Gandhi Jayanti 2025 is being celebrated today, 2 October, marking the birth anniversary of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, fondly called Mahatma Gandhi.
Known as the Father of the Nation in India, Gandhi is remembered worldwide for his principles of non-violence, truth, and civil disobedience.
While many know about his leadership in India’s freedom struggle, there are several lesser-known aspects of his life that continue to inspire generations.
1. Gandhi Was a Vegetarian by Choice and Conviction
Mahatma Gandhi was a strict vegetarian from childhood, influenced by his mother’s religious beliefs. However, his choice was more than dietary, it was a commitment to non-violence and respect for all living beings. He often experimented with different plant-based diets to maintain health and stamina during his campaigns.
2. He Practised Simple Living Long Before It Became Popular
Gandhi’s philosophy of simplicity was not just about clothes or food; it extended to his daily routine, work, and even politics. He often wore a simple khadi dhoti and lived in ashrams, demonstrating that leadership could be humble yet powerful.
3. Gandhi Was Once Thrown Off a Train
One lesser-known fact is that Gandhi faced racial discrimination while in South Africa. In 1893, he was asked to leave a first-class train compartment despite holding a valid ticket. This incident became a turning point, inspiring his lifelong fight against injustice.
4. He Was a Prolific Letter Writer
Gandhi wrote thousands of letters to political leaders, friends, and even strangers. His letters reveal a deeply reflective mind and a commitment to dialogue, understanding, and peaceful negotiation. Many of these letters are preserved in archives around the world.
5. Gandhi Loved Spinning the Charkha
The spinning wheel, or charkha, was more than a symbol of self-reliance. Gandhi believed that spinning khadi empowered rural India, promoted economic independence, and encouraged self-discipline. He spent hours each day at the charkha, even while travelling or attending political meetings.
6. He Observed Regular Fasts for Social Causes
Gandhi used fasting as a tool for social reform and political protest. His hunger strikes were aimed at promoting communal harmony, fighting injustice, and pressuring authorities to act ethically. These fasts were never for personal gain but always for public welfare.
7. Gandhi Practised Law Before Activism
Before becoming a political leader, Gandhi studied law in London and practised as a barrister in South Africa. His legal background helped him organise campaigns, draft petitions, and challenge unjust laws effectively.
8. He Had a Deep Respect for Nature
Gandhi emphasised living in harmony with nature. He advocated for organic farming, water conservation, and sustainable living, decades before these became global concerns.
9. Gandhi Wrote His Autobiography in Prison
His autobiography, “The Story of My Experiments with Truth”, was written while he was imprisoned during the freedom struggle. The book reflects his journey of self-discovery, ethical dilemmas, and spiritual growth, making it a timeless guide to life.
10. He Inspired Global Leaders
Mahatma Gandhi’s principles influenced world leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela, and Aung San Suu Kyi. His emphasis on non-violent resistance continues to shape civil rights movements globally.
Celebrating Gandhi Jayanti Today
On Gandhi Jayanti 2025, schools, government institutions, and citizens across India pay tribute by remembering his ideals. In addition to prayers and cultural programmes, cleanliness drives and discussions on truth and non-violence are conducted to keep his vision alive.
Known as the Father of the Nation in India, Gandhi is remembered worldwide for his principles of non-violence, truth, and civil disobedience.
While many know about his leadership in India’s freedom struggle, there are several lesser-known aspects of his life that continue to inspire generations.
1. Gandhi Was a Vegetarian by Choice and Conviction
Mahatma Gandhi was a strict vegetarian from childhood, influenced by his mother’s religious beliefs. However, his choice was more than dietary, it was a commitment to non-violence and respect for all living beings. He often experimented with different plant-based diets to maintain health and stamina during his campaigns.
2. He Practised Simple Living Long Before It Became Popular
Gandhi’s philosophy of simplicity was not just about clothes or food; it extended to his daily routine, work, and even politics. He often wore a simple khadi dhoti and lived in ashrams, demonstrating that leadership could be humble yet powerful.
3. Gandhi Was Once Thrown Off a Train
One lesser-known fact is that Gandhi faced racial discrimination while in South Africa. In 1893, he was asked to leave a first-class train compartment despite holding a valid ticket. This incident became a turning point, inspiring his lifelong fight against injustice.
4. He Was a Prolific Letter Writer
Gandhi wrote thousands of letters to political leaders, friends, and even strangers. His letters reveal a deeply reflective mind and a commitment to dialogue, understanding, and peaceful negotiation. Many of these letters are preserved in archives around the world.
5. Gandhi Loved Spinning the Charkha
The spinning wheel, or charkha, was more than a symbol of self-reliance. Gandhi believed that spinning khadi empowered rural India, promoted economic independence, and encouraged self-discipline. He spent hours each day at the charkha, even while travelling or attending political meetings.
6. He Observed Regular Fasts for Social Causes
Gandhi used fasting as a tool for social reform and political protest. His hunger strikes were aimed at promoting communal harmony, fighting injustice, and pressuring authorities to act ethically. These fasts were never for personal gain but always for public welfare.
7. Gandhi Practised Law Before Activism
Before becoming a political leader, Gandhi studied law in London and practised as a barrister in South Africa. His legal background helped him organise campaigns, draft petitions, and challenge unjust laws effectively.
8. He Had a Deep Respect for Nature
Gandhi emphasised living in harmony with nature. He advocated for organic farming, water conservation, and sustainable living, decades before these became global concerns.
9. Gandhi Wrote His Autobiography in Prison
His autobiography, “The Story of My Experiments with Truth”, was written while he was imprisoned during the freedom struggle. The book reflects his journey of self-discovery, ethical dilemmas, and spiritual growth, making it a timeless guide to life.
10. He Inspired Global Leaders
Mahatma Gandhi’s principles influenced world leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela, and Aung San Suu Kyi. His emphasis on non-violent resistance continues to shape civil rights movements globally.
Celebrating Gandhi Jayanti Today
On Gandhi Jayanti 2025, schools, government institutions, and citizens across India pay tribute by remembering his ideals. In addition to prayers and cultural programmes, cleanliness drives and discussions on truth and non-violence are conducted to keep his vision alive.
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