By 
Embassy of India, Riyadh
Shahzeen Eram, Riyadh – Indian Embassy marked the 150th birth anniversary celebrations of Mahatma Gandhi on October 2nd, 2019 in Diplomatic Quarters, here in Riyadh
Ambassador of India
Ambassador of India Dr Ausaf Sayeed, on Wednesday, unveiled a bust of Mahatma Gandhi at the Embassy premises. Addressing the Indian diaspora, the Ambassador reminded the audience that Gandhi wanted his life to be his message. He said, “Gandhi’s guiding principles of non-violence, truth, and upliftment of the less privileged had the universal appeal that had inspired other leaders across the world”. The Ambassador also impressed upon the need to inculcate these principles among children. And, teach them to be compassionate, respectful of human dignity and uphold the rights of the less privileged.
As part of the celebrations, the Embassy organized a series of events. Which simultaneously celebrated in India and across the world as Gandhi @150 slogan.
The Embassy opened the celebrations with a cultural evening on Tuesday that showcased plays and music performances by school children from International Indian School of Riyadh and International Indian Public School, Riyadh depicting the life of Gandhi, who is fondly called Bapu, or Father of the Nation, in India.
Documentary Video
Firstly, A documentary relaying the amazing history of Mahatma and the ‘Making of ‘Vaishnav Jana To’ video shot exclusively in Riyadh, was shown for the audience. Secondly, the event also showcased a Gandhi photo exhibition which took the audience through Gandhi’s life journey. A display of a unique collection of over 400 stamps from 99 countries dedicated to Gandhi by noted Jeddah-based philatelist Mirza Mohammad Nawab received huge applause from the guests. “Over the last one year, the Embassy has organized various seminars, quizzes, talk shows and also a Cycle Rally for Peace dedicated to the life of Gandhi” shared Embassy official Asim Anwar Second Secretary- Media Affairs.
The event largely attended by members of the diplomatic corps, Saudi nationals and the Indian community. Further, screening of a documentary on the messages of Gandhi. And, the relevance of Gandhi in the modern-day also witnessed by the patriotic audience. The event concluded with the distribution of prizes to winners of various competitions held to mark the historic occasion.
Gandhi Jayanti
Indians all over the world celebrate the birth of their ‘Father of Nation’ on October 2nd as Gandhi Jayanti. Now, following a resolution of the UN General Assembly on 15th June 2007. October 2nd also marked as the “International Day of Non-Violence” as a tribute to the path of non-violence. Followed by the Mahatma in his struggle for India’s independence and fight against colonialism.
Article by, Senior News Editor of Riyadh Xpress: Shahzeen Eram.
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