Nation pays homage to Father of the Nation 'Mahatma Gandhi' today

New Delhi: The Nation pays homage to the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi on his 152nd birth anniversary today. A series of functions have been organized across the country and by Indian Missions abroad. A Sarva Dharma Prarthana Sabha was organised at his Samadhi - Raj Ghat in the national capital.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat this morning. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Congress president Sonia Gandhi, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal were among those who offered floral tributes.

Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary is also observed as the International Day of non-violence.

The nation is also remembering former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on his 117th birth anniversary today. Prime Minister also visited Vijay Ghat, the memorial of Lal Bahadur Shastri in the national capital, to pay him floral tributes.

 

President and Vice President have greeted the nation on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti.

In his message, President Ram Nath Kovind said, Mahatma Gandhi Gandhi is especially known around the world for his non-violent movement and his birth anniversary is celebrated as Non-violence Day. He said, Gandhi ji believed that non-violence is a philosophy, a principle and an experience which can be made the basis for betterment of society. President said, Gandhi ji made strenuous efforts for attaining Swaraj, removing untouchability, eradicating social evils, improving the economic condition of our farmers and women empowerment. 

Mr Kovind said, Gandhi Jayanti is a special day for all Indians and this is an occasion to remember Gandhiji's struggles and sacrifice. He said, this occasion inspires everyone to resolve to work for the prosperity and development of our



fellow citizens and country.

 

President Ram Nath Kovind paid homage to former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on his birth anniversary. He said, Shastri served the nation with full devotion and dedication and simplicity, and his conduct and integrity are a source of inspiration for all fellow citizens.

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu said that Mahatma Gandhi showed the world a novel way of struggle against injustice - that of truth and non-violence and left an ever-lasting imprint on humanity. Mr Naidu said, Gandhi ji founded his efforts to liberate India from colonial rule on the values of Truth (Satyagraha) and Non-Violence (Ahimsa). Mr Naidu said, Mahatma Gandhi remains a champion and icon of the oppressed, even in the 21st century. 

He said, the people can draw inspiration from Gandhiji's life and philosophy on sustainable development, self-reliance, empowerment of the marginalised and the push for gram swarajya. Vice President said, his life continues to be a beacon of light for the country, guiding our national progress.

 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi on his birth anniversary today. In a tweet, Mr Modi said his noble principles are globally relevant and give strength to millions.

 

The Prime Minister also remembered former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on his birth anniversary today saying that his life based on values and principles will always remain a source of inspiration for the people.

 

Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi on his birth anniversary. In a tweet, the Minister said that by imbibing Bapu's ideas and values, people can make the India of his dreams.