Imphal, Feb 15 (UNI) Mahatma Gandhi is recognized as the Father of this great nation and was an exceptional leader and human being.
He has influenced and inspired both individuals and world leaders in the fight against inequality and oppression, and has provided an invaluable contribution to peaceful freedom struggles across the world.
These were stated by Governor Dr Najma Heptulla at the inaugural function of a Seminar held under the theme - “Mahatma Gandhi’s Inclusive Approach to Humanity” to celebrate his 150th Birth Anniversary, organized by Ahimsa Vishwa Bharti at Raj Bhawan.
She said “ Mahatma Gandhi’s struggle was first and foremost for the freedom and independence of the people of India. But his message was also one of universal relevance. His voice for humanity, equality, justice and non violence gained global recognition. In 2007, Mahatma Gandhi’s birthday, the 2nd of October, was declared by the United Nations as the International Day of Non Violence, and is today celebrated all over the globe. Despite grand thoughts, his was a life of austerity, tolerance, courage and struggle.”
She further said Mahatma was a person who stood up for what he believed in and who lived as he preached. He spent a total of approximately five years in prison and was imprisoned six times in South Africa and seven times in India. All are for freedom, human rights and justice she added.
His philosophy and devotion strongly inspired the human rights movement of the 20th century. Today, this movement is under renewed pressure in all corners of the world. In many cases, conflict still persists along religious and ethnic lines, often within the borders of Nation States.
Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of an independent India based on religious
pluralism was initially challenged by separatist forces based on religion, eventually leading to the partition of India, at a great human cost she further said.
Today, Gandhi’s vision of an inclusive, secular India continues to be challenged, despite India’s fundamentally multi religious fabric. In this time of uncertainty and disruption, the celebration of Gandhi’s 150th Birth Anniversary is a reminder of the continued relevance of his teachings and of their importance all over the world she said.
She said we are celebrating a remarkable man, whose achievements should continue to inspire us, both as leaders and individuals.
UNI NS RN