Beginning in 2007, the United Nations declared that the International Day of Non-Violence would take place on 2nd October. This annual event highlights the the principle of non-violence and the worldwide desire for peace, and is held on the birthday of Mohandas Gandhi. It is often known as Ahimsa Day because the Jain concept of ahiṃsā influenced Gandhi’s non-violent approach to gaining Indian independence. Since 2002 Jains in the UK have marked Ahimsa Day.