'Gandhi, Shastri Jayanti': PM Modi recalls values of truth, service

October 2 once again brought together the legacies of two of India’s most revered leaders, Mahatma Gandhi and former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi paying tribute to both on their birth anniversaries and recalling values that continue to shape the country’s public life.
On Gandhi Jayanti, PM Modi remembered Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals of truth, non-violence, simplicity, compassion and Swadeshi, saying the Mahatma’s message continues to have relevance far beyond India. In a post on X, he said, “May Bapu’s timeless message keep guiding us towards a better society and a Viksit Bharat.”
In a video message, Modi said, “The ideology of Mahatma Gandhi has inspired the entire world.” He also urged people to promote Swadeshi by purchasing Khadi products on October 2.He said, “Gandhi Ji always promoted Swadeshi, and Khadi was one of its most prominent symbols. I would request you all to buy any Khadi product on October 2 and proudly say, ‘This is Swadeshi’.

May Bapu’s timeless message keep guiding us towards a better society and a Viksit Bharat. #GandhiJayanti pic.twitter.com/nEISzsM37X

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 2, 2026

In another message, Modi described Gandhi’s life as an enduring source of inspiration, saying, “The entire life of revered Bapu is a beacon of truth, non-violence, compassion, and service that will continue to pave the way for humanity in every era.”Gandhi Jayanti is also marked globally as the International Day of Non-Violence.
Shastri’s simplicity, resolve and ‘Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan’
The same day also marked the birth anniversary of Lal Bahadur Shastri, India’s second Prime Minister, whose life is remembered for simplicity, humility, dedication and determination.
PM Modi paid homage to Shastri at Vijay Ghat in New Delhi and recalled his contribution to the nation. In a post on X, he said, “Homage to Lal Bahadur Shastri Ji, whose simplicity and dedication to the nation remain deeply inspiring.”In a video message, Modi recalled Shastri’s iconic slogan, “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan,” and its message to the country’s soldiers and farmers.“Lal Bahadur Shastri came and gave the message of ‘Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan’. Every farmer stood up,” PM Modi said.

Homage to Lal Bahadur Shastri Ji, whose simplicity and dedication to the nation remain deeply inspiring. pic.twitter.com/edMiRdsf0v

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 2, 2026

Recalling Shastri’s personality and leadership, Modi said, “From taking the name of Lal Bahadur Shastri, a feeling of immense reverence arises in our minds. His gentle personality fills every citizen with great pride.”
He also highlighted the contrast between Shastri’s humble personality and his determination, saying, “Lal Bahadur Shastri’s speciality was that from the outside, he appeared humble, but from within, he was determined like a rock.”The Prime Minister further recalled Shastri’s contribution alongside the country’s farmers and soldiers.“He, in just one-and-a-half years, together with the farmers and soldiers, gave the mantra to achieve success,” PM Modi added.
Union Education Minister Pralhad Joshi also remembered Shastri and said his simplicity, humility and decisive leadership continued to inspire the nation.“Remembering former Prime Minister Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri ji on his birth anniversary. His simplicity, humility and decisive leadership continue to inspire the nation,” Joshi said.

Remembering former Prime Minister Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri ji on his birth anniversary. His simplicity, humility and decisive leadership continue to inspire the nation. His unwavering commitment to the country and his deep faith in the strength of our farmers and soldiers remain… pic.twitter.com/GcdJeUemzP

— Pralhad Joshi (@JoshiPralhad) October 2, 2026

Several other senior leaders also paid tribute to Shastri, recalling his simplicity, dedication to public service and the continuing relevance of his famous slogan, ‘Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan’.