| Type: | National |
| Observedby: | India |
| Date: | 2 October |
| Scheduling: | same day each year |
| Observances: | Community, historical celebration |
| Significance: | Honours Mahatma Gandhi's role in Indian Independence. |
| Relatedto: | International Day of Non-Violence Republic Day Independence Day |
| Holiday Name: | Gandhi Jayanti |
| Frequency: | Annual |
Gandhi Jayanti is an event celebrated in India to mark the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi. It is celebrated annually on 2 October, and is one of the three national holidays in India. The United Nations celebrates the day as International Day of Non-Violence. Called the "Father of The Nation" by Subhas Chandra Bose, Gandhi espoused one of the most well known philosophies of nonviolent resistance.[1]
Gandhi Jayanti is celebrated yearly on 2 October.[2] and is observed in all of India's states and territories. It is marked by prayer services and tributes across India, including at Gandhi's memorial, Raj Ghat, in New Delhi where he was cremated. Popular activities include prayer meetings, commemorative ceremonies in different cities by colleges, local government institutions and socio-political institutions. On this day awards are granted for projects in schools and the community encouraging a nonviolent way of life as well as celebrating Gandhi's effort in the Indian independence movement.[3] Gandhi's favourite bhajan (Hindu devotional song), Raghupati Raghava Raja Ram, is usually sung in his memory.[4] Statues of Mahatma Gandhi throughout the country are decorated with flowers and garlands, and some people avoid drinking alcohol or eating meat on the day. Public buildings, banks and post offices are closed.[5] On the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti 2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi started the Swachh Bharat Mission. Its second phase started on Gandhi Jayanti 2021.[6]