Simple man with white clothes on his body changed the history of our country (India). Today we know him as the symbol of peace, a man who gave a new direction to India. Today we all know him as “Mahatma Gandhi”. He started the 'Satyagraha' movement for the Indian freedom struggle.

Second October in India is celebrated as “Gandhi Jayanti” to mark the occasion of the birthday of Mohandas Gandhi, the "Father of the Nation". He was born on October 2, 1869. His original name was Mohandas Karam  chand  Gandhi, but he is  better known as 'Bapu', Gandhiji or Father of the Nation. Gandhiji, was born on the October 2nd 1869, in Porbander, Gujarat.

He believed in living a simple life like Swadeshi. Through his sheer dedication and self-belief, Gandhi freed India from (British Rule). He proved to the world that freedom can be achieved through the path of non-violence - a true symbol of peace and truth.

On this occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, the President and Prime Minister, along with other eminent political leaders, pay homage at Raj Ghat, the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi where he was cremated.

Gandhi Jayanti is a national holiday and hence, all offices and schools, throughout the country, remain closed. Verses and prayers are read out from the holy books of all the religions. Gandhi's favorite song, ‘Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram’, is invariably sung at all the meetings associated with him.

Do you Know?

• 1932: Fasted to protest the treatment of people who belonged to no Hindu caste, the Harijans or Untouchables
• 1942: Launched Quit India Movement against British Raj.
• January 30, 1948:  Death , Assassinated by Nathuram Godse, a Hindu extremist.

“Whatever you do may be insignificant, but it is very important that you do it.”- Gandhi.