gandhi was a strict vegetarian throughout his life and believed in the ethical and environmental reasons for this choice. His vegetarianism was in line with his principle of nonviolence, as he considered killing animals for food a form of violence.
8. International Influence: Gandhi's nonviolent methods inspired civil rights movements and leaders around the world, including Martin Luther King Jr. in the United States and Nelson Mandela in South Africa.
9. Nomination for Nobel Peace Prize: Despite his significant contributions to peace and nonviolence, Gandhi never received the Nobel Peace Prize, although he was nominated multiple times. He was nominated five times, but never won.
10. Assassination and Legacy: Sadly, Gandhi was assassinated by a Hindu nationalist on January 30, 1948. However, his legacy lives on as an enduring symbol of peace, nonviolence, and the struggle for justice and freedom.

“An ounce of patience is worth more than a tonne of preaching.”