This Gandhi Jayanti 2025, we celebrate the life of Mahatma Gandhi, the man whose principles of truth and non-violence changed the course of history. Observed every year on 2 October, Gandhi Jayanti honours the “Father of the Nation” and reminds us of his extraordinary journey from a shy young boy in India to a global icon of peace. While most know him as the leader of India’s independence movement, Gandhi’s life was filled with surprising adventures, little-known struggles, and fascinating moments that shaped the man behind the legend. On this special day, let us uncover 7 amazing facts about Mahatma Gandhi that are not commonly known.
7 Unknown Facts on Gandhi Jayanti 2025
His Name Wasn’t Mahatma
Contrary to popular belief, Gandhi’s first name was Mohandas. “Mahatma,” meaning “great soul,” was a title of respect given to him by a friend, Pranjivan Mehta. It first appeared in a letter in 1909, long before the world knew him.
Married at Thirteen
At just thirteen, Gandhi married fourteen-year-old Kasturbai Kapadia in an arranged marriage. Gandhi later recalled that their idea of marriage was simple—wearing new clothes, eating sweets, and playing with relatives. Their first child was born when Gandhi was sixteen, but sadly died after a few days. Four more children survived to adulthood.
In London During Jack the Ripper
While studying law in London, Gandhi arrived during the infamous Jack the Ripper killings. He mingled with Victorian society, took dancing lessons, joined the Vegetarian Society, and worked on its committee with Arnold Hills, who later founded West Ham United football club.
Struggled with Stage Fright
Gandhi was shy and often nervous about speaking in public. During a debate at the London Vegetarian Society, someone else had to read his arguments. His first attempt at cross-examining a witness failed, but he learned and grew from the experience.
First Civil Rights Activist in South Africa
Before fighting for Indian independence, Gandhi faced racism in South Africa in 1893. Being thrown off a first-class train despite having a ticket made him fight against discrimination. He founded an organisation to challenge racial injustice and even survived an attack by a white mob.
Helped the British Empire
Surprisingly, Gandhi also served the British during the Boer War, forming the Natal Indian Ambulance Corps to help wounded soldiers. He believed that as a British citizen, he had a duty to participate in defence while still seeking rights.
Tragic Betrayal by a Fellow Hindu
Mahatma Gandhi met a tragic end not at the hands of an outsider but by someone from his own community. Nathuram Godse, a Hindu nationalist, was angered by Gandhi’s conciliatory approach towards Pakistan. On 30 January 1948, after multiple failed attempts, Godse fatally shot Gandhi, leaving the nation in shock and mourning.
