India paused to remember Mahatma Gandhi on January 30, his 78th death anniversary, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi leading tributes at Gandhi Smriti in the capital. Joined by Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Modi participated in a deeply moving prayer assembly, reflecting on the enduring impact of Gandhi’s philosophy.
The Prime Minister’s interaction with schoolchildren at the venue symbolized hope, bridging generational gaps through Bapu’s timeless wisdom. It was a vivid reminder of how Gandhi’s emphasis on education and moral grounding remains vital today.
Modi’s social media message captured the essence: ‘Shat shat naman to Pujya Bapu. His Swadeshi advocacy fuels our Viksit Bharat dreams. Ahimsa, the supreme duty, empowers change sans arms.’ Quoting ancient texts, he positioned non-violence as the ultimate truth from which dharma emerges. At Raj Ghat, his homage reinforced national pledges to justice and human welfare.
In a synchronized show of respect, UP CM Yogi Adityanath commemorated Gandhi at Lucknow’s GPO Park. The ceremony featured garlanding of the statue, silent contemplation, and soulful renditions of bhajans by students, filling the air with devotion. Yogi listened intently, applauded the performances, and shared photos, while calling on the public to adopt Gandhi’s principles.
These observances highlight Gandhi’s role not just as a freedom fighter but as a moral compass for modern India. In times of global unrest, his advocacy for peace and self-sufficiency resonates profoundly, guiding policymakers and citizens alike towards sustainable development and ethical living.