In fact, it is one of only three national holidays in the country, with the other two being its Independence Day and Republic Day. (The latter is when the country’s constitution went into effect.)

Known as Gandhi Jayanti—“Jayanti” translates to “anniversary”—the day is observed with prayer services and tributes all over India, especially at Gandhi’s memorial, Raj Ghat in New Delhi, where he was cremated following his assassination in 1948.

“Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram,” Gandhi’s favorite Bhajan (Hindu devotional song), is usually widely sung throughout the day in his memory, while many people travel throughout the different states and territories of the country to decorate statues and busts of the beloved social activist with flowers and garlands. Schools hold painting and essay competitions leading up to the day, while teachers impart the tenets of his ideology, philosophy and life story onto students.

Last year’s 150th anniversary of Gandhi’s birth was a particularly large celebration, but every year in India the community at large spreads his message of non-violence to celebrate Mahatma’s historic life and efforts to bring independence to India from the United Kingdom.

Even while at home or at gatherings, Gandhi devotees follow his example and avoid drinking alcohol or eating meat on the day.

This year, Hindus, Indians, or anyone simply inspired by Gandhi’s life and teachings can celebrate Gandhi Jayanti virtually. To discourage large gatherings during the COVID-19 pandemic, Canada’s Simon Fraser University and the Thakore Charitable Foundation are presenting an online event today.

Another resource for those wishing to celebrate his birthday, or to learn more about his life is the National Gandhi Museum in New Delhi. Its website contains a huge trove of videos, photographs and even a few ringtones.

Far from being an India-only observance, today’s date was also declared the International Day of Non-Violence by the United Nations General Assembly in 2007, in Gandhi’s memory. In its declaration at that time, the U.N. stated the purpose of marking the day as such was “to secure a culture of peace, tolerance, understanding and non-violence” and to encourage governments, non-governmental organizations and individuals all over the world to commemorate the day through education and public awareness.