Rakshita
We owe our independence to the real leaders of our nation who led the freedom struggle sacrificing their peace and even life. The greatest of them all was Mahatma Gandhi, the most influential figure in pre-independence India who unified people everywhere he went.
The birth anniversary of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, 2nd of October is celebrated as Gandhi Jayanti every year as a day of National and International value. On the same day, the world celebrates the International Day of Non-violence dedicated to the doctrines of Gandhi.
Significance of Gandhi Jayanti
From an early age, Mahatma Gandhi started showing his concern for the freedom of his people. This ambition and deep connection with his land made him the legendary figure we know today. Also known as ‘Bapu’, Gandhi is honoured for all his efforts, principles, and contributions that led to the foundation of a stronger and unified India. He organized campaigns and led national movements to resist British rule. The Dandi March and Quit India Movement are just a part of his contributions to the nation. His visions of “ahimsa” (non-violence) and “satyagraha” (truth-force) are still embedded within the ideals of every Indian.
Ways to Celebrate Gandhi Jayanti with Children
Bapu and his ideals deserve great respect and they must be inculcated in the young generations of India. Every institution and organization remembers Mahatma Gandhi on this day and spread his wisdom for others to embrace. There are several ways to celebrate Gandhi Jayanti with children:
Organize an Academic or Art Competition
In schools, colleges, and societies students are quite enthusiastic about winning prizes and showing off their talents. This is the best opportunity to ask them to show their skills while learning about Mahatma Gandhi. Speech and debate competitions are a great way for high school students to study and learn about the inspiring life of Bapu. For middle school students, craft competitions can be the best alternatives like poster making, painting, or sketching around the theme of Gandhi Jayanti.
More fun activities are preferred for primary school students, for example, patriotic singing competition, costume competition, or essay writing on Mahatma Gandhi. With the right guidance, they will get to know the importance of truth, non-violence, and patriotism.
Organize a ‘Vocal for Local’ Rally
Mahatma Gandhi believed in the power of the ‘swadeshi’. In 2020, India started a similar initiative called “vocal for local”, the term changed but the essence remains the same. You can teach children the importance of buying local products and how it helps our country to grow. Simplify the economics and make them aware of the huge difference it can make. Within an institution, you can organize a rally and spread the word. This is will be a true tribute to the Father of the Nation of India.
Initiate a Hygiene Programme
On the 2nd of October in 2014, PM Narendra Modi started a 5-year “Swachh Bharat Abhiyan” to honour Bapu on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti. Now, ahead of 2nd of October 2021, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban 2.0 and Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation 2.0 on 1st Oct.
It is also the duty of every Indian to keep our country clean. Children must be taught the importance of hygiene on this day. Asking them to divide into groups and clean public parks, or even their backyards is a good initiative.
If we inculcate good values and morals in our younger generations today then the future of India will be better and brighter. And one day, we might be able to create the India that Mahatma Gandhi envisioned and struggled for.
As India celebrates the 152nd birth anniversary of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, known as the ‘Father of the Nation’, let our thoughts be ignited with his vision, values and philosophy.
