PM Modi, President Murmu, and VP Radhakrishnan Pay Tribute to Gandhi & Shastri on Birth Anniversary

PM Modi, President Murmu and Vice-President CP Radhakrishnan Pay Homage to Mahatma Gandhi and Lal Bahadur Shastri on Birth Anniversary

Every year, October 2 holds special significance for India and the world. It is the birth anniversary of two great leaders—Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation, and Lal Bahadur Shastri, India’s second Prime Minister. 

Both leaders continue to inspire generations with their values of simplicity, non-violence, truth, and dedication to the nation. On October 2, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Droupadi Murmu, and Vice-President CP Radhakrishnan paid floral tributes to these visionaries, reaffirming the timeless relevance of their ideals.

This day is not just a ritual but a reminder of India’s moral compass, rooted in Gandhian philosophy and Shastri’s principle of “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan.” The homage by the top leadership of the country reflects the importance of staying true to their teachings in today’s world.

Importance of October 2 in Indian History

October 2 marks a double commemoration:

Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti – Gandhi was born on 2nd October 1869 in Porbandar, Gujarat. His philosophy of Ahimsa (non-violence) and Satya (truth) became the bedrock of India’s independence movement. His approach inspired leaders across the world, from Martin Luther King Jr. to Nelson Mandela.

Lal Bahadur Shastri Jayanti – Born on October 2, 1904, Shastri ji became the second Prime Minister of India. Known for his honesty, humility, and strong leadership, he gave the nation the slogan “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan”, reinforcing the importance of farmers and soldiers in building a strong nation.

Thus, October 2 is not just a date but a symbol of India’s identity, struggle, and values.

Tributes by PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to both Gandhi and Shastri at Raj Ghat and Vijay Ghat in New Delhi. Offering floral tributes, he tweeted that the nation will forever remain indebted to their contribution.

PM Modi emphasized:

Gandhi’s message of peace, non-violence, and sustainability is even more relevant in the 21st century.

Shastri’s simplicity, patriotism, and leadership during the 1965 India-Pakistan war continue to inspire citizens.

The Prime Minister also reminded people of Gandhi’s vision of “Swachh Bharat” and Shastri’s focus on self-reliance, both of which resonate strongly with the government’s policies today.

Over the years, PM Modi has often spoken about how Gandhi’s ideals laid the foundation of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, while Shastri’s call for farmers’ empowerment inspired agricultural reforms.

President Droupadi Murmu’s Tribute

President Murmu visited Raj Ghat early in the morning and offered floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi. She reflected on how Gandhi’s values of truth, non-violence, and human dignity remain guiding principles for democracy.

In her message, President Murmu said:

Gandhi’s philosophy transcends time and borders, making him a global icon of peace.

Shastri’s leadership during challenging times proved that moral strength and integrity are as important as political power.

She urged citizens, especially the youth, to adopt Gandhian values in their daily lives.

Her tribute highlighted the importance of preserving India’s cultural and moral heritage while moving forward in a modern world.

Vice-President CP Radhakrishnan’s Homage

Vice-President CP Radhakrishnan also paid floral tributes at Raj Ghat and Vijay Ghat. He underlined how Gandhi and Shastri symbolize humility, service, and sacrifice.

The Vice-President’s statement emphasized:

• Gandhi’s emphasis on Gram Swaraj (village self-rule) is critical for India’s inclusive development.

• Shastri’s life teaches that leadership is about putting the nation above self.

• Both leaders inspire India’s democratic values and strengthen the spirit of unity.

Gandhi’s Ideals and Their Relevance Today

Even decades after independence, Gandhi’s principles remain highly relevant.

Ahimsa (Non-Violence): In a world troubled by wars and conflicts, Gandhi’s non-violent resistance stands as a beacon of hope.

Satyagraha (Truth and Resistance): His philosophy shows that peaceful protest can bring social and political change.

Swadeshi and Self-Reliance: Gandhi promoted local industries, which resonates with today’s Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan.

Environmental Awareness: Gandhi believed in living in harmony with nature, a lesson crucial in today’s fight against climate change.

Social Justice: His fight against untouchability and inequality remains relevant in addressing modern-day discrimination.

Shastri’s Legacy and Its Modern Context

Lal Bahadur Shastri may have served as Prime Minister for only 18 months, but his impact was profound.

“Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan”: His iconic slogan recognized the twin pillars of India’s security and prosperity.

Leadership in War: His courage during the 1965 war with Pakistan boosted national morale.

Agricultural Reforms: Shastri laid the groundwork for the Green Revolution, strengthening food security.

Simplicity in Leadership: Known for humility, he set an example of honest and selfless service.

Tashkent Agreement: His efforts for peace highlight the importance of dialogue in international relations.

In today’s context, his focus on soldiers and farmers aligns with modern India’s defense advancements and agricultural modernization.

Nationwide Observance of Gandhi and Shastri Jayanti

Across India, October 2 is observed as a day of reflection and service.

• Government Programs: Swachh Bharat drives, peace marches, and cultural programs are organized.
• Schools & Colleges: Educational institutions hold essay competitions, debates, and plays to spread awareness.
• International Recognition: Gandhi Jayanti is also observed as International Day of Non-Violence, celebrated by the United Nations.
• Public Participation: Citizens participate in cleanliness drives, tree plantation, and awareness campaigns.

The day becomes a reminder that leadership is about service, not power.

Global Relevance of Gandhi’s Philosophy

Mahatma Gandhi is not just India’s leader but a global icon. His teachings influenced leaders worldwide:

• Martin Luther King Jr. used Gandhian non-violence in the American Civil Rights Movement.
• Nelson Mandela applied Gandhi’s principles in the anti-apartheid struggle in South Africa.
• Modern Peace Movements across the globe still draw inspiration from Gandhi’s methods of protest.

This global admiration makes October 2 not just an Indian celebration but a universal occasion.

Lessons for the Youth

The younger generation can draw immense inspiration from Gandhi and Shastri:

1. Courage with Compassion – Stand for truth but with humanity.
2. Simplicity as Strength – True leadership is not about luxury but humility.
3. Service Before Self – A nation prospers when individuals work for collective growth.
4. Respect for Farmers and Soldiers – Recognizing those who feed and protect us is essential for progress.
5. Environmental Responsibility – Living sustainably is the only way to secure the future.

Conclusion

The homage paid by PM Modi, President Murmu, and Vice-President CP Radhakrishnan to Mahatma Gandhi and Lal Bahadur Shastri is more than a ceremonial act. It is a powerful reminder that India’s moral and political fabric is woven with the ideals of truth, non-violence, simplicity, and service.

As the world faces conflicts, environmental crises, and inequality, the teachings of Gandhi and Shastri continue to guide us. Their birth anniversary is not just a day of remembrance but a call to action—for citizens to adopt their values in daily life.

In honoring them, India reaffirms its commitment to peace, justice, and self-reliance.

Jai Jawan Jai Kisan slogan.