Gandhi’s peace work recognized at anniversary ceremony

Oct 03, 2012 News

Mayor of Georgetown Hamilton Green amongst special invitees offering floral tributes to Gandhi’s statue on his 143th birth anniversary.

The High Commission of India celebrated the 143th birth anniversary of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi yesterday at the Promenade Gardens, Middle Street, Georgetown, where floral tributes were offered.
Attending the event were Prime Minister, Samuel Hinds; City Mayor, Hamilton Green; Member of Parliament, Ronald Bulkan and President of the Indian Commemoration Trust, Dr. Yesu Persaud, among others.
Gandhi (1869-1948), known more popularly as “Mahatma”, according to India’s High Commissioner to Guyana, Puran Mal Meena, was an apostle of non-violence, and an architect and father of the nation of India.
He said Gandhi was subjected to all forms of violence and racism in his lifetime. His spirit to fight injustice through non-violent means was also inculcated by peace activists, Nelson Mandela and Dr Martin Luther King Jr. which offered a new perspective on peaceful protest.
Mayor Green noted that the teachings of Gandhi must not only be regurgitated on the anniversary, but the true teachings must be adopted to enhance the lives of citizens.
“Gandhi left behind a legacy of non-violence…are we heeding his call? These ceremonies will be sterile and in fact useless, unless when we leave here after paying respects, convert our philosophy from violence to non-violence.”
According to Green, the newspapers show that violence is even being perpetuated by the state apparatus and that it has reached a level that even those who are suppose to protect are violating that trust.
“I recommend that the High Commission collaborate with the University of Peace Studies, Universal Peace Federation so that we can inculcate into the minds of our young people, the value of non-violence…so that we bequeath our succeeding generations a life and world that is kinder and more loving following the path of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi.”
Representing the People’s National Congress/Reform (PNC/R) and Leader of the Party, MP Ronald Bulkan said Gandhi was a great person that played an important role in the Indian independence movement.
The MP noted that Gandhi developed the talent of non-violent agitation which he called Satyagraha, and his efforts were instrumental in India gaining its independence.
Meanwhile, according to the Prime Minister, Gandhi has also inspired Guyanese in his efforts to protect without distinction of as to race, colour or creed which are the fundamental basic rights of every woman, man and child.
“Lessons leant from Mahatma Gandhi’s approach to social changes are no less relevant in today’s world where the absence of peace in many troubled parts of the world creates immense suffering to human kind. Today more than ever there is a great call for non-violence and continued dialogue to sustain peace, unity and brotherhood… key elements for sustainable development.”
The ruling People’s Progressive Party (PPP) in its message said that Gandhi’s entire life was dedicated towards the struggle to liberate people from physical and mental oppression.
“The People’s Progressive Party remains committed towards further building Guyana by continuing to embrace the policies of Mahatma Gandhi that will benefit all Guyanese, regardless of race, colour or creed.”

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