Gandhi Jayanti is an Indian holiday that falls annually on October 2nd to mark the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, also known as the Father of the Nation, Bapu or Mahatma. Gandhi was a political ethicist, nationalist, and lawyer who dedicated his life to the freedom of the nation and advocated for the path of peace, truth, and non-violence. The day is celebrated to honor his role in the Indian independence movement and to promote peace, harmony, and unity worldwide. The United Nations also celebrates the day as International Day of Non-Violence. On this day, awards are granted for projects in schools and the community encouraging a nonviolent way of life as well as celebrating Gandhis effort in the Indian independence movement. Statues of Mahatma Gandhi throughout the country are decorated with flowers and garlands, and some people avoid drinking alcohol or eating meat on the day. Public buildings, banks, and post offices are closed. In 2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi started the Swachh Bharat Mission on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, and its second phase started on Gandhi Jayanti 2021.