When is Gandhi Jayanti 2025? Date, History and Significance

Gandhi Jayanti 2025: Date, History, Significance

Gandhi Jayanti, celebrated every year on October 2, marks the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation. In 2025, Gandhi Jayanti will be celebrated on Thursday, October 2, and will be observed across India and by Indian communities worldwide with prayers, cultural programmes, and tributes to Gandhi’s philosophy of truth and non-violence.

History of Gandhi Jayanti

Mahatma Gandhi was born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, Gujarat. His leadership in India’s freedom struggle through non-violent civil disobedience movements made him a global symbol of peace and justice. The Government of India officially declared October 2 as a national holiday in 1949, two years after independence.

ALSO READ: Gandhi Jayanti 2025 Wishes: 50+ Quotes, Images, WhatsApp and Instagram Status

In 2007, the United Nations also adopted October 2 as the International Day of Non-Violence, honouring Gandhi’s enduring legacy and principles.

ALSO READ: From Champaran Satyagraha to Quit India - Key Freedom Movements by Mahatma Gandhi

Significance of Gandhi Jayanti

Gandhi Jayanti is more than just a national holiday. It is a reminder of the values Gandhi stood for—peaceful resistance, simplicity, and harmony among communities. Across India, schools, colleges, and government institutions organise debates, essay competitions, and cultural programmes on his teachings. Statues of Gandhi are garlanded, and leaders pay homage at Raj Ghat in New Delhi, where he was cremated in 1948.

For millions, the day serves as an opportunity to reflect on Gandhi’s timeless ideals in a modern world still grappling with violence and inequality.

ALSO READ: Top 10 Mahatma Gandhi Quotes That Inspire Youth in 2025

Gandhi Jayanti FAQs1. When is Gandhi Jayanti celebrated in 2025?
Gandhi Jayanti will be celebrated on Thursday, October 2, 2025, marking the 156th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

2. Why is Gandhi Jayanti important?
The day honours Mahatma Gandhi’s contribution to India’s freedom struggle and his philosophy of non-violence and truth, which continue to inspire movements worldwide.

3. Is Gandhi Jayanti a public holiday?
Yes, Gandhi Jayanti is a national holiday in India. Government offices, schools, and most businesses remain closed, though cultural and educational programmes are widely organised.

4. How is Gandhi Jayanti observed?
People pay homage at Raj Ghat in New Delhi, where Gandhi was cremated. Across the country, prayer services, cultural programmes, cleanliness drives, and essay or speech competitions are held.

5. What is the global significance of Gandhi Jayanti?
In 2007, the United Nations declared October 2 as the International Day of Non-Violence, making Gandhi Jayanti a day of worldwide relevance, reminding nations to embrace peace over conflict.