This national holiday honours Mahatma Gandhi (1869–1948), leader of the Indian resistance to British rule that culminated in the establishment of an independent Indian state in 1947. Honoured all over the world as one of the moral heroes and most influential figures of the twentieth century, Gandhi articulated and lived a doctrine of non-violence, or ahimsa, insisting that those who struggle for justice must respect the sanctity of life. Mahatma Gandhi's birthday (Gandhi Jayanti or Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti) is a gazetted holiday in India on October 2 each year. It marks the anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi's birth on October 2, 1869. Gandhi is remembered for his contributions towards the Indian freedom struggle. Many people celebrate Mahatma Gandhi's birthday across India. Events include:
    * Prayer services, commemorative ceremonies and tributes at locations all over India.
    * Essay Competition.
    * The presentation of awards to projects stimulating a non-violent way of life.
    * The showing of films and book readings on Mahatma Gandhi's life and achievements.
Many people sing Raghupati Raghava Raja Ram, Gandhi's favorite devotional song. Bunches of flowers or flower garlands are placed on many statues of Mahatma Gandhi throughout India.