Follow Gandhi’s ideals of simplicity, harmony with nature, says Indian High Commissioner
KUALA LUMPUR: People are advised to follow Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals of simplicity, harmony with nature and self-awareness to make the world a happier, peaceful and prosperous place, said Indian High Commissioner to Malaysia, Mridul Kumar.
In his special message in conjunction with the 150th Birth Anniversary of Gandhi, which is observed today (Oct 2), Mridul highlighted that Gandhi’s vision of ‘VasudhaivaKutumbakam’ (which means the whole world is one single family) is an aspiration for a globalised, interconnected world, while respecting and preserving diversity and promoting tolerance.
“(It is important to note) the relevance of Gandhi’s principles and ideals of simplicity, harmony with nature and self-awareness, especially in the context of the (COVID-19) global pandemic,” he said in a statement issued by the Indian High Commission to Bernama.
The United Nations General Assembly on June 15, 2007, unanimously adopted a resolution to declare Gandhi’s birth anniversary on Oct 2 as the International Day of Non-Violence.
The late Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, who is fondly known as the Father of the Nation, was born on Oct 2, 1869. He led India to independence in 1947 and inspired movements for civil rights and freedom across the world.
Gandhi was on his way to a prayer meeting when he was shot three times in the chest and died on Jan 30, 1948.
His unique strategy of ‘satyagraha’ or passive resistance earned him the admiration of millions throughout the world.
Meanwhile, Mridul said Gandhi’s birth anniversary celebrations this year were observed through a virtual platform in compliance with the Recovery Movement Control Order (RMCO) and prevailing standard operating procedures (SOPs) due to the COVID-19 situation in Malaysia.
During the event, a fascinating video based on Gandhi’s quotes was performed in the form of a story by the children of the members of the Bharat Club besides presentation of Kathak dance repertoire, highlighting the teachings of Gandhi.
A digital exhibition on the life and times of Gandhi is also available on the website of the High Commission of India in Malaysia.
— BERNAMA
