Gandhi Jayanti is a special day in India that honors the life and legacy of a remarkable man – Mahatma Gandhi. For kids aged 10 to 14, here’s a simple guide to understand why this day is celebrated and why Mahatma Gandhi is considered one of the greatest leaders in history.
The Date and Its Significance
Gandhi Jayanti falls on the 2nd of October every year. But why this date? It’s because this is the birthday of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, the man whom we fondly call Mahatma Gandhi. He was born on October 2, 1869, in a small town called Porbandar in India.
The Man Behind the Day
Mahatma Gandhi is often referred to as the ‘Father of the Nation’ because of his enormous role in India’s struggle for independence from British rule. But what makes him so special? It’s his philosophy of non-violence and his determination to achieve freedom through peaceful means.
The Salt March: A Pivotal Moment
One of the most famous events associated with Gandhi’s fight for freedom is the Salt March, which took place in 1930. At that time, the British government had imposed a tax on salt, which was a necessity. Gandhi decided to protest this unfair tax by walking a long distance to the Arabian Sea to make his own salt. This march became a symbol of peaceful resistance and showed the world the power of non-violence.
The Importance of Spinning Wheels
Gandhi believed in self-reliance and wanted every Indian to be self-sufficient. He encouraged people to spin their own cloth using a simple device called a spinning wheel or “charkha.” By doing this, he aimed to make India less dependent on British-made cloth. The charkha became a powerful symbol of the freedom movement.
Gandhi’s Legacy Today
Even though Mahatma Gandhi is no longer with us, his teachings and ideas continue to inspire people around the world. His message of peace, truth, and non-violence is as relevant today as it was during India’s struggle for freedom.
How We Celebrate Gandhi Jayanti
On Gandhi Jayanti, people all over India pay their respects to the Mahatma by visiting his memorials, holding prayer meetings, and singing his favorite devotional songs. It’s a day to remember his life’s work and the sacrifices he made for his country.
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