Indians in Qatar marked the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, known as the ‘Father of the Nation’ with several programmes on Wednesday.

Mahatma Gandhi, born on October 2,1869, is acclaimed internationally for his principles of non-violence. October 2 is also observed as the International Day of Non-Violence.

At Indian Cultural Centre, a special event was held with the participation of a large number of Indians. Ambassador P Kumaran, Doha Bank Group CEO Dr R Seetharaman, ICC president A P Manikantan among others were present.

On the sidelines of the event, there was an exhibition highlighting the life and activities of Mahatma Gandhi. It featured some of the major milestones in his life and his efforts for the freedom of India from the British rule.

Highlighting Gandhi’s contribution to India and the world, ambassador Kumaran said that the values practised by Gandhi are very much relevant even in the modern times.

“As we mark the sesquicentennial year of Mahatma Gandhi, several of the principles followed by him are honoured around the world even today. His ideals of non-violence and simplicity are time-tested and followed by many. He used very different and unique methods to fight injustice and oppression. Satyagraha, civil disobedience, non- violence, non-cooperation among others, were his powerful weapons to disagree with authorities as well as to express his innate desire to withstand injustice,” explained Kumaran.

The Indian envoy highlighted the activities that have been going on for about a year to mark the occasion in Qatar as well as back in India and around the world. He also said that the embassy is planning a bicycle race with the participation of 150 cycles sometime soon.

He noted that to mark the occasion, Qatar Post released a commemorative postal stamp which was released on Tuesday at VCUarts Qatar at another function and thanked the government of Qatar for the honour. He also pointed out that Khadi, the favourite clothing of Gandhi is a sustainable and most eco-friendly fabric, and is becoming highly popular around the world.

Students from Indian schools presented a number of cultural programmes during the event to mark the occasion.


Related Story