152nd Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi celebrated
October 2, 2021
Hon’ble Vice President of India, Shri M Venkaiah Naidu and Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi offered rich tributes to Mahatma Gandhi in Gandhi Smriti on October 2, 2021 on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, commemorating the 152nd birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and International Day of Non-Violence. Vice Chairman Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti, Shri Vijay Goel welcomed the VVIPS in Gandhi Smriti at the inter-faith prayer meet. Shri G Kishan Reddy, Hon’ble Minister of Culture; Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal, Hon’ble Minister of State for Culture; Smt. Meenakshi Lekhi, Hon’ble Minister of State for Culture; former Vice President, Dr. Mohd Hamid Ansari; former Health Minister Dr. Harshvardhan; granddaughter of Mahatma Gandhi, Smt. Tara Gandhi Bhattacharjee; grandson of Mahatma Gandhi, Shri Shrikrishna Kulkarni, senior Gandhians, Representatives from various embassies and High Commissions along with their spouse from the Embassy of Greece, Argentina, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Egypt, people from different walks of like took part in the evening prayer and offered their tributes in their own solemn way. Amongst others who joined included Shri Partha Sarthi Sen Sharma, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Culture and Secretaries and other officials from the Ministry of Statistics and Niti Ayog.
The evening prayer meet began with 15 artists from All India Radio and 200 school children from twenty different schools of Delhi and NCR presenting a musical tribute to the Father of the Nation. This musical tribute was organized by GSDS in collaboration with the All India Radio, Delhi.
Inter-faith prayer by leaders from different religious groups such as Buddhism, Christian, Islam, Zoroastrianism, Sikhism, Judaism, Bahai, Shabad Kirtan marked the commemorative programme. Led by senior Gandhian and former EC Member GSDS, Shri Laxmi Dass, spinners spun on the charkha during the programme.
Dr. Yasmin Ali Haque, UNICEF representative on behalf of the United Nations in India read out the message of the UN Secretary General, H.E. Mr. Antonio Guterres. The extract of the message is as under:
It is no coincidence that we mark the International Day of Non-Violence on the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi.
For Gandhi, non-violence, peaceful protest, dignity and equality were more than words. They represented a guiding light for humanity, a map to a better future.
They also provide a template to address today’s troubled times. Conflicts and climate change. Poverty and inequalities. Mistrust and divisions. All under the shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic, which continues to devastate people and economies alike.
The solution to these challenges is in our hands: solidarity. We need to recognize, as Gandhi did, that what unites us is far greater than what divides us. That peace provides the only pathway to a better future for all.
Addressing the challenges of our world means coming together as one human family, and embracing peace like never before.
We call on combatants around the world to lay down their arms and focus on defeating humanity’s common enemy — COVID-19 — not one another. We urgently need to deliver lifesaving vaccines and treatment, and support countries in the long road to recovery ahead.
We need to intensify our work to reduce inequalities and end poverty.
We need a bold global plan of action to heal our planet.
Most of all, we need to renew trust in one another. Hatred, division, conflict and mistrust have had their day. It is time to usher in a new era of peace, trust and tolerance.
On this International Day of Non-Violence, let us heed Gandhi’s message of peace, and get down to the business of building a better and more peaceful future for all.
Renditions of songs dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi and peace reverberated in the prayer ground in Gandhi Smriti as Padma Shri Hans Raj Hans led the bhakti sangeet on the occasion. Favourite hymns of Mahatma Gandhi and Ram Dhun were also sung on the occasion.
Young spinners take the thread of hope ahead in Safderjung Tomb
October 2, 2021
Shri G Kishan Reddy, Hon’ble Minister of Culture; Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal, Hon’ble Minister of State for Culture; Smt. Meenakshi Lekhi, Hon’ble Minister of State for Culture inaugurated the digital exhibition “Kranti Se Gandhi” curated by Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti in Safderjung Tomb on October 2, 2021 as part of a special programme organized by the Archaeological Survey of India to commemorate the Gandhi Jayanti and Azadi Ka Amrit Mohatsav. They also took part in the charkha spinning demonstration and enjoyed their moments by interacting with the children spinners from Kasturba Balika Vidyalaya, Ishwar Nagar who taught them some nuances of spinning.
The Charkha demonstration was organized by GSDS. Smt. Geeta Shukla, Consultant, GSDS coordinated the programme on behalf of the GSDS. Ms. Sashi Prabha, Ms. Namrata Mishra, Ms. Neha Arora, Shri Ganesh, Shri Deepak Tiwari from GSDS took part in the programme.
Renowned classical singer, Ms. Sukriti Sen rendered favourite bhajans of Mahatma Gandhi and also presented patriotic songs on the occasion.
Initiatives with MCD Delhi launched by Vice Chairman GSDS
October 2, 2021
In a joint press statement issued by Vice Chairman Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti, Shri Vijay Goel, along with the three mayors of Delhi, Raja Iqbal Singh, Mukesh Suryan, Shyam Sundar Agarwal on September 2021, launched several initiatives as part of Gandhi Jayanti and Azadi Ka Amrit Mohatsav. Gandhiji laid great emphasis on cleanliness in his thoughts. In a meeting held in Gandhi Smriti, it was decided with the three mayors of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi that about 2000 schools of the three municipal corporations, including:
1. About 700 schools in the Northern Municipal Corporation
2. Around 582 Schools of Southern Municipal Corporation
3. Around 350 Schools of Eastern Municipal Corporation
There will be a cleanliness fortnight in all these schools, in which each volunteer will be made in-charge of each school. He will get the cleanliness done with the cooperation of everyone in the school and will also get the other unnecessary junk removed. After this, wherever there is a need, not only will paint, paint, etc. be done, but the children's furniture, swings etc. will also be fixed.
Awards will be given to the schools with the best cleanliness in all three municipal corporations by Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti. Children will also be told about this campaign in online classes. The school staff and parents of the neighborhood will also participate in this campaign.
The other highlight of this is the Fancy dress contest - In this a fancy dress competition will be organized for children in the age group of 02 to 10 years, in which children will wear different avatars of Gandhiji. Their photos will be uploaded on the video portal, the link of which will be released on October 1, 2021. Attractive prizes will be given to the most liked pictures.
Jingle Competition - This is a competition of Jingles on Gandhiji and his philosophy. In this, a one minute video in MP3 format will have to be uploaded on the portal, the link of which will be released on 1st October. Attractive prizes will be given to the 1st, 2nd and 3rd prize winners.
These children's competitions will be promoted through online classes on the My GOV Website, Gandhi Smriti and the children of municipal schools. All the participants will be given a digital certificate by the Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti and the concerned Municipal Corporation.
Gandhi Quiz and Video Competition on Non Violent Communication organized with North Municipal Corporation of Delhi
October 2 -11, 2021
As part of the Gandhi Jayanti celebrations and Azadi Ka Amrit Mohatsav, Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti in association with North Municipal Corporation of Delhi initiated Gandhi Quiz and video competition on their perspectives of “Nonviolent Communication”. This initiative that began from October 2nd continued till October 11, 2021.
Gandhi Quiz launched with Delhi Police Families Welfare Society
October 2-17, 2021
As part of the Gandhi Jayanti celebrations and Azadi Ka Amrit Mohatsav, Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti in association Delhi Police Families Welfare Society launched the on-line “Bapu Quiz” from October 2-17, 2021. Total 430 participants took part in the competition. The winners were selected in two categories – above 20 and below 20 age-groups.
Campaign on NVC organized with Peace Club of Kirori Mal College
October 2, 2021
Peace Club, Kirori Mal College organised “Nonviolent Communication Campaign, from October 2-15, 2021 in collaboration with Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti (GSDS). This initiative is part of GSDS's government certified course on nonviolent communication, available at- https://www.gandhismriti.gov.in/…/orientation-course-nonvio… 30-40 seconds video was invited on the subject.
Dialogue on Nonviolence for Peaceful Coexistence in the modern world
October 5, 2021
Tatsat Chronicle in association with GSDS organized a dialogue on “Nonviolence for Peaceful Coexistence in the Modern World” in Gandhi Darshan, Rajghat, on October 5, 2021. The distinguished guests on the occasion included Smt. Tara Gandhi Bhattacharjee, Chairperson, National Gandhi Museum and former Vice Chairperson GSDS; Padma Vibhushan, Dr. Sonal Mansingh, Shri Satish Upadhyaya, Vice Chairman NDMC; Shri Amond Kanth, Niti Ayog; Shri Gaurav Chaudhury, Co-Founder and CEO, Earshot Media; Ms. Ratan Kaul, Principal Advisor, Tatsat Chronicle, Shri Neeraj Yadav, Para Gold Medalist and others.
Vice Chairman GSDS felicitates Mayors
October 6, 2021
Shri Vijay Goel, Vice Chairman GSDS addressed the gathering of Mayors of East, North and South Delhi in Gandhi Darshan, Rajghat on October 6, 2021 during which he felicitated the Mayors, Councillors, Standing Committee members of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi with the Charkha, Angavastram and books. A guided tour to the Gandhi Darshan Museums, Dome, and Rashtriya Swachchatta Kendra was also organised on the occasion in which Shri Vijay Goel led the group to the Museum. Director GSDS Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan also spoke on the occasion and suggested for collaboration programmes on Gandhian philosophy with the MCD.
Induction Course for newly appointed Judicial Officers on Gandhian Model of Mediation and Contemporary Issue
October 11, 2021
The Samiti organized an “Induction course for newly appointed Judicial Officers on Gandhian Model of Mediation and Contemporary Issue” on October 11, 2021. The programme was organized in association with the Delhi Judicial Academy. The sessions that were conducted for the newly appointed judges included:
i. Gandhian Approach to Conflict Resolution
ii. Gandhian Model of Mediation
iii. Gandhian approach to Mediation and Contemporary Approaches
iv. Gandhian Approach to Indian Legal System.
Sanitation drive at MC Primary Co-Ed School
October 14, 2021
Vice Chairman GSDS Shri Vijay Goel led a sanitation drive at MC Primary Co-Ed School, Bara Hindu Rao Delhi on October 14, 2021 as part of the programmes initiated by GSDS and Municipal Corporation of Delhi. Shri Jay Prakash, Mayor NDMC also joined the campaign and took part in the sanitation drive.
DDUGKY Students show their creativity during Dushehra celebrations
October 15, 2021
80 students of Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushal Yojana took part in the Dushehra celebrations in Gandhi Darshan on October 15, 2021 during which they made various cultural presentations showcasing the traditions of their region. The motivational speech was given by Shri Biswajit Singh and Shri Chandan Gupta. Dr. Manju Aggarwal also spoke on the occasion.
Sanitation drive in Gandhi Smriti
October 20, 2021
Team members of Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan New Delhi conducted a sanitation drive as part of Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan in Gandhi Smriti on October 20, 2021. The team members also offered tributes at the Martyr’s Column in Gandhi Smriti. The programme was hosted by Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti.
Sanitation drive in Gandhi Smriti and Gandhi Darshan
October 23, 2021
As part of the “Swachhatta Pakhwara Week”, the staff members of Gandhi Smriti and Gandhi Darshan respectively participated in a sanitation drive in both the campuses. The staff members joined hands to clean their respective departments with full zeal and enthusiasm.
Sanitation drive by students of DDUGKY in Gandhi Darshan
October 24, 2021
80 students of Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushal Yojana – as part of their training programme in Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti – undertook sanitation drive in Gandhi Darshan campus on October 24, 2021. The students led by Shri Chandan Gupta, Shri Mukund Milind cleaned their dormitories, water coolers and also trimmed the plants of the garden. The temple within the premises was also cleaned by the students.
Tribute to Shri Anshuman Bhargav and Padma Shri Dr. S N Subba Rao
October 27, 2021
Vice Chairman of Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti Shri Vijay Goel along with Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan, Director GSDS led the staff into paying rich tributes to the Administrative Officer of GSDS, Shri Anshuman Bhargav who passed away on October 26, 2021 after a prolonged illness. Shri Anshuman Bhargav, was the state editor of Hitavada news paper (Bhopal and Jabalpur editions). A soft spoken person who joined GSDS as an Administrative Officer on January 2021 was an accomplished journalist. During this brief stint in GSDS till October 26, 2021, Shri Anshuman Bhargav worked continuously for the welfare of the staff and the organization.
Rich tributes were also paid to Padma Shri Dr. S N Subba Rao (February 7, 1929 – October 27, 2021), popularly known as Bhai ji (elder brother). In his passing, a champion of taking Gandhian movement to different streams of the society has been lost. Known for his youthful energy even at the age of 93, Dr. S N Subba Rao has trained over a million youth and people of all age-groups in several of his training camps which he organized or even took part in different corners of the country and abroad.
Sanitation drive in Gandhi Haat
October 28, 2021
Director GSDS, Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan led the staff members of GSDS in a major sanitation drive in Gandhi Haat at Gandhi Darshan on October 28, 2021. This drive was organsied as part of the Swachhatta Pakhwara week celebration.
Principals of different schools of Delhi, NCR and schools from outside Delhi awarded by Shri Vijay Goel
October 30, 2021
On the eve of the Rashtriya Ekta Divas (National Unity Day), commemorating the 146th Birth Anniversary of Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel (October 31, 2021) Vice-Chairman Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti Shri Vijay Goel awarded certificates and symbol of self-reliance charkha to over 200 principals of different private schools of Delhi, NCR and from several other states for their initiative in taking the life’s message and philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi in their respective institutions amongst the students, peer groups and the society at large.
The award ceremony was organized in Satyagraha Mandap, Gandhi Darshan, Rajghat on October 30, 2021 by Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti in collaboration with the Action Committee of unaided Recognized Private Schools.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Vijay Goel expressed hope that this initiative will inspire more such schools to generate awareness amongst students on Mahatma Gandihi’s principles of love, truth, service and sanitation so that they imbibe them in their daily lives.
He further invited all the schools to conceive a grand programme as part of the 75th year of India’s Independence where honourable Prime Minister of India could be invited as a Chief Guest.
Calling it a “Huge responsibility” that the teachers and principals share on their shoulder to develop a child’s personality in the service of the nation, Shri Vijay Goel extended invitation to the schools to send their children to visit both the museums at both Gandhi Smriti and Gandhi Darshan.
Earlier, Director GSDS, Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan expressed the need to bring the young and vibrant Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi before the young children and educate them on the dynamism that Mahatma Gandhi showed in his youth in different fields.
Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan said, “Through this initiative, Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti plans to expand the programmes and activities with different institutions of ‘Taking Gandhi to Schools’”.
A Bharatnatyam performance by the children was another highlight of the programme.
Run for Unity 2021 flagged off by Shri Vijay Goel
October 31, 2021
Vice Chairman Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti and former Union Sports Minister Shri Vijay Goel flagged off the Run For Unity 2021 from Gandhi Darshan, Rajghat on October 31, 2021. 500 runners from different parts of Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Sikkim, Palwal and even in their individual capacity took part in the Run for Unity 2021 commemorating the 146th Birth Anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel which is celebrated every year as National Unity Day (Rashtriya Ekta Divas). This programme was organized by Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti and Health Fitness Trust as part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mohatsav, celebrating the 75th year of India’s Independence.
The ten kilometer Champions Run for Unity for which cash prizes were also awarded by Health Fitness Trust saw an overwhelming participation of runners in different age groups from six years Vaibhav Chaudhary to 71 years Vinay Juneja.
Shri Vijay Goel also awarded the teams for their excellence in sports and becoming the torch bearers of mission ‘Fit India’ that was launched by honourable Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi on August 29, 2019.
Addressing the runners, Shri Vijay Goel appreciated Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti and Health Fitness Trust for choosing October 31, the birthday of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel for organizing the Run For Unity. “It was Sardar Patel, who played the most vital role in integrating the princely states into one umbrella and established a sense of nationalism and patriotism in them and this festival of bringing more than 500 people will to re-affirm the inherent strength and resilience of our nation in remaining fit and dedicating our services for national cause”.
Calling it a great tribute to Sardar Patel on the 75th year of India’s Independence, Shri Vijay Goel said, “We are celebrating nation’s togetherness”.
Race Director and former Asian Marathon Champion Dr. Sunita Godara, who is the founder Director of Health Fitness Trust, thanked Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti for supporting their cause of taking the message unity and national integrity to a large spectrum of the society. Reiterating the mission of Fit India as underlined by Shri Narendra Modi, Dr. Godara said, “Our aim is to promote fitness with fun and also spreading awareness through various mediums like yoga, dance, music and thereby engage people of different age groups in creative pursuits whereby we channelize their energy for positive thinking”.
The other attraction of the programme was a thematic musical presentation on Gandhiji’s principles and teachings by young children from Guru Abhyas. A thematic show on Sardar Patel by Health Fitness Trust Zumba Fitness was the other attraction that encouraged the runners.
Integrity Pledge administered as part of Vigilance Awareness Week
October 30, 2021
Director GSDS, Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan administered the ‘pledge of integrity’ to the staff members of Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti as part of the Vigilance Awareness Week in Gandhi Darshan on October 30, 2021. The pledge underlined the following:
i. To follow probity and rule of law in all walks of life
ii. To neither take nor offer bribe
iii. To perform all tasks in an honest and transparent manner
iv. To act in public interest
v. To lead by example exhibiting integrity in personal behavior and
vi. To report any incident of corruption to the appropriate agency.
PROGRAMME IN OTHER STATES
• BIHAR
Children and youth joint together to pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi
October 2, 2021
On October 2, 2021, various district level programs and various competitions were organized among the students of schools and colleges in MP High School, Dumra, Sitamarhi. This programme was organized under the joint aegis of Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti and Gandhi Vichar Manch Sitamarhi.
Children presented speeches, songs, poems and dances on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti at Rajnandan Kala Bhawan of Udakishunganj subdivision. Everyone was fascinated by children who dressed like Gandhiji. Justice Shri Shiv Kumar, Shri Abhimanyu Kumar from Udakishunganj Court, SDM Shri Rajiv Ranjan Sinha, DCLR Shri Kundan Kumar, DSP Shri Satish Kumar were present as chief guests.
Children from Government schools participated in the programme. The welcome dance of NDAV Public School captivated everyone. Shri Pranav Kumar of SBJS High School secured the first position in the speech competition. Shri Sundaram Kumar of Middle School Hareli secured second position, while Laxman Kumar of NDAV secured the third position.
In the quiz competition, Ms. Shivani Kumari of Middle School Mehsua got the first prize. Ms. Prachi Singh of NDA V got second and Shri Babu Saheb of Upgraded Middle School Laxmipur got third position. Many children like Nishu Kumari, Naina Kumari, Anant Singh, Prachi Singh, Satyam Kumar, Chhaya Bharti, Aditya Kumar, Shubham Kumar, Annu Kumari, Lavanya Kumari, Krishna Kumar, Goldie Rani, Karishma Kumari, Beauty Kumari etc. participated in various programs. Representative teachers from several institutions were present during the programme.
• KERALA
ST. TERESA’S COLLEGE
Engendering Non-Violence – A Talk
October 2, 2021
Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti, New Delhi in association with the Gandhian Peace and Non Violence Studies Centre (An initiative by the Department of English and Centre for Research, St. Teresa’s College), Kerala conducted a session on Engendering Non- violence as a part of Gandhi Jayanti. Ms. Fiza Jahangir of III BA English Language and Literature delivered the prayer and Ms Aleena Mary welcomed the gathering.
The resource person of the day Dr. MV Bijulal, (Associate Professor, School of International Relations and Politics) stressed on the importance of non violence especially among the youth. He pointed how youngsters resort to violence without thought and how the educational system itself stands helpless before it. He also mentioned the ways in which society suffocates an individual barring them from dreaming or attaining proper freedom in life. His emphasis was on how the principles of non violence can help us in different paths of life. Various cultural events were also part of this session.
Ms. Kavery Anil of II BA English Language and Literature delivered a speech on Relevance of Gandhian Principles in the Contemporary World. In a question-answer session at the end, the resource person answered the students’ questions and also debunked myths on how the past was more non violent, when compared to the present. He stated that there was and still continues to be minorities in our society who are oppressed by the hands of the wealthy.
Ms. Lakshmi KS gave the vote of officially ending the session. The other speakers at the dialogue included: Dr. Latha Nair R (Head of the Department of English at St. Teresa’s), Dr Preethi Kumar (Assistant Prof. of the Department of English at St. Teresa’s), Ms Snigdha Pradeep (Organizing Secretary of Gandhian Peace and Non Violence Studies Centre), Ms. Maxlin M Maxy (Student wing member of the Gandhian Peace and Non violence Studies Centre), Students and faculty of the English Department and the general public.
ALPHONSA COLLEGE, PALA
Video Making Competition on Non Violent Communication launched with St. Alphonsa College
October 2, 2021
As part of the Gandhi Jayanti celebrations and Azadi Ka Amrit Mohatsav, Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti in association with St. Alphonsa College, Pala Kerala organized invited video making competition on “Non Violent Communication” form October 2, 2021 onwards to which they received an overwhelming response.
E-Dialogue on Exploring Nonviolent Communication
October 5, 2021
The Centre for Gandhian Studies of Alphonsa College, Pala, Kerala in association with the GSDS organized a E-dialogue on “Exploring Nonviolent Communication on October 5, 2021. Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu, Programme Officer GSDS was the key speaker on the occasion.
Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu put forth the nuances of non-violent communication for the virtual audience. He opined that non-violent communication is beyond human-to-human interaction, it constitutes factoring various aspects during the process of communication. The role, value, and significance of non-violent communication have increased during the pandemic. Dr. Kundu in his detailed presentation, while explaining why, what, and how of non-violent communication, spoke about few key aspects about the topic: conflict resolution, communication with nature, eco-system, co-existence, techniques of reframing from the normal way, applying emotional intelligence, and using emotional vocabulary, refraining from stereotyping, power of empathy, self-introspection, self-awareness, and self-evaluation.
• COIMBATORE
Video Making Competition on Non Violent Communication launched with Bharathiar University
October 2-12, 2021
As part of the Gandhi Jayanti celebrations and Azadi Ka Amrit Mohatsav, Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti in association with Bharathiar University, Coimbatore organized invited video making competition on “Non Violent Communication” form October 2-12, 2021. Out of the many videos that were received, the following videos of Ms. Sowndarya Velmurugan, MA English, PSGR Krishnammal College for Women, Coimbatore; Ms. Anu Chandra, PhD Scholar, Department of English and Foreign Languages, Bharathiar University; and Naija Alice Koshy, MA English, Department of English and Foreign Languages, Bharathiar University were selected.
• NOIDA, UTTAR PRADESH
Tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on his 152nd Birth Anniversary
October 2, 2021
On the occasion of the 152nd birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi on October 2, 2021 students and the entire academic team of Asian paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi through a small event. Students prepared a presentation on ‘Gandhian Heritage Sites’. 66 students took part in the programme at the Theatre Hall of Asian Law College, NOIDA.
The program started with lighting of lamp and paying tribute to Mahatma Gandhi. It was followed by few words of inspiration by the Principal of Asian Law College. The students presented facts about 39 Gandhi Heritage Sites, an initiative by the Ministry of Culture. The head of department expressed his gratitude for Father of Nation. Then the students of BALLB presented the Song “Vaishnav Jan tau” which was highly appreciated by all. The program continued with address to the gathering by faculty convener for the event. A documentary “Documentary on Gandhi in English” was screened with duration of 18:39 minutes. The program ended with a vote of thanks.
The students developed understanding of following points: In a world of opportunities and challenges, patience is a quality, that may seem difficult to achieve but not impossible. Truth or “Satya” is a concept and a practice that Mahatma Gandhi propagated to a great extent. For him, truth and courage walked hand in hand. If there is truth, then there is no necessity for anyone to fear or display cowardice. Truth may seem challenging at a particular moment of time, but a lie can stain a person for life. This is the greatest of the lessons learnt from Mahatma Gandhi.
• UTTAR PRADESH
Celebrating the Spirit of Gandhi – A dialogue
October 8, 2021
Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti in association with Amity Institute of Education, Amity University, organized an E-dialogue on “The Spirit of Gandhi” on October 2, 2021. Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu, Programme Officer GSDS was the key speaker on the occasion. Prof (Dr) Alka Mudgal, Head, Amity Institute of Education, Amity University took part in the discussion.
Gandhi Jayanti Week Celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm
October 2-7, 2021
Various programmes were organized by the Gandhi Jayanti Samaroh Trust in Gandhi Bhawan, Barabanki, Uttar Pradesh on Gandhi Jayanti week from October 1-7, in collaboration with Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti.
On October 1, 2021, chief guest and eminent Gandhian Shri Ramesh Chandra Sharma, Delhi spoke on the occasion. The session was presided over by Shri K.S. Bhati Former Registrar, Indian Law Institute, Delhi. The guest of honour was Shri S.S. Nehra Advocate Supreme Court, Dr. Shakeel Moin, National Patron, Federation of Judicial Employees Federation of India, Mr. Vijay Pratap Singh Principal City Inter College, Barabanki and many others were present.
In the first phase of the second day of Gandhi Jayanti week, a Prabhat Pheri of 100 people was taken out from Gandhi Bhavan to Patel statue at 6 am. Thereafter, the chief guest Shri Rajesh Kumar Pandey (IPS) former I.G. UP hoisted the flag. The special guest of the programme Shri Ramesh Chandra Sharma, Shri K.S. Bhati Former Registrar, Indian Law Institute, Delhi, Shri S.S. Nehra Advocate Supreme Court, Shri Brijesh Dixit Former President District Bar Association Barabanki, Shri Mohd. Umer Ahmed Kidwai, President Gandhi Jayanti Celebrations Committee, Shri Rajnath Sharma, President Gandhi Jayanti Masaroh Trust etc. were present.
The second session of the Gandhi Jayanti celebrations programme was inaugurated by Shri Arif Mohammad Khan, Hon'ble Governor of Kerala at Gandhi Bhavan. He also inaugurated the Khadi Swadeshi Kendra at Gandhi Bhawan. Thereafter, 25 dignitaries were honored with the Social Participation Award. The Chief Guest and other guests addressed the gathering and 43rd All India Poetry Conference and Mushaira was organized, which was presided over by Brijesh Dixit, former President of District Bar Association and Dr. Shakeel Moin, eminent poet Nizamat.
On October 3-4, 2021 various competitions were organized. It was inaugurated by veteran national player Chhotelal Choudhary. The chief umpire of the competition was Parvez Akhtar. On this occasion Rajnath Sharma, Haji Salauddin Kidwai, Mohd. Umer Kidwai, Vinay Kumar Singh, Mrityunjay Sharma etc. were present.
On the fifth day of Gandhi Jayanti week, a seminar and awareness program on 'Drug Free Society and Mahatma Gandhi' was organized, which was presided over by Shri Brijesh Dixit District Bar Association, Barabanki.
A hockey tournament was held on the sixth day of Gandhi Jayanti week, in which Gandhi Sports Club Team ‘A’ defeated Gandhi Sports Club Team ‘B’ by 3-2. Club President Salauddin Kidwai, Founder Rajnath Sharma, Team A captain Ekhlaque Ansari, Team B captain Deepak Kumar, Nisar Ahmed, Vijay Awasthi, Dr Vikram Kumar Singh, Dhananjay Sharma, Pateshwari Prasad, Parvez Akhtar, Chandan Asthana, Jai Pratap Gupta players were present.
Shri Mahidhar Pant Deputy Director General of BSNL inaugurated the valedictory programme of the Gandhi Jayanti Week on October 7, 2021. Special guest filmmaker and director Aditya Om; member Devendra Pratap Singh 'Gyanu’; educationist Vijay Pratap Singh; social worker Vamik Rafiq Warsi, Gandhian thinker Rajnath Sharma, President of Seva Society, Mohd. Umer Kidwai and many other distinguished guests were present during the programme.
• MEGHALAYA
E-Workshop on Developing Conflict Competences for Effective Resolution of Conflicts
October 8, 2021
GSDS organized an E-Workshop on Developing Conflict Competences for Effective Resolution of Conflicts in association with The University of Science and Technology, Meghalaya on October, 20, 2021 in which the five major styles of conflict management – collaborating, competing, avoiding, accommodating, and compromising were discussed and now nonviolent communication can be an effective tool for resolving conflicts. Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu Programme Officer GSDS conducted the session.
• JHARKHAND
Induction Course for newly appointed Judicial Officers on Gandhian Model of Mediation and Contemporary Issue
October 29, 2021
The Samiti organized an “Induction course for newly appointed Judicial Officers on Gandhian Model of Mediation and Contemporary Issue” on October 29, 2021. The programme was organized in association with the Jharkhand Judicial Academy. The sessions that were conducted by Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan, Director GSDS; Dr Vedabhyas Kundu, Programme Officer GSDS for the newly appointed judges included:
i. Gandhian Approach to Conflict Resolution
ii. Gandhian Model of Mediation
iii. Gandhian approach to Mediation and Contemporary Approaches
iv. Gandhian Approach to Indian Legal System.
INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMMES
E-Dialogue on Promoting Gandhian Values and Philosophy in South Korea
October 16, 2021
Gandhian values and philosophy have great significance not just in the lives of individuals but also in communities across the world. These are universal principles essential for harmonious coexistence and a culture of peace. The Gandhian ideas of peace and nonviolence have become critical more than ever before and in different settings and conflicts. In conjunction with other principles of peace and nonviolence, we can together contribute towards a culture of peace.
Revered across the world, the peace apostle has important lessons for all of us in a world which is getting stressful and seeing the erosion of human values. The challenge hence is to promote human hood and a humanistic global order.
In this context, an E-Dialogue on “Promoting Gandhian Values and Philosophy in South Korea” was organized on October 16, 2021 aimed on how to introduce and promote different Gandhian principles and ideals in general public in South Korea especially amongst young people. For developing a climate of appreciation of initiatives on different dimensions of Gandhian philosophy, we have started to have some E Conferences with various Gandhian scholars worldwide. Given the respect Mahatma Gandhi has in the world community, we could promote Gandhian virtues as a solution to Korea’s ongoing social and economic concerns. We think Gandhian principles are very important for promotion of peace in the Korean peninsula.
E- Dialogue on “Integrating Non-Violent Communication in Curriculum
October 16, 2021
The University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB)’s Media Studies and Journalism Department organized an online conference on “Integrating Non-Violent Communication in Curriculum” in collaboration with Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti (GSDS), India. The conference was held in Zoom platform on 16 October 2021. The conference aimed to bring together academicians from the disciplines of communication, media and peace studies to discuss and reflect on the deepening of globalization, rise of hate speech and the advent of a post-truth era, and featured speakers from Bangladesh, India, Thailand, the Philippines and Sweden. The speakers discussed about different aspects of Non-Violent Communication and its importance in today’s society, and showcased their experiences of integrating the concept in the curricula of different disciplines including Communication, Journalism and Media Studies, Peace Studies, Development Communication etc.
In the opening session, the welcome speech was delivered by GSDS Director Sh. Dipanker Shri Gyan while ULAB MSJ Department Head Prof. Jude William Genilo presented the concept note of the conference. GSDS Programme Officer Dr. Vedabhyas Kundu delivered the keynote speech. Dr Sarkar Barbaq Quarmal, Assistant Professor and Graduate Program Coordinator moderated the opening session.
In Plenary Session 1, Chaired by Dr Vedabhyas Kundu, the speakers included Ms. Nandita Tabassum Khan (Media Studies and Journalism Department (MSJ), University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh) and Dr. Ruchita Chowdhry (Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti Language University, India). Ms. Nandita showcased how MSJ department integrated the concept of non-violence in its curriculum while Dr Ruchita presented the experience of Department of Mass Communication and Journalism in Khwaja Mainuddin Chisti Language University, India.
In Plenary Session 2, Chaired by Prof. Jude William Genilo, the speakers included: Dr. Maria Margarita Alvina-Acosta (Miriam College, the Philippines), Dr. Kamolrat Intaratat (Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University, Thailand) and Dr. Greg Simons (Uppsala University, Sweden). Dr. Maria reflected on the experience of Miriam College to hold a holistic approach on peace education, Dr Kamolrat brought experiences from Thai institutions, while Dr Greg Simons reflected on non-violence communication in tackling violent communication at personal and community level.
Dr Sarkar Barbaq Quarmal delivered the vote of thanks with concluding remarks.
VISITORS
i. Deputy Secretary of State, Government of the United States of America, Ms. Wendy Sherman and Charge d’Affaires Ms. Patricia A Lacina, Embassy of the United States in India visited Gandhi Smriti on October 6, 2021. Shri Vijay Goel, Vice-Chairman GSDS received the delegation in Gandhi Smriti and showed them around the Gandhi Smriti Museum. Director GSDS, Shri Dipanker Shri Gyan was also present on the occasion. The delegation offered tributes at the Martyr’s Column.
ii. Shri Sanjay Jaiswal, Party President of Bharatiya Janta Party Bihar, visited Gandhi Smriti on October 19, 2021. Vice Chairman GSDS, Shri Vijay Goel received Shri Sanjay Jaiswal who also offered tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at the Martyrs Column.
