SOURCE: FFL.ORG
Today, we celebrate the birth of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, a pivotal figure in the Indian independence movement and a global symbol of non-violence. Born on October 2, 1869, Gandhi’s legacy continues to inspire peace and justice movements worldwide.
and influential men of the modern era, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, born October 2, 1869.
Gandhi led India to independence through non-violent civil disobedience, a method that has inspired countless global movements for civil rights and freedom. His birthday is a reminder to reflect on and act towards peace.
movement in British-ruled India. Employing non-violent civil disobedience, he led India to independence and inspired movements for civil rights and freedom across the world. Today he is still revered for these actions and is most often associated with all kinds of movement and causes for peace, animal right and vegetarianism.
Few know that Russian philosopher Leo Tolstoy greatly influenced Gandhi. Their correspondence on non-violence and passive resistance shaped Gandhi’s philosophy, making his birthday an ideal time to explore these ideas.
Leo Tolstoy was a key influence in Gandhi’s life. He once wrote, “A Letter to a Hindu,” in which he said that only by using love as a weapon through passive resistance could the Indian people overthrow colonial rule. In 1909, Gandhi wrote to Tolstoy seeking advice and permission to republish his “A Letter to a Hindu” in Gujarati. Tolstoy responded and the two continued a correspondence until Tolstoy’s death in 1910 (Tolstoy’s last letter was to Gandhi). The letters concern practical and theological applications of non-violence. Gandhi saw himself a disciple of Tolstoy, for they agreed regarding opposition to state authority and colonialism; both hated violence and preached non-resistance.
In honor of Gandhi’s birthday, the Farm Animal Rights Movement (FARM) established World Farmed Animals Day, highlighting Gandhi’s advocacy for animal rights and vegetarianism.
an event in honour of Gandhi’s birthday called World Farmed Animals Day, a day dedicated to exposing and memorializing the needless suffering and slaughter of farmed animals.
Most recently, there has been a campaign spreading through social media for people to fast today in memory of the tens of billions of animals killed ever year. Although this is certainly noble, the question must be asked: Is that the best we can do? Will this actually help? My feeling is it won’t have as much impact as people assume. Simply because the powerful corporations that run this world will continue pushing for more and more animal agriculture and one day of lower sales is not going to halt that momentum.
Instead of only fasting, consider supporting organizations like Food for Life Global and Paramatma Animal Sanctuary. These actions align with Gandhi’s vision of a peaceful world and make a lasting impact.
, which is essentially inaction. Why not support causes like Food for Life Global and Paramatma Animal Sanctuary that are taking action to change the way people eat and think about food. Here is your check list today. The more ticks you add here, the greater your actions will be today in creating the peaceful world men like Gandhi and Tolstoy dreamed about.
FAQ
Q: How can I honor Gandhi’s birthday meaningfully?
A: Honor Gandhi’s birthday by engaging in activities that promote peace and non-violence. Support organizations like Food for Life Global, participate in World Farmed Animals Day, or educate others about Gandhi’s teachings on civil disobedience and animal rights.
Q: What is the significance of Gandhi’s birthday?
A: Gandhi’s birthday, celebrated on October 2nd, is a day to remember his contributions to the Indian independence movement and his global influence on civil rights and non-violence. It is an opportunity to reflect on his teachings and apply them to current social issues.
Q: Why is World Farmed Animals Day associated with Gandhi’s birthday?
A: World Farmed Animals Day is observed on Gandhi’s birthday to honor his commitment to animal rights and vegetarianism. The day aims to raise awareness about the suffering of farmed animals and encourage compassionate living, reflecting Gandhi’s principles.
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