Vice president Mohd Hamid Ansari and Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh led the nation on Friday to pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi, the apostle of peace, on his 140th birth anniversary. Leaders cutting across the political spectrum visited the Rajghat, the Samadhi of Bapu to join the all-party prayer meeting. UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Leader of Opposition L K Advani were among the prominent persons who offered floral tributes at Rajghat.External Affairs Minister S M Krishna, Defence Minister A K Antony, Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit also visited the memorial to offer their respects. US Ambassador Timothy G Roemer also offered floral tributes at Rajghat. A number of foreign dignitaries were also present. Several functions are being organised across the country and welfare programmes launched to mark the occasion. The Gram Nayalaya Act is coming to force from Friday to ensure justice for the people at their doorstep. The Panchayati Raj also completes its 50 years on Friday. The birthday of Mahatma is also being observed as the International day for non-violence. UN Secretary General Ban Ki Moon in his message said that Gandhi’s life inspired the UN to strive to rid the world of the weapons of mass destruction. US President Barack Obama said America of today has its roots in the India of Mahatma Gandhi. President Obama said Americans owe enormous gratitude to Gandhi as his teachings and ideals, shared with Martin Luther King Jr., transformed American society through civil rights movement. He said that Americans join the people of India in celebrating the birthday of this great soul who dedicated his life to justice and tolerance for all and creating change through non-violent resistance.Glowing tributes are also being paid to the former Prime Minister of India and noted Gandhian Lal Bahadur Shastri . Floral tributes were offered at his memorial on Friday morning. Lal Bahadur Shastri Memorial is organising function in the capital this evening.