In a momentous event held today, September 4, 2023, President Droupadi Murmu of India unveiled a towering 12-foot-high statue of Mahatma Gandhi and inaugurated ‘Gandhi Vatika’ at Gandhi Darshan in New Delhi. The occasion was marked by profound reflections on Mahatma Gandhi’s extraordinary influence on the world and his enduring relevance in today’s context.
Speaking at the ceremony, President Murmu paid tribute to the Mahatma, emphasizing his role as a global beacon of wisdom and non-violence. She noted that Gandhi’s ideals and values have not only reshaped India but have also provided a transformative direction to the entire world. At a time when the world was ravaged by hatred and discord during the world wars, Gandhi’s commitment to non-violence and truth served as a guiding light.
President Murmu underscored that Gandhiji’s experiments with truth and non-violence earned him a status as a great human being. His statues grace numerous countries, and people worldwide continue to uphold his ideals. The President cited exemplary leaders like Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King Jr., and Barack Obama, who drew inspiration from Gandhiji’s path of truth and non-violence for the betterment of humanity. She emphasized that following the path of peace and non-violence shown by Mahatma Gandhi can lead to the realization of global harmony.
Gandhiji’s emphasis on sanctity in both public and personal life was another aspect highlighted by President Murmu. His belief that violence could be countered only through moral strength remains a profound insight. She emphasized the importance of self-confidence, especially in today’s rapidly changing and competitive world.
President Murmu reiterated that Gandhiji’s ideals and values continue to hold immense relevance for India and its society. She called upon all citizens, particularly the youth and children, to immerse themselves in Gandhiji’s teachings. The role of institutions like Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti was deemed crucial in this endeavor. President Murmu suggested that such institutions can significantly contribute to building the India envisioned by Gandhiji by using various media such as books, films, seminars, and cartoons to acquaint the youth and children with Gandhian principles.
