NEW DELHI: On Wednesday morning, Rahul Gandhi, the Congress leader and Lok Sabha Leader of the Opposition, honored Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat in celebration of Gandhi Jayanti. He paid his respects to this pivotal figure in India’s independence movement on what would have been his 155th birthday, highlighting Gandhi’s unwavering commitment to truth and non-violence.
Additionally, Rahul Gandhi paid tribute to former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri at Vijay Ghat, marking his birth anniversary.
It’s important to note that Lal Bahadur Shastri, who also celebrated his birthday on this day, was known for the slogan ‘Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan’ and for his integrity and simplicity, which earned him great admiration. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also honored Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat with floral tributes, bowing in respect to acknowledge Gandhi’s birth anniversary. On social media, PM Modi expressed, “On behalf of all citizens, salutations to Pujya Bapu on his birth anniversary. His life and values centered on truth, harmony, and equality will continually inspire our nation.” The Prime Minister also paid homage to former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri, noting his dedication to soldiers, farmers, and the nation’s self-respect.
Mahatma Gandhi, born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, Gujarat, employed non-violent resistance in leading the struggle against British colonial rule, a patient effort that ultimately culminated in India’s independence in 1947. Lal Bahadur Shastri, born in 1904 in Uttar Pradesh, served as India’s second Prime Minister from 1964 to 1966 and passed away on January 11, 1966, shortly after signing the Tashkent Pact with Pakistan. As a visionary leader, Shastri was influenced by Gandhi’s political philosophies and was known for his understanding of the people’s needs while guiding the country towards progress.