Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti in India is a national holiday celebrated every year on October 2nd to mark the birth anniversary of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, popularly known as Mahatma Gandhi. He was a key figure in India's struggle for independence from British rule and is renowned worldwide for his philosophy of non-violent civil disobedience.

History:

• Birth: Mahatma Gandhi was born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, Gujarat.
• Role in Independence: He played a significant role in mobilizing the Indian populace against colonial rule through peaceful protests and civil disobedience movements.
• Legacy: His birthday was declared as 'Gandhi Jayanti', a national festival to honor his contributions and legacy.

Traditions:

• Prayer Services: Prayer meetings are held at Raj Ghat, Gandhi's memorial in New Delhi, and at various other memorials across the country.
• Tributes: Leaders and citizens pay homage to statues of Gandhi by offering flowers and garlands.
• Singing Bhajans: Devotional songs (bhajans) favored by Gandhi, such as "Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram," are sung at various events.
• School Activities: Educational institutions organize events highlighting the principles and teachings of Gandhi. Essay competitions, plays, and elocution contests are common.
• Spinning Charkha: To commemorate Gandhi's promotion of 'Swadeshi' (self-sufficiency), some people spin the charkha (spinning wheel) which symbolizes the Indian struggle for independence.

What People Do:

• Public Life: As a national holiday, schools, offices, banks, and most businesses remain closed. National flags are displayed prominently.
• Social Initiatives: People engage in community service or participate in cleanliness drives to honor Gandhi's emphasis on sanitation and community health.
• Promotion of Peace: Various organizations conduct seminars and public discussions on topics related to peace, non-violence, and Gandhian philosophy.

The day serves as a reminder of Gandhi's contribution to Indian freedom and his enduring teachings on non-violence and peace.