About Mahatma Gandhi Ji and Lal Bahadur Shastri Ji

Celebrating the Legacy of Mahatma Gandhi Ji and Lal Bahadur Shastri Ji 

An informative article by 

Mr. Shubham K Pandey 

(Founder of Illuminate Biology)

About Mahatma Gandhi Ji- 

Mahatma Gandhi was a true icon in Indian history, playing a pivotal role in the country's struggle for independence from British rule. Born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, India, Gandhi's life journey was marked by his unwavering commitment to nonviolent resistance and his vision for a self-ruling India.

*Early Life and Education*

Gandhi's upbringing in a Hindu family in coastal Gujarat shaped his values and principles. He studied law at the Inner Temple in London, becoming a barrister in 1891. However, his early attempts at establishing a law practice in India were unsuccessful, leading him to move to South Africa in 1893.

*Civil Rights Activism in South Africa*

In South Africa, Gandhi faced discrimination and racism, which sparked his activism for civil rights. He spent 21 years in the country, developing his political views and ethics ¹. Gandhi's experiences in South Africa laid the foundation for his future leadership in India's independence movement.

*Leadership and Legacy*

Gandhi returned to India in 1915 and soon became the leader of the Indian National Congress. He championed causes like easing poverty, expanding women's rights, and promoting religious harmony. His nonviolent resistance methods, including the famous Dandi Salt March in 1930, inspired movements worldwide.

*Personal Life*

Gandhi's personal life was marked by simplicity and self-discipline. He married Kasturbai Gokuldas Kapadia at the age of 13 and had four sons. Gandhi's vow to abstain from meat, alcohol, and women during his time in London reflects his commitment to self-control.

*Assassination and Tribute*

Gandhi's life was tragically cut short when he was assassinated on January 30, 1948, by Nathuram Godse. Gandhi's birthday, October 2, is celebrated as Gandhi Jayanti, a national holiday in India, and the International Day of Nonviolence worldwide.

About Lal Bahadur Shastri Ji- 

Lal Bahadur Shastri was India's second Prime Minister, serving from 1964 to 1966. He was a key figure in India's freedom struggle and later became a national leader, known for his simplicity, integrity, and strong leadership during the Indo-Pak War of 1965.

Born on October 2, 1904, in Mughalsarai, Uttar Pradesh, Shastri's life was marked by his commitment to the nation ¹ ². He was deeply influenced by Mahatma Gandhi and joined the Indian National Congress in 1928 ¹. Shastri's slogan, "Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan" (Hail the Soldier, Hail the Farmer), emphasized the importance of both soldiers and farmers in building and developing the nation.

*Early Life and Education*

Shastri's early education was at the Kashi Vidyapeeth in Varanasi, one of the national institutions set up in defiance of British rule ⁴. He graduated with a degree in philosophy and ethics in 1925 and was awarded the title "Shastri" .

*Achievements and Legacy*

Shastri's achievements include:

- _Promoting White and Green Revolutions_: He supported the Amul milk co-operative and created the National Dairy Development Board to increase milk production and supply.

- _Leading India during the Indo-Pak War_: Shastri's leadership during the 1965 war earned him widespread respect.

- _Empowering Farmers and Soldiers_: His slogan "Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan" remains iconic to this day.

Shastri's life was cut short when he died on January 11, 1966, in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, under mysterious circumstances ¹ ². His legacy continues to inspire Indians, and his birth anniversary, October 2, is celebrated as Lal Bahadur Shastri Jayanti.