Source TOI
NEW DELHI — On the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi and called upon the country to embrace the ideals of truth, harmony, and self-reliance. The Prime Minister noted that Bapu’s timeless lessons continue to guide the country toward building a better society and a developed nation.
Honoring Two Great Leaders
The day began with solemn visits to national memorials in the capital. Prime Minister Modi visited Rajghat to offer flowers at the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi. He also visited Vijay Ghat to pay tribute to India’s second Prime Minister, Lal Bahadur Shastri, who shares his birth anniversary on October 2.
Modi shared that the lives of both leaders, defined by courage, simplicity, and dedicated service to the nation, remain a constant source of inspiration for generations of citizens.
Prayers and Melodies at Gandhi Smriti
Later in the day, the Prime Minister joined an interfaith prayer gathering at Gandhi Smriti, where Mahatma Gandhi spent the final months of his life.
Schoolchildren and local artists performed soulful devotional hymns and bhajans. Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan was also present at the gathering, honoring Gandhi’s lasting legacy of unity, social upliftment, and peace.
Leaders Unite Across Party Lines
Commemorative events were held across the capital, including a tribute ceremony in the Central Hall of Samvidhan Sadan (Old Parliament Building).
Leaders from across the political spectrum gathered together to honor the founding figures. Dignitaries in attendance included Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Union ministers, Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge, and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi.
A Push for Local Khadi Products
Marking Gandhi’s birth anniversary, PM Modi urged citizens to support local craftspeople by choosing Swadeshi (homegrown) goods, placing special emphasis on Khadi fabric. He encouraged every Indian to buy at least one Khadi product to celebrate the spirit of self-reliance and honor Gandhi’s vision for a self-sufficient India.
