As I reflect on Rosh Hashana, Gandhi Jayanti, and Daan Utsav—three powerful events that overlap this week—I am struck by how deeply connected they are, despite their different cultural and religious roots. Each of these occasions invites us to pause, look inward, and find ways to give back to the world around us. Their values—renewal, service, and kindness—feel universal. I believe they offer something meaningful to all of us, regardless of where we come from.
Rosh Hashana, the Jewish New Year, has always felt like an opportunity for a fresh start. It’s a time for deep introspection, where we look back on the year behind us and consider how we want to move forward. The focus is on self-renewal, acknowledging where we’ve fallen short, and committing to doing better. For me, one of the most meaningful aspects of this time is the emphasis on kindness, compassion, and responsibility toward others. Giving during this season, whether through charity or acts of kindness, becomes a way to reset our hearts and reconnect with our fellow human beings. The process of giving itself feels like a renewal of the soul, aligning us with the values that matter most.
In India, Gandhi Jayanti honors the birth of Mahatma Gandhi and is one of the country’s three national holidays. Gandhi, a figure whose life embodied selflessness and service, dedicated himself to justice through humility and nonviolence. His philosophy of "Sarvodaya," or the upliftment of all, reminds us that service isn’t just an act; it’s a way of life. When we serve others, especially those who are struggling, we’re not just helping them—we are also transforming ourselves in the process. Gandhi Jayanti, for me, is a reminder of how powerful simple, sincere acts of kindness can be, and how much they can change the world around us. Gandhi’s legacy teaches us that service, in its purest form, is a pathway to personal and societal change.
Also in India, Daan Utsav—the Joy of Giving Week—deeply resonates with me. There’s something profoundly moving about dedicating an entire week to acts of giving, whether through donations, volunteering, or small, thoughtful gestures. What I love about Daan Utsav is the genuine happiness that comes with giving, not because we feel obligated, but because there’s true joy in helping others. In my own life, I’ve found that moments when I’ve given—whether my time, resources, or simply a listening ear—have been some of the most fulfilling. There’s a special kind of contentment that comes from giving selflessly, and it’s this spirit that Daan Utsav captures so beautifully.
When I think about Rosh Hashana, Gandhi Jayanti, and Daan Utsav together, I realize they share a common thread: each event, in its unique way, asks us to step beyond ourselves, to consider how we can serve others, and to find renewal through that process. Whether through tzedakah (charity and service) during Rosh Hashana, honoring Gandhi’s legacy of service to the poor, or participating in Daan Utsav, these moments remind us that service is a powerful way to connect not only with others, but also with ourselves.
As we move through this season, let us embrace the call for introspection, renewal, and service. Let us continually renew ourselves and recommit to the joy of giving.
In the spirit of these powerful events, all of us at Gabriel Project Mumbai wish you a year filled with reflection, renewal, and meaningful service to others. Through these actions, we hope to find deeper connection and purpose, in ways that truly matter.
