India’s NSE and BSE will remain shut on Thursday, Oct 2, 2025, observing Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti and Dussehra, part of 14 weekday market holidays this year.
When observing Gandhi Jayanti, the national holiday that marks the birth of Mahatma Gandhi on 2 October each year. Also known as Gandhi Birth Anniversary, it serves as a reminder of peace, simplicity and public service.
At the heart of this day is Mahatma Gandhi, the leader of India's independence movement who championed non‑violent resistance. His core principle, Ahimsa, the practice of non‑violence toward all living beings, shapes the way schools, government offices and citizens observe the holiday – from moment of silence to the lighting of oil lamps in his honor. The strategy of Satyagraha, civil disobedience rooted in truth and moral force also finds a place in special programs, where young people reenact historic protests to understand the power of peaceful defiance. Finally, the broader narrative of Indian Independence, the 1947 liberation from British rule driven by Gandhi's leadership connects the birthday celebration to a national story of freedom, resilience and collective identity. In short, Gandhi Jayanti encompasses a blend of history, ethics and community rituals that keep Gandhi’s vision alive.
Today the celebration goes beyond ceremonies. Cities host marathon runs named after the Mahatma, encouraging participants to adopt his stamina and discipline. Libraries set up pop‑up exhibits on his letters, showing how his thoughts evolved from South Africa to the Indian subcontinent. Media channels air documentaries that illustrate how Ahimsa influences modern social movements, from environmental protests to gender‑rights campaigns. Schools integrate interactive lessons on Satyagraha, prompting students to debate non‑violent tactics in current events. This multi‑dimensional approach reflects a key semantic triple: "Gandhi Jayanti requires reflection on non‑violence, which influences contemporary Indian activism". Another triple links the holiday to education: "Mahatma Gandhi inspires curricula that teach peace and civic responsibility". By weaving these threads, the day becomes a living laboratory for values that shape public life.
Looking ahead, the breadth of stories we feature mirrors the diversity of Gandhi’s legacy. Whether you’re interested in sports victories that echo his spirit of fair play, tech breakthroughs that embody his belief in simple solutions, or legal discussions that echo his quest for justice, you’ll find pieces that tie back to the same ethos of integrity and service. Below, an eclectic collection of articles awaits – each offering a fresh angle on how Gandhi’s teachings intersect with today’s headlines. Dive in to see how the ideals of Gandhi Jayanti continue to ripple through every corner of Indian society.