Gandhi Jayanti 2023: History, Significance, and 5 Must-Read Books on Mahatma Gandhi, Non-Violence – News18

Gandhi Jayanti, celebrated on October 2 every year to mark Mahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary, is also observed as the International Day of Non-Violence. The day pays tribute to Gandhi’s enduring impact on global movements for peace and justice, while also promoting the universal relevance of non-violence as a means of resolving conflicts and advancing human rights. Mahatma Gandhi, fondly known as the Father of the Indian Nation, was a prominent leader in India’s struggle for independence. He is renowned for his philosophy of non-violence (ahimsa) and civil disobedience as a means to achieve social and political change.

UNITED NATIONS DECLARATION

In 2007, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution to establish October 2 as the International Day of Non-Violence. This decision was a tribute to Gandhi’s principles and the enduring relevance of non-violence in promoting peace and tolerance.

ALSO READ: Gandhi Jayanti 2023: 5 Iconic Speeches by Mahatma Gandhi That Inspired the World

GANDHI JAYANTI 2023: HISTORY AND SIGNIFICANCE

Gandhi’s life and work serve as a testament to the transformative power of non-violence. His leadership in the Indian independence movement, characterized by non-violent protests, marches, and fasting, inspired movements for civil rights and freedom around the world. The day highlights the continued relevance of Gandhian principles in today’s world.

It encourages individuals and nations to adopt non-violent means in resolving conflicts, advocating for human rights, and promoting social justice.

Observing this day underscores the belief that non-violence is a powerful tool for achieving positive change, fostering understanding, and building a more peaceful world.

5 BOOKS ON MAHATMA GANDHI

AN AUTOBIOGRAPHY: THE STORY OF MY EXPERIMENTS WITH TRUTH

The book called An Autobiography: The Story of My Experiments with Truth published in 1927 is considered to be a good source to get into the mind of the Mahatma. He has written about his life since childhood till the year 1921. He has also given the details of his experiments with diet and its effect.

HIND SWARAJ OR INDIAN HOME RULE

Another book to know more about by Mahatma Gandhi is Hind Swaraj or Indian Home Rule which was also written by the Mahatma himself in the year 1909. Considered a seditious text by the then British government, the book was banned in 1910. In this book, he has written about his views on the subjects such as swaraj (self-government), modern civilisation and mechanisation.

WATCH: 10 Inspirational Quotes By Mahatma Gandhi

THE LIFE OF MAHATMA GANDHI

Published in 1950, Louis Fischer’s The Life of Mahatma Gandhi gives the details of Gandhi’s life and how it continues to inspire millions around the world. The American journalist who has seen Gandhi closely talks about the latter’s struggle for India’s freedom and the concept of satyagrah.

GANDHI: PRISONER OF HOPE

Gandhi: Prisoner of Hope by Judith Brown was published in the year 1989. The book paints a fresh picture of the freedom fighter as a complex man. The image portrayed is not of the stereotypical saint or a clever politician.

ALSO READ: Gandhi Jayanti 2023: Quotes, Speech Ideas for Students, and How to Celebrate in School

GANDHI BEFORE INDIA

Gandhi Before India by historian Ramachandra Guha is considered to be another great book which tells you about the life and times of Gandhi. Published on his birth anniversary in 2013, the book explores his journey as a lawyer in South Africa where he witnessed discrimination and racism that people from the communities of colour faced.