Gandhi's Peace Message More Relevant Than Ever, Says Indian Envoy
Indian Ambassador to Kazakhstan emphasizes Mahatma Gandhi's message of non-violence as essential for today's turbulent geopolitical landscape.
In an era defined by intense geopolitical competition and widespread global conflicts, the timeless philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi has taken center stage in Astana. Speaking on the occasion of the 157th birth anniversary of the Father of the Nation and the International Day of Non-Violence, the Indian Ambassador to Kazakhstan, YK Sailas Thangal, emphasized that Gandhi's principles are more crucial today than at any other point in history.
The commemoration, organized by the Embassy of India in Kazakhstan, served as a powerful reminder of the strength found in peace. Ambassador Thangal led a solemn ceremony involving floral tributes at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi, accompanied by various international diplomats and heads of organizations.
A Source of Strength in Turbulent Times
Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Thangal highlighted how the world's current state of unrest makes the Gandhian way of life a necessity rather than just an ideal. He noted that non-violence should not be viewed as a passive stance, but as a profound source of courage.
"In a world where you have a lot of conflicts and geopolitics competitions in various parts of the world, the message of Mahatma Gandhi of peace and non-violence is more relevant today than ever," Thangal told ANI. He expressed India's pride in being able to share this message of resilience and peace with Kazakhstan and the broader diplomatic community stationed in Astana.
Global Diplomats Echo the Call for Peace
The sentiment was widely shared by the international community present at the event. Marje Luup, the Ambassador of Estonia to Kazakhstan, underscored the urgency of observing Non-Violence Day given the current global climate.
"It's extremely important that we celebrate the Non-Violence Day in the world because in today's geopolitical situation where there are many conflicts ongoing, it's important for us to keep in mind that actually peace is something we should strive towards," Luup remarked.
Adding a spiritual and philosophical depth to the discussion, Archbishop George Panamthundil, the Apostolic Nuncio to Kazakhstan, reminded attendees that peace is a multi-dimensional concept. He noted that Gandhi's thoughts remain vital regardless of whether times are turbulent or calm, stating, "Peace is not just the absence of violence but the presence of justice."
A Symbol of Indo-Kazakhstan Friendship
The ceremony took place at the site of the life-size statue of Mahatma Gandhi, which stands as a symbol of the deep bilateral ties between India and Kazakhstan. Unveiled in 2022 by the then Minister of State for External Affairs, Meenakashi Lekhi, alongside Kazakhstan's Deputy Minister of Culture and Sports, the statue has become a landmark for cultural and diplomatic exchange.
The site continues to hold significant diplomatic importance, having recently been visited by India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, who paid his respects during the SCO Summit in July 2024.