Chapter I · Learn about Gandhiji
Know the man.
Know the why.
Dates, history, ideas and places, in one place.
When is Gandhi Jayanti 2026?
Gandhi Jayanti 2026 falls on Friday, 2 October, marking the 157th birth anniversary of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi. The date is fixed every year; only the weekday changes.
- DateFriday, 2 October 2026
- Born2 October 1869, Porbandar, Gujarat
- StatusNational holiday: offices, banks and schools closed
- Global recognitionUN International Day of Non-Violence since 2007
Gandhi Jayanti dates, 2026 to 2030
| Year | Date | Day | Birth anniversary |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 2 October 2026 | Friday | 157th |
| 2027 | 2 October 2027 | Saturday | 158th |
| 2028 | 2 October 2028 | Monday | 159th |
| 2029 | 2 October 2029 | Tuesday | 160th |
| 2030 | 2 October 2030 | Wednesday | 161st |
History: the life of Mahatma Gandhi
Key moments from birth to the UN's world day for non-violence.
- 1869
Born in Porbandar
Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi is born on 2 October 1869 in Porbandar, in present-day Gujarat, to Karamchand Gandhi and Putlibai.
- 1888–91
Studies law in London
He trains as a barrister in London, is called to the bar in 1891 and returns to India.
- 1893
South Africa changes him
He travels to South Africa for legal work. Being thrown off a train compartment at Pietermaritzburg for his skin colour opens his eyes to racial injustice.
- 1906
First Satyagraha
In South Africa he launches his first large campaign of non-violent resistance, the method he would later call Satyagraha.
- 1915
Returns to India
After about two decades in South Africa, Gandhi returns to India and begins travelling the country to understand its people.
- 1917
Champaran and Sabarmati
He leads the Champaran Satyagraha for indigo farmers in Bihar and founds the Sabarmati Ashram near Ahmedabad.
- 1919
Rowlatt Satyagraha
He launches a nationwide protest against the Rowlatt Act, planning it from Mani Bhavan in Mumbai.
- 1920–22
Non-Cooperation Movement
Indians boycott British schools, courts, cloth and titles. Gandhi promotes khadi and the charkha as symbols of self-reliance.
- 1930
The Dandi Salt March
From 12 March to 6 April, Gandhi walks about 390 km (240 miles) from Sabarmati to Dandi to break the salt tax, sparking the Civil Disobedience Movement.
- 1931
Gandhi–Irwin Pact
He agrees a truce with the Viceroy and travels to London for the Second Round Table Conference.
- 1942
Quit India, Do or Die
On 8 August, at Gowalia Tank Maidan in Mumbai, he gives the call of "Do or Die" and the Quit India Movement begins.
- 1947
Independence
India becomes free on 15 August. Gandhi spends the days working for peace and communal harmony instead of joining the celebrations.
- 1948
30 January
Gandhi is assassinated in Delhi. The day is remembered every year as Martyrs' Day (Shaheed Diwas).
- 2007
A world day for non-violence
The UN General Assembly declares 2 October the International Day of Non-Violence.
Significance: why we celebrate Gandhi Jayanti
Gandhi Jayanti honours Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, known across India as Bapu, or the Father of the Nation, for leading the country's freedom struggle through Satya (truth) and Ahimsa (non-violence) rather than force. His methods, including the Non-Cooperation Movement, the Dandi Salt March and the Quit India Movement, showed that peaceful, disciplined resistance could overturn nearly two centuries of colonial rule.
Why it still matters
Gandhi's ideas are not only history lessons. Truth, respect for every kind of work, cleanliness, and solving conflicts without violence are habits students can practise in class and at home. The Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, launched on 2 October 2014, was inspired by his message of cleanliness.
A global legacy
Leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela drew on Gandhian ideas of non-violent resistance. In 2007 the UN General Assembly declared 2 October the International Day of Non-Violence to spread that message through education and public awareness.
How the day is observed
The President and Prime Minister pay tribute at Raj Ghat in Delhi, prayer meetings include Gandhi's favourite bhajans, and schools hold speeches, essays, cleanliness drives and cultural programmes.
Also born on 2 October
Lal Bahadur Shastri, India's second Prime Minister, was born on 2 October 1904. He is remembered for the slogan "Jai Jawan Jai Kisan", and many people also remember him on this day.
Gandhi's principles in simple words
Gandhi's three wise monkeys
A small figure of three monkeys is popularly associated with Gandhi. It carries a simple lesson for children.
Places to visit and books to read
Gandhi sites in Maharashtra and across India.
Kirti Mandir, Porbandar
GujaratMemorial at his birthplace in Porbandar.
Sabarmati Ashram, Ahmedabad
GujaratHis home for years and the starting point of the Dandi March.
Mani Bhavan, Mumbai
MaharashtraHis Mumbai base from 1917 to 1934, now a museum and library.
August Kranti Maidan, Mumbai
MaharashtraAlso called Gowalia Tank Maidan, where the Quit India call was made in 1942.
Aga Khan Palace, Pune
MaharashtraGandhi was detained here from 1942 to 1944.
Sevagram Ashram, Wardha
MaharashtraThe ashram where he lived from 1936 and worked on village reconstruction.
Raj Ghat, Delhi
DelhiMemorial at the place of his cremation.
Gandhi Smriti, Delhi
DelhiThe former Birla House, where he spent his last days.
Check opening days and timings before you visit. For Mumbai, see the official Mani Bhavan website.
Books to read
The Story of My Experiments with Truth
Gandhi's autobiography, a good place to start.
Hind Swaraj
His 1909 essay on freedom and civilisation.
The Collected Works of Mahatma Gandhi
A huge archive, available free on the Gandhi Heritage Portal.
Chapter II · Read, speak and share
Words worth
speaking.
Speeches, essays, stories, poems, quotes and slogans, in English, Hindi and Marathi.
Essays, speeches and 10 lines in English, Hindi and Marathi
Choose a language, then a format. Copy, listen or print.
10 lines on Gandhi Jayanti
- Gandhi Jayanti is celebrated every year on 2nd October across India.
- It marks the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation.
- Mahatma Gandhi was born on 2 October 1869 in Porbandar, Gujarat.
- He is fondly known as "Bapu" by people across the country.
- Gandhiji led India's freedom struggle through the path of truth and non-violence.
- His two guiding principles were Satya (truth) and Ahimsa (non-violence).
- Gandhi Jayanti is one of India's three national holidays.
- Schools, colleges and government offices remain closed on this day.
- The United Nations celebrates 2nd October as the International Day of Non-Violence.
- On this day, we remember Gandhiji's teachings and pledge to live by his values.
Short essay on Gandhi Jayanti (150 words)
Gandhi Jayanti is celebrated on 2nd October every year to mark the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, fondly known as Bapu. Born in Porbandar, Gujarat, in 1869, Gandhiji grew up to become one of the greatest leaders in India's freedom struggle. Unlike other movements of his time, Gandhiji chose the path of truth (Satya) and non-violence (Ahimsa) to fight against British rule. His methods, such as the Salt March and the Quit India Movement, inspired millions of Indians to join the fight for freedom without picking up a single weapon. Today, Gandhi Jayanti is observed as one of India's three national holidays, alongside Independence Day and Republic Day. The United Nations also honours this day as the International Day of Non-Violence. Schools across the country mark the occasion with speeches, essays, cleanliness drives and cultural programmes, keeping Gandhiji's values of simplicity, honesty and compassion alive for every new generation of students.
Long essay on Gandhi Jayanti (450 words)
Every year on 2nd October, India observes Gandhi Jayanti to honour Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, the man the nation reveres as the Father of the Nation and fondly calls Bapu. Born on 2 October 1869 in the coastal town of Porbandar, Gujarat, Gandhiji went on to lead one of the most remarkable freedom movements in world history — one fought not with weapons, but with truth and moral courage.
Gandhiji's early years as a lawyer in South Africa proved to be a turning point. Faced with racial discrimination, he developed and first practised Satyagraha, or "insistence on truth," a form of non-violent civil resistance. This experience shaped the philosophy he would carry back to India in 1915 and use to challenge nearly two centuries of British colonial rule.
Over the following decades, Gandhiji led some of the defining movements of India's freedom struggle. The Non-Cooperation Movement urged Indians to boycott British institutions and goods. The Dandi Salt March of 1930 saw him walk nearly 390 kilometres to the sea to defy the British salt tax, turning a simple act into a powerful symbol of resistance. The Quit India Movement of 1942 became the final, decisive call for the British to leave. Through each of these, Gandhiji held firm to two guiding principles — Satya (truth) and Ahimsa (non-violence) — proving that peaceful resistance could be more powerful than force.
Beyond politics, Gandhiji championed values that remain deeply relevant today: self-reliance (Swadeshi), dignity of labour, communal harmony and simple living. He believed true freedom was not just political independence but also the moral and social upliftment of every citizen, particularly the poorest and most marginalised. His emphasis on cleanliness and sanitation continues to inspire national initiatives such as the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission), launched by the Government of India in 2014 in his memory.
Gandhiji's assassination on 30 January 1948 was a tragedy that shook the world, but his ideas did not die with him. Leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela drew directly from his philosophy of non-violent resistance in their own struggles for justice. In recognition of his global influence, the United Nations designated 2nd October as the International Day of Non-Violence in 2007.
For students, Gandhi Jayanti is more than a holiday — it is an invitation to reflect on how truth, patience and non-violence can resolve even the most difficult conflicts. Whether through a class assembly speech, an essay, or a simple act of kindness, every student can carry forward a small part of Bapu's dream: an India, and a world, built on truth, compassion and peace.
Short speech for school assembly (1 to 2 minutes)
Good morning respected Principal, teachers and my dear friends.
Today we have gathered here to celebrate Gandhi Jayanti, the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, whom we lovingly call Bapu. He was born on 2nd October 1869 in Porbandar, Gujarat, and is known as the Father of our Nation.
Bapu believed in two simple but powerful ideas — truth and non-violence. He showed the whole world that we can fight for what is right without fighting with fists or weapons. Because of his courage and patience, India became a free country in 1947.
On this special day, let us promise to always speak the truth, be kind to everyone around us, and keep our surroundings clean — just like Bapu wanted.
Thank you, and Jai Hind!
Long speech for school assembly (4 to 5 minutes)
Respected Principal, teachers, and my dear friends,
A very good morning to all of you. Today, on 2nd October, we have gathered to celebrate Gandhi Jayanti, the birth anniversary of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi — a man the world remembers not for the battles he won with weapons, but for the ones he won with truth, patience, and an unshakeable belief in non-violence.
Mahatma Gandhi was born on 2nd October 1869 in Porbandar, Gujarat. He studied law in London and began his career in South Africa, where he first encountered the harsh realities of racial discrimination. It was there that he developed Satyagraha — the idea that peaceful, truthful resistance could overcome even the most powerful injustice. He carried this philosophy back to India in 1915 and used it to lead our nation's struggle for independence.
We remember him for movements that changed the course of history: the Non-Cooperation Movement, the historic Dandi Salt March, and the Quit India Movement. Each of these was built on the same foundation — Satya, or truth, and Ahimsa, or non-violence. At a time when the world believed that freedom could only be won through force, Gandhiji proved that courage and conviction could be far more powerful than any weapon.
But Gandhiji's vision went far beyond political freedom. He dreamed of a nation built on self-reliance, cleanliness, communal harmony, and respect for every kind of work and every human being, regardless of their background. His emphasis on cleanliness continues to inspire us today through national movements like the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.
Gandhiji's influence was not limited to India. Leaders across the world, from Martin Luther King Jr. in America to Nelson Mandela in South Africa, drew inspiration from his philosophy of non-violent resistance in their own fights for justice and equality. In 2007, the United Nations honoured his global legacy by declaring 2nd October as the International Day of Non-Violence.
As students, we may not face the same struggles that Gandhiji did, but his values are just as important today. In a world that often rewards anger and impatience, Gandhiji's life teaches us that truth, discipline, and compassion are far stronger tools. Whether it is standing up against bullying without resorting to violence, keeping our classrooms and campus clean, or simply being honest even when it is difficult — we can all carry forward a piece of Bapu's dream in our everyday lives.
Let us take a pledge today: to speak the truth, to treat everyone with kindness and respect, and to build a more peaceful world — one small action at a time.
Jai Hind, and thank you.
गांधी जयंती पर 10 पंक्तियाँ
- गांधी जयंती हर वर्ष 2 अक्टूबर को मनाई जाती है।
- इस दिन राष्ट्रपिता महात्मा गांधी का जन्मदिन होता है।
- गांधीजी का जन्म 2 अक्टूबर 1869 को गुजरात के पोरबंदर में हुआ था।
- उनका पूरा नाम मोहनदास करमचंद गांधी था।
- लोग उन्हें प्यार से "बापू" कहकर पुकारते हैं।
- उन्होंने सत्य और अहिंसा के रास्ते पर चलकर देश को आज़ादी दिलाने में अहम भूमिका निभाई।
- गांधी जयंती भारत के तीन राष्ट्रीय अवकाशों में से एक है।
- इस दिन स्कूल, कॉलेज और सरकारी दफ़्तर बंद रहते हैं।
- संयुक्त राष्ट्र इस दिन को "अंतर्राष्ट्रीय अहिंसा दिवस" के रूप में मनाता है।
- हमें इस दिन गांधीजी की सीख अपनाने का संकल्प लेना चाहिए।
गांधी जयंती पर छोटा निबंध
गांधी जयंती हर साल 2 अक्टूबर को महात्मा गांधी के जन्मदिन पर मनाई जाती है। गांधीजी का जन्म 1869 में गुजरात के पोरबंदर में हुआ था। उन्हें प्यार से 'बापू' और 'राष्ट्रपिता' कहा जाता है। उन्होंने अंग्रेज़ों के विरुद्ध लड़ाई में हथियार नहीं उठाए। सत्य और अहिंसा उनके सबसे बड़े हथियार थे। दांडी मार्च और भारत छोड़ो आंदोलन जैसे आंदोलनों ने लाखों भारतीयों को आज़ादी की लड़ाई से जोड़ा। गांधीजी सादा जीवन, स्वच्छता और सबके साथ प्रेम से रहने की सीख देते थे। आज गांधी जयंती पर स्कूलों में भाषण, निबंध, सफ़ाई अभियान और सांस्कृतिक कार्यक्रम होते हैं। यह दिन हमें याद दिलाता है कि सच्चाई और शांति से बड़ी कोई ताक़त नहीं है।
गांधी जयंती पर निबंध
हर वर्ष 2 अक्टूबर को पूरा देश गांधी जयंती मनाता है। यह दिन मोहनदास करमचंद गांधी के जन्मदिन का है, जिन्हें हम आदर से महात्मा गांधी, बापू और राष्ट्रपिता कहते हैं। उनका जन्म 2 अक्टूबर 1869 को गुजरात के पोरबंदर में हुआ था।
गांधीजी ने वकालत की पढ़ाई लंदन में की और कुछ समय दक्षिण अफ़्रीका में रहे। वहाँ रंगभेद का अन्याय देखकर उन्होंने सत्याग्रह का मार्ग अपनाया, यानी बिना हिंसा किए सच के लिए डटे रहना। 1915 में वे भारत लौटे और स्वतंत्रता आंदोलन की अगुवाई करने लगे।
असहयोग आंदोलन, 1930 की दांडी यात्रा और 1942 का भारत छोड़ो आंदोलन उनके नेतृत्व की पहचान बने। दांडी यात्रा में उन्होंने नमक कानून तोड़ने के लिए लगभग 390 किलोमीटर पैदल चलकर समुद्र तट तक की यात्रा की। इन सभी आंदोलनों की नींव सत्य और अहिंसा पर टिकी थी।
गांधीजी केवल राजनीतिक आज़ादी नहीं, बल्कि हर नागरिक की भलाई चाहते थे। वे स्वदेशी, श्रम की गरिमा, स्वच्छता, आपसी भाईचारे और सादे जीवन पर ज़ोर देते थे। उनकी स्वच्छता की सीख से प्रेरित होकर 2014 में स्वच्छ भारत अभियान शुरू किया गया।
30 जनवरी 1948 को उनकी हत्या कर दी गई, पर उनके विचार आज भी जीवित हैं। मार्टिन लूथर किंग जूनियर और नेल्सन मंडेला जैसे नेताओं ने भी उनसे प्रेरणा ली। 2007 में संयुक्त राष्ट्र ने 2 अक्टूबर को 'अंतर्राष्ट्रीय अहिंसा दिवस' घोषित किया।
विद्यार्थियों के लिए गांधी जयंती केवल छुट्टी का दिन नहीं है। यह सच बोलने, दूसरों का सम्मान करने और अपने आसपास को साफ़ रखने का संकल्प लेने का अवसर है। यदि हम इन छोटी बातों को अपनाएँ, तो बापू का सपना सच हो सकता है।
गांधी जयंती पर छोटा भाषण
आदरणीय प्रधानाचार्य जी, शिक्षकगण और मेरे प्यारे साथियों, सुप्रभात।
आज हम सब गांधी जयंती मनाने के लिए यहाँ इकट्ठा हुए हैं। आज ही के दिन, 2 अक्टूबर 1869 को, पोरबंदर में महात्मा गांधी का जन्म हुआ था। हम उन्हें प्यार से बापू कहते हैं।
बापू ने हमें सिखाया कि सच बोलना और दूसरों को कष्ट न देना सबसे बड़ी ताक़त है। उनके सत्य और अहिंसा के रास्ते से हमारा देश 1947 में आज़ाद हुआ।
आइए, आज हम संकल्प लें कि हम हमेशा सच बोलेंगे, सबके साथ प्रेम से रहेंगे और अपने विद्यालय व आसपास को साफ़ रखेंगे।
धन्यवाद। जय हिंद!
गांधी जयंती पर भाषण
आदरणीय प्रधानाचार्य जी, सम्मानित शिक्षकगण और मेरे प्रिय साथियों, सभी को सुप्रभात।
आज 2 अक्टूबर है, गांधी जयंती। आज हम उस महापुरुष को याद कर रहे हैं जिन्होंने हथियारों से नहीं, बल्कि सच, धैर्य और अहिंसा से दुनिया का दिल जीता।
मोहनदास करमचंद गांधी का जन्म 2 अक्टूबर 1869 को पोरबंदर, गुजरात में हुआ। दक्षिण अफ़्रीका में उन्होंने अन्याय के विरुद्ध सत्याग्रह का प्रयोग किया और 1915 में भारत लौटकर स्वतंत्रता संग्राम की अगुवाई की।
असहयोग आंदोलन, दांडी यात्रा और भारत छोड़ो आंदोलन, इन सभी की नींव सत्य और अहिंसा थी। जब दुनिया मानती थी कि आज़ादी केवल ताक़त से मिलती है, तब गांधीजी ने दिखाया कि दृढ़ संकल्प किसी भी हथियार से बड़ा होता है।
लेकिन उनका सपना केवल आज़ादी तक सीमित नहीं था। वे स्वावलंबन, स्वच्छता, भाईचारे और हर काम के सम्मान वाले भारत की कल्पना करते थे। उनकी इसी सोच से आज स्वच्छ भारत अभियान को प्रेरणा मिलती है।
दुनिया के अनेक नेताओं ने उनसे प्रेरणा ली और 2007 में संयुक्त राष्ट्र ने उनके जन्मदिन को अंतर्राष्ट्रीय अहिंसा दिवस घोषित किया।
प्रिय विद्यार्थियो, हमें भी अपने जीवन में गांधीजी की सीख उतारनी चाहिए। किसी से झगड़ा हो तो हम शांति से बात करें, सच बोलने से न डरें और अपनी कक्षा व विद्यालय को साफ़ रखें।
आइए, आज हम प्रण लें कि सच्चाई, दया और शांति के रास्ते पर चलेंगे।
जय हिंद, धन्यवाद।
गांधी जयंतीवर 10 ओळी
- गांधी जयंती दरवर्षी 2 ऑक्टोबर रोजी साजरी केली जाते.
- या दिवशी राष्ट्रपिता महात्मा गांधी यांचा जन्मदिवस असतो.
- गांधीजींचा जन्म 2 ऑक्टोबर 1869 रोजी गुजरातमधील पोरबंदर येथे झाला.
- त्यांचे पूर्ण नाव मोहनदास करमचंद गांधी होते.
- लोक त्यांना प्रेमाने "बापू" म्हणतात.
- सत्य आणि अहिंसेच्या मार्गाने त्यांनी भारताच्या स्वातंत्र्यलढ्याचे नेतृत्व केले.
- गांधी जयंती हा भारतातील तीन राष्ट्रीय सुट्ट्यांपैकी एक आहे.
- या दिवशी शाळा, महाविद्यालये आणि सरकारी कार्यालये बंद असतात.
- संयुक्त राष्ट्रे या दिवसाला "आंतरराष्ट्रीय अहिंसा दिन" म्हणून साजरा करतात.
- गांधीजींच्या शिकवणुकीनुसार वागण्याचा आपण संकल्प करूया.
गांधी जयंतीवर छोटा निबंध
गांधी जयंती दरवर्षी 2 ऑक्टोबर रोजी महात्मा गांधी यांच्या जन्मदिनानिमित्त साजरी केली जाते. गांधीजींचा जन्म 1869 मध्ये गुजरातमधील पोरबंदर येथे झाला. त्यांना प्रेमाने 'बापू' आणि 'राष्ट्रपिता' म्हणतात. इंग्रजांविरुद्धच्या लढ्यात त्यांनी शस्त्र उचलले नाही. सत्य आणि अहिंसा हीच त्यांची सर्वात मोठी शस्त्रे होती. दांडी यात्रा आणि 'चले जाव' चळवळीमुळे लाखो भारतीय स्वातंत्र्यलढ्यात सहभागी झाले. गांधीजी साधी राहणी, स्वच्छता आणि सर्वांशी प्रेमाने वागण्याची शिकवण देत. आजच्या दिवशी शाळांमध्ये भाषणे, निबंध स्पर्धा, स्वच्छता मोहीम आणि सांस्कृतिक कार्यक्रम होतात. सत्य आणि शांततेपेक्षा मोठी ताकद नाही, याची आठवण हा दिवस आपल्याला करून देतो.
गांधी जयंती – निबंध
दरवर्षी 2 ऑक्टोबर रोजी संपूर्ण देश गांधी जयंती साजरी करतो. हा दिवस मोहनदास करमचंद गांधी यांचा जन्मदिवस आहे. आपण त्यांना आदराने महात्मा गांधी, बापू आणि राष्ट्रपिता म्हणतो. त्यांचा जन्म 2 ऑक्टोबर 1869 रोजी गुजरातमधील पोरबंदर येथे झाला.
गांधीजींनी वकिलीचे शिक्षण लंडनमध्ये घेतले आणि काही काळ ते दक्षिण आफ्रिकेत राहिले. तेथे वर्णभेदाचा अन्याय पाहून त्यांनी सत्याग्रहाचा मार्ग स्वीकारला, म्हणजेच हिंसा न करता सत्यासाठी ठाम उभे राहणे. 1915 मध्ये ते भारतात परतले आणि स्वातंत्र्यलढ्याचे नेतृत्व करू लागले.
असहकार चळवळ, 1930 ची दांडी यात्रा आणि 1942 ची 'चले जाव' चळवळ ही त्यांच्या नेतृत्वाची ओळख ठरली. दांडी यात्रेत मिठाचा कायदा मोडण्यासाठी ते सुमारे 390 किलोमीटर पायी चालत समुद्रकिनारी पोहोचले. या सर्व चळवळींचा पाया सत्य आणि अहिंसा हाच होता.
गांधीजींना केवळ राजकीय स्वातंत्र्य नको होते, तर प्रत्येक नागरिकाचे कल्याण हवे होते. स्वदेशी, श्रमप्रतिष्ठा, स्वच्छता, बंधुभाव आणि साधी राहणी यांवर ते भर देत. त्यांच्या स्वच्छतेच्या शिकवणुकीतून प्रेरणा घेऊन 2014 मध्ये स्वच्छ भारत अभियान सुरू झाले.
30 जानेवारी 1948 रोजी त्यांची हत्या झाली, पण त्यांचे विचार आजही जिवंत आहेत. मार्टिन ल्यूथर किंग ज्युनियर आणि नेल्सन मंडेला यांसारख्या नेत्यांनीही त्यांच्याकडून प्रेरणा घेतली. 2007 मध्ये संयुक्त राष्ट्रांनी 2 ऑक्टोबर हा दिवस 'आंतरराष्ट्रीय अहिंसा दिन' म्हणून घोषित केला.
विद्यार्थ्यांसाठी गांधी जयंती म्हणजे केवळ सुट्टी नाही. खरे बोलण्याचा, इतरांचा आदर करण्याचा आणि आपला परिसर स्वच्छ ठेवण्याचा संकल्प करण्याची ही संधी आहे. या छोट्या गोष्टी आपण अंगीकारल्या, तर बापूंचे स्वप्न नक्कीच साकार होईल.
गांधी जयंतीवर छोटे भाषण
आदरणीय मुख्याध्यापक, शिक्षकवृंद आणि माझ्या प्रिय मित्रांनो, सुप्रभात.
आज आपण सर्वजण गांधी जयंती साजरी करण्यासाठी येथे जमलो आहोत. आजच्या दिवशी, 2 ऑक्टोबर 1869 रोजी, पोरबंदर येथे महात्मा गांधी यांचा जन्म झाला. आपण त्यांना प्रेमाने बापू म्हणतो.
बापूंनी आपल्याला शिकवले की खरे बोलणे आणि कोणालाही त्रास न देणे हीच सर्वात मोठी ताकद आहे. त्यांच्या सत्य आणि अहिंसेच्या मार्गाने आपला देश 1947 मध्ये स्वतंत्र झाला.
चला, आज आपण संकल्प करूया की आपण नेहमी खरे बोलू, सर्वांशी प्रेमाने वागू आणि आपली शाळा व परिसर स्वच्छ ठेवू.
धन्यवाद. जय हिंद!
गांधी जयंतीवर भाषण
आदरणीय मुख्याध्यापक, सन्माननीय शिक्षकवृंद आणि माझ्या प्रिय मित्रांनो, सर्वांना सुप्रभात.
आज 2 ऑक्टोबर, गांधी जयंती. आज आपण अशा महापुरुषाचे स्मरण करत आहोत ज्यांनी शस्त्रांनी नव्हे, तर सत्य, संयम आणि अहिंसेने जगाचे मन जिंकले.
मोहनदास करमचंद गांधी यांचा जन्म 2 ऑक्टोबर 1869 रोजी पोरबंदर, गुजरात येथे झाला. दक्षिण आफ्रिकेत त्यांनी अन्यायाविरुद्ध सत्याग्रहाचा प्रयोग केला आणि 1915 मध्ये भारतात परतल्यावर स्वातंत्र्यलढ्याचे नेतृत्व केले.
असहकार चळवळ, दांडी यात्रा आणि 'चले जाव' चळवळ, या सर्वांचा पाया सत्य आणि अहिंसा होता. स्वातंत्र्य फक्त ताकदीने मिळते असे जग मानत असताना, दृढ निश्चय कोणत्याही शस्त्रापेक्षा मोठा असतो हे गांधीजींनी दाखवून दिले.
पण त्यांचे स्वप्न केवळ स्वातंत्र्यापुरते मर्यादित नव्हते. स्वावलंबन, स्वच्छता, बंधुभाव आणि प्रत्येक कामाचा सन्मान असलेल्या भारताची ते कल्पना करत. त्यांच्या याच विचारांमुळे आजही स्वच्छ भारत अभियानाला प्रेरणा मिळते.
जगातील अनेक नेत्यांनी त्यांच्याकडून प्रेरणा घेतली आणि 2007 मध्ये संयुक्त राष्ट्रांनी त्यांच्या जन्मदिनाला आंतरराष्ट्रीय अहिंसा दिन म्हणून घोषित केले.
प्रिय विद्यार्थ्यांनो, आपणही आपल्या आयुष्यात गांधीजींच्या शिकवणुकी उतरवायला हव्यात. कोणाशी भांडण झाले तर शांतपणे बोलावे, खरे बोलण्यास घाबरू नये आणि आपला वर्ग व शाळा स्वच्छ ठेवावी.
चला, आज आपण प्रतिज्ञा करूया की सत्य, दया आणि शांततेच्या मार्गावर चालू.
जय हिंद, धन्यवाद.
Gandhi Jayanti stories for preschoolers
Short, gentle stories with a moral and questions to ask your child.
Bapu and the Honest Answer
When Bapu was a little boy, his name was Mohan. One day an inspector visited his school and asked the children to write some words on their slates.
Mohan wrote one word wrongly. His teacher saw this and quietly tapped his foot, as if to say, "Look at your friend's slate and copy!"
But Mohan did not copy. He wrote only what he knew. Afterwards the teacher was a little upset. Yet Mohan understood something important: it is better to be honest than to be right by cheating.
- Why do you think Mohan did not copy?
- Have you ever told the truth when it was difficult?
हिन्दी में पढ़ें
बचपन में बापू का नाम मोहन था। एक दिन स्कूल में इंस्पेक्टर साहब आए और बच्चों से कुछ शब्द लिखवाए। मोहन ने एक शब्द ग़लत लिखा। शिक्षक ने इशारे से कहा, 'पास वाले की स्लेट देखकर लिख लो।' पर मोहन ने नक़ल नहीं की। उसने वही लिखा जो उसे आता था। शिक्षक थोड़े नाराज़ हुए, लेकिन मोहन ने सीखा कि नक़ल करके सही होने से अच्छा है ईमानदार रहना। सीख: सच बोलो और ईमानदार बनो।
मराठीत वाचा
लहानपणी बापूंचे नाव मोहन होते. एके दिवशी शाळेत निरीक्षक आले आणि त्यांनी मुलांना काही शब्द लिहायला सांगितले. मोहनने एक शब्द चुकीचा लिहिला. शिक्षकांनी खुणेने सांगितले, 'शेजारच्याची पाटी पाहून लिही.' पण मोहनने नक्कल केली नाही. त्याला जे येत होते तेच त्याने लिहिले. शिक्षक थोडे नाराज झाले, पण मोहनला कळले की नक्कल करून बरोबर ठरण्यापेक्षा प्रामाणिक राहणे चांगले. शिकवण: खरे बोला आणि प्रामाणिक राहा.
The Two Shoes
One day Bapu was getting onto a moving train when one of his shoes slipped off and fell onto the track. The train was picking up speed and he could not pick it up.
Bapu calmly took off his other shoe and threw it down beside the first one. A friend asked, "Bapu, why did you do that?"
Bapu smiled. "Now a poor person who finds one shoe will find the pair, and can use them."
- Why did Bapu throw the second shoe?
- What small thing can you share with someone today?
Bapu's Little Spinning Wheel
Bapu had a small wooden spinning wheel called a charkha. Every day he sat down and turned it, and soft cotton became a long, thin thread.
One thread is very thin. But many threads together make strong cloth. Bapu wore clothes made from thread that he spun himself, and he taught people to make what they need instead of wasting.
So the little wheel turned, and turned, and taught the whole country that small work done every day can do big things.
- What did Bapu make with the charkha?
- What small thing can you do every day, like brushing or tidying?
Poems and songs for Gandhi Jayanti
Bapu (English)
Bapu walked with a stick in hand, Truth was the star that helped him stand. He spun his wheel and he spun his thread, He wore what he made, and he shared his bread. No fists, no anger, no shout, no fight, He won our freedom with what was right. So on second October, let's all say, "Thank you, Bapu, we'll walk your way."
बापू (हिन्दी)
लाठी लेकर चलते बापू, सत्य का दीप जलाते बापू। चरखे पर वे सूत कातते, सबको मिलकर रहना सिखाते। न ग़ुस्सा, न मार, न लड़ाई का शोर, अहिंसा से जीत ली आज़ादी की भोर। दो अक्टूबर जब भी आए, हम बापू की राह अपनाएँ।
Bapu's favourite bhajans and songs
These are often sung on Gandhi Jayanti. Lyrics are not reproduced here; use an official or licensed source.
- Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram
- Vaishnav Jan To (by Narsinh Mehta)
- Ekla Chalo Re (by Rabindranath Tagore)
Best Mahatma Gandhi quotes for Gandhi Jayanti
Copy a quote or send it straight to a class WhatsApp group.
Be the change that you wish to see in the world.Mahatma Gandhi
An eye for an eye only ends up making the whole world blind.Mahatma Gandhi
Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.Mahatma Gandhi
The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.Mahatma Gandhi
Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will.Mahatma Gandhi
Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.Mahatma Gandhi
In a gentle way, you can shake the world.Mahatma Gandhi
Freedom is not worth having if it does not include the freedom to make mistakes.Mahatma Gandhi
The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong.Mahatma Gandhi
Non-violence is the greatest force at the disposal of mankind.Mahatma Gandhi
A nation's culture resides in the hearts and in the soul of its people.Mahatma Gandhi
Where there is love there is life.Mahatma Gandhi
Gandhi Jayanti slogans in English, Hindi and Marathi
Ready for posters, banners and rallies.
- Truth is the path, peace is the goal.
- Be the change Bapu wanted to see.
- Clean hands, clean hearts, clean India.
- Non-violence is the strength of the brave.
- Speak truth. Spin peace. Sweep clean.
- Honesty today, a better India tomorrow.
- Think kind, speak true, act clean: Bapu's way.
- No weapon is stronger than truth.
- Where there is truth, there is freedom.
- Peace begins with me.
- One small act of kindness, one step closer to Bapu's dream.
- Do or Die: Gandhi's call in 1942.
- सत्य की राह, शांति की चाह।
- अहिंसा परमो धर्मः।
- स्वच्छ हाथ, स्वच्छ मन, स्वच्छ भारत।
- बापू का सपना, स्वच्छ भारत अपना।
- सत्य बोलो, प्रेम से रहो।
- अहिंसा से बड़ी कोई ताक़त नहीं।
- सादा जीवन, उच्च विचार।
- करो या मरो (1942)।
- सत्याची वाट, शांततेची साथ.
- अहिंसा परमो धर्मः.
- स्वच्छ हात, स्वच्छ मन, स्वच्छ भारत.
- बापूंचे स्वप्न, स्वच्छ भारत आपले.
- खरे बोला, प्रेमाने वागा.
- अहिंसेपेक्षा मोठी ताकद नाही.
- साधी राहणी, उच्च विचारसरणी.
- 'करा किंवा मरा' (1942).
Gandhi Jayanti wishes and WhatsApp messages
Happy Gandhi Jayanti! May Bapu's teachings of truth and non-violence guide us every day.
On this Gandhi Jayanti, let's pledge to be the change we wish to see. Happy Gandhi Jayanti!
Truth. Non-violence. Simplicity. Three lessons for a lifetime. Happy Gandhi Jayanti.
Let's keep Bapu's dream alive: a clean, peaceful and united India. Happy Gandhi Jayanti!
Dear students, be honest, be kind, be brave. That is the best way to honour Bapu. Happy Gandhi Jayanti!
Wishing you a peaceful Gandhi Jayanti filled with truth, courage and compassion.
गांधी जयंती की हार्दिक शुभकामनाएँ! बापू के सत्य और अहिंसा के विचार हमारा मार्ग रोशन करें।
आइए, आज बापू के सपनों का स्वच्छ और शांत भारत बनाने का संकल्प लें। गांधी जयंती की शुभकामनाएँ!
गांधी जयंतीच्या हार्दिक शुभेच्छा! बापूंचे सत्य आणि अहिंसेचे विचार आपला मार्ग उजळवोत.
चला, आज बापूंच्या स्वप्नातील स्वच्छ आणि शांत भारत घडवण्याचा संकल्प करूया. गांधी जयंतीच्या शुभेच्छा!
Chapter III · Create and celebrate
Make the day
come alive.
Images, school activities, an assembly plan and easy DIY ideas.
Gandhi Jayanti activities for school, by age group
- Story circleTell one of the Bapu stories above with simple props.
- Paper spectacles craftChildren colour and wear round paper glasses.
- Cotton-ball spinningRoll cotton into thread, like Bapu at his charkha.
- Handprint pledge treeEach child adds a handprint leaf with one good promise.
- Sing togetherA simple bhajan such as Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram.
- Tidy-up paradeA supervised clean-up of the classroom or play area.
- Poster and slogan makingThemes: truth, non-violence, cleanliness.
- Fancy dressDress as Bapu or a freedom fighter, with a one-minute introduction.
- Speech and recitationIn English, Hindi or Marathi, class-wise.
- Cleanliness driveA campus clean-up with gloves and bags.
- Picture quizIdentify places and events from Bapu's life.
- Truth jarChildren drop in a slip each time they tell the truth or help someone.
- Debate"Is non-violence still relevant today?"
- Skit or street playAct out Champaran, the Dandi March or Quit India.
- Timeline projectBuild a class-wide wall timeline of Gandhi's life.
- Charkha modelA working model, plus a short talk on Swadeshi.
- Virtual museum visitExplore the Gandhi Heritage Portal in class.
- Essay contestEnglish, Hindi and Marathi categories.
- Mock peace assemblyDebate a modern conflict using non-violent methods.
- Documentary and reflectionScreen a documentary and write a reflection.
- Case studyCompare Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela.
- Community service projectPlan a project around cleanliness, dignity of labour or service.
- Letter to future selfWrite about the value you will practise this year.
- Podcast or reelStudents make a short piece on a Gandhian value.
Assembly plan, pledge and circular for teachers
- 3 minPrayer and bhajan. Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram, sung together.
- 1 minThought of the day. A Gandhi quote read by a student.
- 2 minDid you know. Three quick facts from the rapid-fire section.
- 3 minSpeech. A short student speech.
- 5 minSkit. A skit on truth or the Dandi March.
- 3 minPoem or song. A recitation in English, Hindi or Marathi.
- 2 minPrincipal's message. A short address.
- 1 minPledge. Everyone reads the pledge together.
Total: about 20 minutes.
Gandhi Jayanti pledge for students
English
I promise to speak the truth, to be kind to everyone, to solve problems without hurting anyone, to keep my school and surroundings clean, and to respect every kind of work. I will try, every day, to be the change I wish to see. Jai Hind.
हिन्दी
मैं प्रतिज्ञा करता/करती हूँ कि सदा सत्य बोलूँगा/बोलूँगी, सबके साथ दया से पेश आऊँगा/आऊँगी, बिना किसी को चोट पहुँचाए समस्याएँ सुलझाऊँगा/सुलझाऊँगी, अपने विद्यालय और आसपास को स्वच्छ रखूँगा/रखूँगी और हर काम का सम्मान करूँगा/करूँगी। जय हिंद।
Sample circular to parents
Fill in the brackets and adapt it for your school.
Dress up, draw and craft
How to dress as Gandhiji
- A white dhoti or white cloth wrapped neatly, and a white khadi-style shawl over the shoulder
- Round wire-framed spectacles
- A walking stick
- Simple sandals or bare feet on the stage
- A bald cap or slicked-back hair
- A pocket watch or a small charkha as a prop
- A one-line practice: "I am Mahatma Gandhi. Truth and non-violence are my strength."
How to draw a Gandhi Jayanti poster
- Choose one message: truth, non-violence, cleanliness or peace.
- Lightly sketch a simple symbol: a charkha, round spectacles, a walking stick or the Dandi March.
- Trace over with a dark outline so it is easy to see from a distance.
- Colour with saffron, white, green and blue, and keep a light background.
- Write a short slogan in large, bold letters.
- Add a border and your name and class.
Easy crafts for little ones
Paper-plate charkha
Paper plate, a straw, a split pin, string. Make the wheel turn and wind the string around it.
Paper spectacles
Cut two rings from card, join with a small bridge, add side arms. Colour them.
Cotton spinning
Roll a cotton ball between your fingers into thread, and compare one thread with a bundle.
Handprint pledge tree
Draw a trunk. Each child adds a handprint leaf and writes one good promise.
Chapter IV · Play and check
Test what
you know.
A short quiz and quick facts.
Gandhi Jayanti quiz for students
10 questions. See your score at the end.
Rapid-fire facts about Mahatma Gandhi
Chapter V · For parents and teachers
Talk to the
child in front.
Talking to children, common questions and our sources.
How to explain Gandhiji to your child
- Bapu was a kind man who loved to tell the truth.
- He did not fight with hitting or shouting. He asked people to be fair and kind.
- Use stories and songs, and keep it under five minutes.
- Gandhiji helped India become free from British rule without using weapons.
- Talk about telling the truth, helping others and keeping things clean.
- Ask: what does it mean to be brave without being violent?
- Explain Satya, Ahimsa and Satyagraha with an example, such as the Dandi March.
- Look at a map: Porbandar, South Africa, Champaran, Dandi.
- Ask them to write three ways they can practise these values at school.
- Discuss how non-violent movements worked in history, including Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela.
- Invite debate: were there limits to his methods? Where do people disagree?
- Encourage them to read from the Gandhi Heritage Portal.
Frequently asked questions
When is Gandhi Jayanti 2026?
Gandhi Jayanti 2026 falls on Friday, 2 October, marking the 157th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.
Is Gandhi Jayanti 2026 a school holiday?
Yes. Gandhi Jayanti is one of India's three national holidays, and schools across the country, including CBSE-affiliated schools, remain closed on 2nd October. Parents can check Rainbow International School's academic calendar to confirm the exact holiday schedule for the 2026–27 academic year.
Are banks open on Gandhi Jayanti?
2 October is a national holiday, so banks are generally closed for in-person services. Online and UPI services usually keep working. Check the RBI holiday list for your state before planning a visit.
Is 2 October a dry day in Maharashtra?
2 October has traditionally been a dry day in Maharashtra, meaning sale of liquor is not allowed. Rules can change and are set by the state excise department, so check the latest official notification.
Why do we celebrate Gandhi Jayanti?
We celebrate it to honour Mahatma Gandhi's birth on 2 October 1869 and his leadership in India's freedom struggle through truth (Satya) and non-violence (Ahimsa).
Why is 2 October the International Day of Non-Violence?
In 2007, the UN General Assembly (resolution A/RES/61/271) designated 2 October, Gandhi's birthday, as the International Day of Non-Violence to spread the message of non-violence through education and public awareness.
What are the three national holidays of India?
Republic Day (26 January), Independence Day (15 August) and Gandhi Jayanti (2 October).
Who else was born on 2 October?
Lal Bahadur Shastri, India's second Prime Minister, was born on 2 October 1904. He is remembered for the slogan "Jai Jawan Jai Kisan".
What is the difference between Gandhi Jayanti and Martyrs' Day?
Gandhi Jayanti (2 October) marks his birth. Martyrs' Day (30 January) marks the day he was assassinated in 1948.
What should a good Gandhi Jayanti speech include?
A strong speech covers Gandhiji's birth and early life, his role in the freedom struggle, his philosophy of truth and non-violence, and a closing message for students to apply his values in daily life.
How can students prepare for an essay or speech competition?
Focus on a few key facts (date and place of birth, major movements), one or two guiding principles (Satya and Ahimsa), and a short personal reflection on how these values apply today.
Where can I find a Gandhi Jayanti speech or essay in Hindi and Marathi?
This page has 10 lines, short and long essays, and short and long speeches in English, Hindi and Marathi. Use the language buttons in the Essays and speeches section.
How do schools celebrate Gandhi Jayanti?
Common activities are a flag hoisting and tribute, bhajans, speech and essay competitions, poster making, fancy dress, skits, quizzes, cleanliness drives and community service.
How can I explain Gandhiji to a young child?
Keep it simple and story-based: Bapu loved the truth, was kind, and helped India become free without hitting or shouting. Short stories and songs work well for ages 3 to 6.
Where can I find more CBSE-focused resources like this?
Rainbow International School's blog regularly publishes CBSE-aligned guides on festivals, exam preparation and school life for Jr KG to Class 12 students in Thane.
Sources and how this page was prepared
- United Nations: International Day of Non-Violence
- United Nations News: UN declares 2 October International Day of Non-Violence (2007)
- Gandhi Heritage Portal: authentic archive on Gandhi's life and thought
- Mani Bhavan Gandhi Sangrahalaya, Mumbai
- M. K. Gandhi, The Story of My Experiments with Truth (autobiography)
Reviewed by Rainbow International School Team on 29th September, 2026.
Explore more from Rainbow International School (RIS) and Rainbow Preschool International (RPS): About us, Beyond the Classroom, Pre-Primary, Primary, Middle School, Academic calendar and Photo gallery.
About Rainbow International School, Thane
Rainbow International School, Thane is a CBSE-affiliated school educating students from Jr KG to Class 12 on a 3.5-acre campus in the Brahmand area of Thane, Maharashtra. Founded in 2009, the school is guided by the belief that every child should dare to dream, learn with joy, and grow into a lifelong learner. Admissions for the 2027-28 academic year are open.