In 2025, Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti will be observed on Thursday, 2nd October. It marks the birth anniversary of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, popularly known as the “Father of the Nation.” Gandhi Jayanti is a day to remember his role in India’s independence, his philosophy of truth (Satya) and non-violence (Ahimsa), and his global legacy as a symbol of peace. The day is celebrated with prayer services, commemorative events, cultural programmes, and cleanliness drives across India. Internationally, 2nd October is also observed as the International Day of Non-Violence, as declared by the United Nations in 2007.
📜 Holiday Status
Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti on 2nd October is a Gazetted Holiday across India. Government offices, banks, schools, and most businesses remain closed nationwide. It is one of the three official national holidays of India, along with Republic Day (26th January) and Independence Day (15th August). In 2025, the holiday falls on a Thursday, giving people a mid-week break.
✨ Significance of Gandhi Jayanti
The day commemorates the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, who led India’s freedom struggle with the principles of non-violence, civil disobedience, and truth. His life and teachings continue to inspire movements for peace and justice worldwide. The United Nations also honours this day as the International Day of Non-Violence, reflecting Gandhi’s global influence.
🎉 How People Celebrate
On Gandhi Jayanti, prayer services are held at Raj Ghat in New Delhi, where Gandhi was cremated. Political leaders, citizens, and foreign dignitaries pay tribute with flowers. Schools and communities organise essay competitions, debates, cultural programmes, and cleanliness drives inspired by Gandhi’s “Swachh Bharat” vision. Across the country, people engage in voluntary social service and peaceful marches to honour his ideals.
🗓️ Leave Planning
In 2025, Gandhi Jayanti falls on Thursday, 2nd October. Employees can plan a long weekend break by taking leave on Friday, 3rd October, thereby extending their holiday till Sunday, 5th October. This makes it an excellent opportunity for family trips, cultural activities, or simply reflecting on Gandhi’s message of simplicity and peace. To plan smarter, check our Smart Leave Planner.
🏛️ Daily Life Impact
Here’s how Gandhi Jayanti affects daily life on 2nd October 2025:
| Sector / Service | Status on 2nd October 2025 |
|---|---|
| Government Offices | Closed (National Holiday) |
| Banks | Closed nationwide |
| Schools & Colleges | Closed |
| Stock Market (NSE/BSE) | Closed |
| Post Offices | Closed nationwide |
| Shops & Liquor Stores | Closed (Dry Day enforced) |
🌍 Global Observance
Gandhi Jayanti is celebrated in India, but its global counterpart is the International Day of Non-Violence, observed by the United Nations and many countries. Educational institutions, peace organisations, and Indian embassies worldwide host seminars, lectures, and cultural programmes to spread Gandhi’s message of truth and non-violence.
📖 Interesting Facts
- 2nd October is a Dry Day in India — sale of alcohol is strictly prohibited.
- Gandhi never received the Nobel Peace Prize, though he was nominated several times.
- The title “Father of the Nation” was first used for him by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.
- In 2025, Gandhi Jayanti provides a mid-week holiday, which can be clubbed for a long break.
💌 Gandhi Jayanti Wishes
Here are some thoughtful greetings to share on Gandhi Jayanti:
- Let us follow the path of truth and non-violence as shown by Mahatma Gandhi. Happy Gandhi Jayanti!
- May Gandhi Ji’s ideals inspire us to build a more peaceful and just world. Wishing you Gandhi Jayanti 2025.
- Be the change you wish to see in the world — a timeless message on this Gandhi Jayanti.
- On this Gandhi Jayanti, let us honour the Father of the Nation with acts of kindness and truth.
❓ FAQs
Q. Is Gandhi Jayanti a National Holiday?
Yes, Gandhi Jayanti is one of India’s three official national holidays, along with Republic Day and Independence Day.
Q. Will banks remain closed on Gandhi Jayanti 2025?
Yes, all banks across India will remain closed on 2nd October 2025.
Q. Is the stock market open on 2nd October 2025?
No, both NSE and BSE will remain closed on Gandhi Jayanti.
Q. Why is alcohol not sold on Gandhi Jayanti?
2nd October is a Dry Day in India to honour Gandhi’s principles of simplicity and abstinence, and the sale of liquor is banned nationwide.