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A life-sized bronze statue of Mahatma Gandhi was vandalised in a New York City neighbourhood on Saturday, an act strongly condemned as 'despicable' by the Consulate General of India here.

The 8-foot-high statue, located in Manhattan's Union Square, was defaced by some unknown persons, the Consulate General of India said.

"The Consulate condemns this act of vandalism in the strongest terms,"&nbsp;it said, adding that the matter has been taken up with local authorities.

"The matter has also been taken up with the US State Department for immediate investigation and urged appropriate action against those responsible for this despicable act,"&nbsp;it said.

The incident has shocked the Indian-American community here.

The statue was donated by the Gandhi Memorial International Foundation, and was dedicated on October 2, 1986 to mark the 117th birth anniversary of Gandhi.

American civil rights leader Bayard Rustin had delivered a keynote speech at the ceremony.

Incidentally, the statue was removed in 2001, conserved and reinstalled in a landscape garden area in 2002.

This is not the first time a statue of Gandhi has been desecrated in the US.

In January last year, unknown miscreants had vandalised, broken and ripped from the base a statue of Gandhi in a park in the US state of California, evoking a strong response from India which sought a thorough investigation and appropriate action against those responsible for the "despicable act."

The 6-ft tall, 650-pound (294 kg) bronze statue of Gandhi, in the Central Park of the City of Davis in Northern California, had been sawed off at the ankles and half its face was severed and missing.

The vandalised statue of Gandhi was found by a park employee in the early hours of morning of January 27, 2021, the police had said.

In December 2020, Khalistani-supporters had desecrated a Gandhi statue in Washington, DC in front of the Indian Embassy.

The then White House Press Secretary, Kayleigh McEnany, had termed the incident as "terrible".

"No statue or memorial should be desecrated and certainly not one like that of Gandhi, who really fought for the values that America represents of peace, justice, and freedom.&nbsp;It is appalling that it has happened more than once and we believe the reputation of Mahatma Gandhi should be respected, especially here in America's capital,"&nbsp;she had said.

Also in June 2020, some unknown miscreants vandalised the statue of Gandhi outside the Indian embassy in the US with graffiti and spray painting, prompting the mission to register a complaint with the local law enforcement agencies.

Vandalism of the statue of the apostle of peace happened during the week of nationwide protests against the custodial killing of African-American George Floyd in Minneapolis on May 25.&nbsp;

A life-sized bronze statue of Mahatma Gandhi was vandalised in a New York City neighbourhood on Saturday, an act strongly condemned as 'despicable' by the Consulate General of India here.

A life-sized bronze statue of Mahatma Gandhi was vandalised in a New York City neighbourhood on Saturday, an act strongly condemned as 'despicable' by the Consulate General of India here. The 8-foot-high statue, located in Manhattan's Union Square, was defaced by some unknown persons, the Consulate General of India said. "The Consulate condemns this act of vandalism in the strongest terms," it said, adding that the matter has been taken up with local authorities. "The matter has also been taken up with the US State Department for immediate investigation and urged appropriate action against those responsible for this despicable act," it said. The incident has shocked the Indian-American community here. The statue was donated by the Gandhi Memorial International Foundation, and was dedicated on October 2, 1986 to mark the 117th birth anniversary of Gandhi. American civil rights leader Bayard Rustin had delivered a keynote speech at the ceremony. Incidentally, the statue was removed in 2001, conserved and reinstalled in a landscape garden area in 2002. This is not the first time a statue of Gandhi has been desecrated in the US. In January last year, unknown miscreants had vandalised, broken and ripped from the base a statue of Gandhi in a park in the US state of California, evoking a strong response from India which sought a thorough investigation and appropriate action against those responsible for the "despicable act." The 6-ft tall, 650-pound (294 kg) bronze statue of Gandhi, in the Central Park of the City of Davis in Northern California, had been sawed off at the ankles and half its face was severed and missing. The vandalised statue of Gandhi was found by a park employee in the early hours of morning of January 27, 2021, the police had said. In December 2020, Khalistani-supporters had desecrated a Gandhi statue in Washington, DC in front of the Indian Embassy. The then White House Press Secretary, Kayleigh McEnany, had termed the incident as "terrible". "No statue or memorial should be desecrated and certainly not one like that of Gandhi, who really fought for the values that America represents of peace, justice, and freedom. It is appalling that it has happened more than once and we believe the reputation of Mahatma Gandhi should be respected, especially here in America's capital," she had said. Also in June 2020, some unknown miscreants vandalised the statue of Gandhi outside the Indian embassy in the US with graffiti and spray painting, prompting the mission to register a complaint with the local law enforcement agencies. Vandalism of the statue of the apostle of peace happened during the week of nationwide protests against the custodial killing of African-American George Floyd in Minneapolis on May 25.

Mahatma Gandhi's statue vandalised in New York

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat on Martyrs' Day.

India's PM Modi & President Kovind pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat on Martyrs' Day

India observes 'Shaheed Diwas' or 'Martyr's Day' on January 30 every year. This is the day when Mahatma Gandhi, Father of the Nation, was assassinated in 1948 by Nathuram Godse.

India observes 'Shaheed Diwas' or 'Martyr's Day' on January 30 every year. This is the day when Mahatma Gandhi, Father of the Nation, was assassinated in 1948 by Nathuram Godse. Throughout his life, Gandhi followed the path of truth and non-violence and led the successful campaign for India's independence from the oppressive British rule. On January 30, the president, vice president, prime minister, the defence minister, pay homage to 'Bapu' as they gather at the samadhi at Raj Ghat memorial in the nation's capital New Delhi. They lay wreaths and pay floral tributes to Gandhi. ALSO READ | Why India observes ‘Martyr’s Day’ and how is it connected to Mahatma Gandhi? As the nation remembers Gandhi and his principles, here's are some lesser-known facts about him: 1) Mahatma Gandhi was born on October 2, 1869. He was named Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi as Karamchand was the name of his father. However, he received the honour and title of 'Mahatma' in 1914. Mahatma means great soul. 2) Not just in India, Mahatma Gandhi was responsible for the Civil Rights movement in 12 countries, on four continents. 3) Although Mahatma Gandhi never received the Nobel Peace prize, but he was nominated five times for the honour. 4) He was, and still is, loved by the people globally. Many would not know that his funeral procession was eight kilometres long. 5) During the Boer War in South Africa, Mahatma Gandhi served in the army. Gandhi was bestowed with the title of 'kaiser-i-Hind' by the British for his work in the Boer war. However, he gave up the title after the Jallianwala Bagh massacre in 1919.⁣ 6) A stamp was released by Britain to honour Gandhi 21 years after his death. 7) Reports have mentioned that Mahatma Gandhi had an Irish accent to some extent. The reason is, one of his first teachers was an Irishman. 8) Mahatma Gandhi formed two football clubs during his stay in South Africa, named the Passive Resisters.

India remembers Mahatma Gandhi on Martyrs' Day: Here are some lesser-known facts about 'Bapu'

Remembering Gandhi: Here are some inspirational quotes of the Father of the Nation

Every year on January 30, India observes ‘Shaheed Diwas’ or ‘Martyr’s Day’. The day marks the death anniversary of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, or Mahatma Gandhi.

On this day, India pays homage to the freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives to secure freedom for India from the oppressive British regime.

Why is Martyr’s Day is observed on January 30?

Mahatma Gandhi is regarded as the Father of the Nation. He led India’s struggle for freedom and is revered by everyone for his non-violent approach against the British Raj.

However, there were many who opposed Gandhi's ideas, and blamed him for the partition of India.

On January 30, 1948, just five months after India gained independence, Gandhi was shot three times at point-blank range during a prayer meeting at Birla House compound in New Delhi. He was 78.

He was assassinated by Nathuram Godse. Gandhi died at the spot.

Since then, India observes that day as ‘Martyr’s Day’ to mourn the loss of its greatest freedom fighter.

How is ‘Martyr’s Day’ celebrated?

Every year on this day, the President, Vice President, Prime Minister, Defence Minister, and the three Service Chiefs —Army, Air Force, and Navy—pay tribute at Mahatma Gandhi's memorial at Raj Ghat in Delhi.

As per the government’s directions, two minutes of silence is observed in states and UTs on January 30 in the memory of martyred freedom fighters.

People across India observe seven Martyr's Day in a year. The day is celebrated to honour the martyrs of the nation.

The seven days are: January 30, March 23, May 19, October 21, November 17, November 19, and November 24.

What does Gandhi represent?

Gandhi is the symbol of non-violence. Many world leaders regard him as their inspiration.

Martin Luther King Jr, the African-American civil rights movement leader, Nelson Mandela, the great leader of the South African people, Dalai Lama and Albert Einstein, among many, revere Gandhi.

Gandhi's philosophy is based on three principles: non-violence, the fight for truth (satyagraha) and individual and political freedom (swaraj).

In his fight for peace, he sought advice from the teachings of Buddha and the Prophet Mohammed.

Gandhi believed that pure faith could unite people of different religions. “I can see that in the midst of death, life persists. In the midst of untruth, truth persists. In the midst of darkness, light persists. Hence, I gather that God is life, truth, light. He is love. He is the supreme good.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Every year on January 30, India observes ‘Shaheed Diwas’ or ‘Martyr’s Day’. The day marks the death anniversary of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, or Mahatma Gandhi.

Every year on January 30, India observes ‘Shaheed Diwas’ or ‘Martyr’s Day’. The day marks the death anniversary of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, or Mahatma Gandhi. On this day, India pays homage to the freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives to secure freedom for India from the oppressive British regime. Why is Martyr’s Day is observed on January 30? Mahatma Gandhi is regarded as the Father of the Nation. He led India’s struggle for freedom and is revered by everyone for his non-violent approach against the British Raj. However, there were many who opposed Gandhi's ideas, and blamed him for the partition of India. On January 30, 1948, just five months after India gained independence, Gandhi was shot three times at point-blank range during a prayer meeting at Birla House compound in New Delhi. He was 78. He was assassinated by Nathuram Godse. Gandhi died at the spot. Since then, India observes that day as ‘Martyr’s Day’ to mourn the loss of its greatest freedom fighter. How is ‘Martyr’s Day’ celebrated? Every year on this day, the President, Vice President, Prime Minister, Defence Minister, and the three Service Chiefs —Army, Air Force, and Navy—pay tribute at Mahatma Gandhi's memorial at Raj Ghat in Delhi. As per the government’s directions, two minutes of silence is observed in states and UTs on January 30 in the memory of martyred freedom fighters. People across India observe seven Martyr's Day in a year. The day is celebrated to honour the martyrs of the nation. The seven days are: January 30, March 23, May 19, October 21, November 17, November 19, and November 24. What does Gandhi represent? Gandhi is the symbol of non-violence. Many world leaders regard him as their inspiration. Martin Luther King Jr, the African-American civil rights movement leader, Nelson Mandela, the great leader of the South African people, Dalai Lama and Albert Einstein, among many, revere Gandhi. Gandhi's philosophy is based on three principles: non-violence, the fight for truth (satyagraha) and individual and political freedom (swaraj). In his fight for peace, he sought advice from the teachings of Buddha and the Prophet Mohammed. Gandhi believed that pure faith could unite people of different religions. “I can see that in the midst of death, life persists. In the midst of untruth, truth persists. In the midst of darkness, light persists. Hence, I gather that God is life, truth, light. He is love. He is the supreme good.” (With inputs from agencies)

Why India observes ‘Martyr’s Day’ and how is it connected to Mahatma Gandhi?

As India remembers Mahatma Gandhi on his 74th death anniversary on January 30, the country's President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to the Father of Nation.

India's President attended Sarva Dharma Prarthana at Rajghat in the nation's capital New Delhi. PM Modi said that it is our collective endeavour to further "popularise his noble ideals".&nbsp;

Taking to his official Twitter handle, PM Modi wrote: "Remembering Bapu on his Punya Tithi. It is our collective endeavour to further popularise his noble ideals."&nbsp;

"Today, on Martyrs’ Day, paying homage to all the greats who courageously safeguarded our nation. Their service and bravery will always be remembered," he added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-remembers-mahatma-gandhi-on-martyrs-day-here-are-some-lesser-known-facts-about-bapu-448890">India remembers Mahatma Gandhi on Martyrs' Day: Here are some lesser-known facts about 'Bapu'</a>

India observes 'Shaheed Diwas' or 'Martyrs' Day' on January 30 every year to mark the date&nbsp;when Gandhi ji was assassinated in 1948 by Nathuram Godse.&nbsp;

With his principles of Satya (truth) and Ahimsa (non-violence), Gandhi inspired&nbsp;millions across the world. He followed the path of non-violence and led the successful campaign for India's independence from the oppressive British rule.&nbsp;

India's Vice President Venkaiah Naidu paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi and urged&nbsp;people to come together to free the country from poverty, hunger, social evils, illiteracy and discrimination.&nbsp;

"An apostle of peace and non-violence, Gandhi Ji played a colossal role in India's freedom struggle and in shaping the destiny of India," the Vice President Secretariat tweeted, quoting Naidu.&nbsp;

"His glorious life, noble ideas and selflessness continue to inspire humanity. Let us come together to free our country from poverty, hunger, social evils, illiteracy and discrimination," he said.&nbsp;

Describing Gandhi as a visionary leader, social emancipator, messiah for farmers, crusader of the downtrodden and the voice of rural India, the vice president said he was an epitome of kindness, compassion and selfless service.

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President Ram Nath Kovind paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi on Martyrs’ Day and attended Sarva Dharma Prarthana at Rajghat, New Delhi. <a href="https://t.co/XUyq4EEjmG">pic.twitter.com/XUyq4EEjmG</a>
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1487679338124550144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-india-observes-martyrs-day-and-how-is-it-connected-to-mahatma-gandhi-448860">Why India observes ‘Martyr’s Day’ and how is it connected to Mahatma Gandhi</a>?

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Remembering Bapu on his Punya Tithi. It is our collective endeavour to further popularise his noble ideals. 
 
Today, on Martyrs’ Day, paying homage to all the greats who courageously safeguarded our nation. Their service and bravery will always be remembered.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1487631885161615362?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
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My respectful tributes to 'Father of the Nation' Mahatma Gandhi Ji on his death anniversary today. An apostle of peace and non-violence, Gandhi Ji played a colossal role in India's freedom struggle and in shaping the destiny of India. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gandhiji?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gandhiji</a> <a href="https://t.co/0dzzelL9LL">pic.twitter.com/0dzzelL9LL</a>
— Vice President of India (@VPSecretariat) <a href="https://twitter.com/VPSecretariat/status/1487635969255755776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
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As India remembers Mahatma Gandhi on his 74th death anniversary on January 30, the country's President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to the Father of Nation.

As India remembers Mahatma Gandhi on his 74th death anniversary on January 30, the country's President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to the Father of Nation. India's President attended Sarva Dharma Prarthana at Rajghat in the nation's capital New Delhi. PM Modi said that it is our collective endeavour to further "popularise his noble ideals". Taking to his official Twitter handle, PM Modi wrote: "Remembering Bapu on his Punya Tithi. It is our collective endeavour to further popularise his noble ideals." "Today, on Martyrs’ Day, paying homage to all the greats who courageously safeguarded our nation. Their service and bravery will always be remembered," he added. ALSO READ | India remembers Mahatma Gandhi on Martyrs' Day: Here are some lesser-known facts about 'Bapu' India observes 'Shaheed Diwas' or 'Martyrs' Day' on January 30 every year to mark the date when Gandhi ji was assassinated in 1948 by Nathuram Godse. With his principles of Satya (truth) and Ahimsa (non-violence), Gandhi inspired millions across the world. He followed the path of non-violence and led the successful campaign for India's independence from the oppressive British rule. India's Vice President Venkaiah Naidu paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi and urged people to come together to free the country from poverty, hunger, social evils, illiteracy and discrimination. "An apostle of peace and non-violence, Gandhi Ji played a colossal role in India's freedom struggle and in shaping the destiny of India," the Vice President Secretariat tweeted, quoting Naidu. "His glorious life, noble ideas and selflessness continue to inspire humanity. Let us come together to free our country from poverty, hunger, social evils, illiteracy and discrimination," he said. Describing Gandhi as a visionary leader, social emancipator, messiah for farmers, crusader of the downtrodden and the voice of rural India, the vice president said he was an epitome of kindness, compassion and selfless service. President Ram Nath Kovind paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi on Martyrs’ Day and attended Sarva Dharma Prarthana at Rajghat, New Delhi. pic.twitter.com/XUyq4EEjmG — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) January 30, 2022 × ALSO READ | Why India observes ‘Martyr’s Day’ and how is it connected to Mahatma Gandhi? Remembering Bapu on his Punya Tithi. It is our collective endeavour to further popularise his noble ideals. Today, on Martyrs’ Day, paying homage to all the greats who courageously safeguarded our nation. Their service and bravery will always be remembered. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 30, 2022 × My respectful tributes to 'Father of the Nation' Mahatma Gandhi Ji on his death anniversary today. An apostle of peace and non-violence, Gandhi Ji played a colossal role in India's freedom struggle and in shaping the destiny of India. #Gandhiji pic.twitter.com/0dzzelL9LL — Vice President of India (@VPSecretariat) January 30, 2022 × ×

PM Narendra Modi says it's our collective endeavour to popularise Mahatma Gandhi's noble ideals

The central government has dropped the hymn 'Abide with me' from the musical line-up of Republic Day.

'Abide with me', written by Scottish Anglican poet and hymnologist Henry Francis Lyte in 1847, had been part of the Beating Retreat ceremony since 1950.&nbsp;

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/the-making-of-a-republic-negotiations-that-led-to-creation-of-india-as-a-republic-445717">The making of a republic: Negotiations that led to creation of India as a republic</a>

Beating Retreat marks the end of nearly week-long festivities of Republic Day, which used to begin on January 24. But this year, the celebrations will begin on January 23, the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose.

It was the favourite hymn of Mahatma Gandhi, who is popularly known as the 'father of the nation.'

For this year's ceremony, the hymn has been replaced by the popular patriotic song "Ae Mere Watan Ke Logon", which was written by Kavi Pradeep to commemorate the supreme sacrifice made by Indian soldiers during the 1962 Indo-China war.

It comes after the eternal flame at Amar Jawan Jyoti was shifted to the National War Memorial.

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/subhash-chandra-bose-last-days-of-indian-freedom-fighter-still-a-matter-of-speculations-conspiracy-theories-446894" hreflang="en">Subhash Chandra Bose: Last days of Indian freedom fighter still a matter of speculations, conspiracy theories</a>

India’s annual Republic Day parade is a flamboyant display of the South Asian nation’s military might and cultural diversity in the heart of the capital, New Delhi.

India’s military forces go on full display during the two-hour parade, with troops, rows of tanks, missiles and formations of horses and camels maneuvering down the wide Rajpath (King’s Way) boulevard.

During the event, bravery awards are given to military personnel, civilians and children for showing “courage in the face of adversity”. The event is presided over by the president, commander-in-chief of the armed forces.

India’s Border Security Force are regular favorites in the show, with their “Daredevil” motorcycle riders appearing in gravity-defying balancing acts and their camel contingents toting guns and musical instruments.

India won independence from British rule on August 15, 1947, but it was not until January 26, 1950, that the nation declared itself a sovereign republic state with the adoption of its constitution. On that day, Rajendra Prasad, India’s first president, unfurled the national flag, and thereafter January 26 became a national holiday, Republic Day. 
&nbsp;

The central government has dropped the hymn 'Abide with me' from the musical line-up of Republic Day. 'Abide with me', written by Scottish Anglican poet and hymnologist Henry Francis Lyte in 1847, had been part of the Beating Retreat ceremony since 1950.

The central government has dropped the hymn 'Abide with me' from the musical line-up of Republic Day. 'Abide with me', written by Scottish Anglican poet and hymnologist Henry Francis Lyte in 1847, had been part of the Beating Retreat ceremony since 1950. Also see | The making of a republic: Negotiations that led to creation of India as a republic Beating Retreat marks the end of nearly week-long festivities of Republic Day, which used to begin on January 24. But this year, the celebrations will begin on January 23, the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose. It was the favourite hymn of Mahatma Gandhi, who is popularly known as the 'father of the nation.' For this year's ceremony, the hymn has been replaced by the popular patriotic song "Ae Mere Watan Ke Logon", which was written by Kavi Pradeep to commemorate the supreme sacrifice made by Indian soldiers during the 1962 Indo-China war. It comes after the eternal flame at Amar Jawan Jyoti was shifted to the National War Memorial. Also see | Subhash Chandra Bose: Last days of Indian freedom fighter still a matter of speculations, conspiracy theories India’s annual Republic Day parade is a flamboyant display of the South Asian nation’s military might and cultural diversity in the heart of the capital, New Delhi. India’s military forces go on full display during the two-hour parade, with troops, rows of tanks, missiles and formations of horses and camels maneuvering down the wide Rajpath (King’s Way) boulevard. During the event, bravery awards are given to military personnel, civilians and children for showing “courage in the face of adversity”. The event is presided over by the president, commander-in-chief of the armed forces. India’s Border Security Force are regular favorites in the show, with their “Daredevil” motorcycle riders appearing in gravity-defying balancing acts and their camel contingents toting guns and musical instruments. India won independence from British rule on August 15, 1947, but it was not until January 26, 1950, that the nation declared itself a sovereign republic state with the adoption of its constitution. On that day, Rajendra Prasad, India’s first president, unfurled the national flag, and thereafter January 26 became a national holiday, Republic Day.

Republic Day 2022: 'Abide with me' dropped from musical line-up by Modi government

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (January 9) greeted the Indian diaspora on Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas (Non-Resident Indian Day) on January 9.&nbsp;

Taking to his official Twitter handle, PM Modi said, "Greetings to everyone, especially the Indian diaspora on Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas."

Our diaspora has distinguished itself all over the world and has excelled in different spheres. At the same time, they have remained connected to their roots. We are proud of their accomplishments," he added.

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Greetings to everyone, especially the Indian diaspora on Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas. Our diaspora has distinguished itself all over the world and has excelled in different spheres. At the same time, they have remained connected to their roots. We are proud of their accomplishments.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1480015587619540992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2022</a></blockquote>
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What is Pravasi Bharatiya Divas?

To mark the contribution of the overseas Indian community in the development of India, Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) is celebrated on January 9. PBD conventions are being held every year since 2003 but since 2015, the format has been revised.&nbsp;

Significance of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas

As per India's Ministry of External Affairs, the revision was done to celebrate the PBD once every two years. Also, theme-based PBD conferences were proposed to be held during the intervening period with participation from overseas diaspora experts, policymakers and stakeholders.

As per MEA, these conventions provide a platform for the overseas Indian community to engage with the government and people of the land of their ancestors for mutually beneficial activities.&nbsp;

These conventions are also very useful in networking among the overseas Indian community residing in various parts of the world and enable them to share their experiences in various fields.

Why is it celebrated on January 9?

Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is celebrated on January 9 because in 1915, Mahatma Gandhi, the greatest Pravasi, had returned to India from South Africa.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (January 9) greeted the Indian diaspora on Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas (Non-Resident Indian Day) on January 9. Taking to his official Twitter handle, PM Modi said, "Greetings to everyone, especially the Indian diaspora on Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (January 9) greeted the Indian diaspora on Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas (Non-Resident Indian Day) on January 9. Taking to his official Twitter handle, PM Modi said, "Greetings to everyone, especially the Indian diaspora on Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas." Our diaspora has distinguished itself all over the world and has excelled in different spheres. At the same time, they have remained connected to their roots. We are proud of their accomplishments," he added. ALSO READ | Covid’s rise continues: India records 1,59,632 fresh cases, 327 deaths in 24 hours Greetings to everyone, especially the Indian diaspora on Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas. Our diaspora has distinguished itself all over the world and has excelled in different spheres. At the same time, they have remained connected to their roots. We are proud of their accomplishments. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 9, 2022 × ALSO READ | Indian state Maharashtra imposes new restrictions; night curfew from Jan 10 What is Pravasi Bharatiya Divas? To mark the contribution of the overseas Indian community in the development of India, Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) is celebrated on January 9. PBD conventions are being held every year since 2003 but since 2015, the format has been revised. Significance of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas As per India's Ministry of External Affairs, the revision was done to celebrate the PBD once every two years. Also, theme-based PBD conferences were proposed to be held during the intervening period with participation from overseas diaspora experts, policymakers and stakeholders. As per MEA, these conventions provide a platform for the overseas Indian community to engage with the government and people of the land of their ancestors for mutually beneficial activities. These conventions are also very useful in networking among the overseas Indian community residing in various parts of the world and enable them to share their experiences in various fields. Why is it celebrated on January 9? Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is celebrated on January 9 because in 1915, Mahatma Gandhi, the greatest Pravasi, had returned to India from South Africa.

PM Narendra Modi greets Indian diaspora on Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas. Know its history and significance

Kangana Ranaut's latest comments on social media have irked the Congress party in Maharashtra.&nbsp; 
 
The party's unit president Nana Patole is seeking legal advice and has also asked the police to register a complaint against the Bollywood actress whose remarks he has termed as 'anti-national'.&nbsp; 
 
Speaking to reporters, Patole said Congress will take a firm stand against such "coordinated" attacks.

Days after Kangana alleged that India had got independence in 1947 like 'alms', Ranaut on Tuesday claimed Subhas Chandra Bose and Bhagat Singh got no support from Mahatma Gandhi and went on to mock his mantra of ahimsa by saying that offering another cheek gets you 'bheek' (alms) not freedom.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-kangana-ranaut-has-a-hilarious-reaction-as-thalaivii-trends-in-pakistan-420079" hreflang="en">Kangana Ranaut has a hilarious reaction as 'Thalaivii' trends in Pakistan</a>

She had described India's Independence as 'bheek', or alms, and declared that freedom came in 2014 when the Narendra Modi-led government came to power.

In a series of posts on Instagram, Ranaut this time targeted Mahatma Gandhi and said "choose your heroes wisely". 
In her Instagram story, Kangana shared an old newspaper article and wrote, "Either you are a Gandhi fan or Netaji supporter. You can't be both, choose and decide."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-as-bollywood-gears-up-to-lodge-a-protest-will-kangana-ranaut-return-her-padma-shri-429452">As Bollywood gears up to lodge a protest, will Kangana Ranaut return her Padma Shri?</a> 
 
The newspaper had an old article from the 1940s with the headline, 'Gandhi, others had agreed to hand over Netaji'. 
In her next IG Story, Kangana, who is known for her controversial remarks, said that freedom fighters were "handed over" to the British by those "who had no courage" to fight oppression but were "power-hungry" and "cunning".&nbsp; 
 
Taking a dig at Mahatma Gandhi, she added, "Those are the ones who taught us if someone slaps you offer another cheek for one more slap and that is how you will get aazaadi. That`s not how one gets aazadi, one can only get bheekh like that. Choose your heroes wisely." 
 
"So you need to choose who you support because just placing them all in one box of your memory and every year wishing them all on their birth anniversaries is not enough. In fact, it is not just dumb, it is highly irresponsible and superficial. One must know their history and their heroes," the actor added. 
 
Her recent comments regarding India`s independence struggle has drawn flak from several politicians and others. 
 
Many have even demanded that the Centre take back Kangana's Padma Shri honour for insulting the country's independence battle.&nbsp; 
 
"There are some Hindi film actors who are given some awards and being used to distort the historical facts. We are seeking a legal opinion on the matter. Once we arrive at a decision, the party will take its next firm stand regarding such coordinated attacks," Patole said when asked about comments made by Ranaut. 
 
He said Congress leader Naseem Khan, a former minister, has already requested the police to file a complaint against Ranaut.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-withdraw-kangana-ranauts-padma-shri-ncp-leader-slams-actress-over-her-remarks-on-indias-independence-428770" hreflang="en">'Withdraw Kangana Ranaut's Padma Shri,' NCP leader slams actress over her remarks on India's independence</a>

Kangana Ranaut's latest comments on social media have irked the Congress party in Maharashtra. The party's unit president Nana Patole is seeking legal advice and has also asked the police to register a complaint against the Bollywood actress whose remarks he has termed as 'anti-national'.

Kangana Ranaut's latest comments on social media have irked the Congress party in Maharashtra. The party's unit president Nana Patole is seeking legal advice and has also asked the police to register a complaint against the Bollywood actress whose remarks he has termed as 'anti-national'. Speaking to reporters, Patole said Congress will take a firm stand against such "coordinated" attacks. Days after Kangana alleged that India had got independence in 1947 like 'alms', Ranaut on Tuesday claimed Subhas Chandra Bose and Bhagat Singh got no support from Mahatma Gandhi and went on to mock his mantra of ahimsa by saying that offering another cheek gets you 'bheek' (alms) not freedom. Kangana Ranaut has a hilarious reaction as 'Thalaivii' trends in Pakistan She had described India's Independence as 'bheek', or alms, and declared that freedom came in 2014 when the Narendra Modi-led government came to power. In a series of posts on Instagram, Ranaut this time targeted Mahatma Gandhi and said "choose your heroes wisely". In her Instagram story, Kangana shared an old newspaper article and wrote, "Either you are a Gandhi fan or Netaji supporter. You can't be both, choose and decide." As Bollywood gears up to lodge a protest, will Kangana Ranaut return her Padma Shri? The newspaper had an old article from the 1940s with the headline, 'Gandhi, others had agreed to hand over Netaji'. In her next IG Story, Kangana, who is known for her controversial remarks, said that freedom fighters were "handed over" to the British by those "who had no courage" to fight oppression but were "power-hungry" and "cunning". Taking a dig at Mahatma Gandhi, she added, "Those are the ones who taught us if someone slaps you offer another cheek for one more slap and that is how you will get aazaadi. That`s not how one gets aazadi, one can only get bheekh like that. Choose your heroes wisely." "So you need to choose who you support because just placing them all in one box of your memory and every year wishing them all on their birth anniversaries is not enough. In fact, it is not just dumb, it is highly irresponsible and superficial. One must know their history and their heroes," the actor added. Her recent comments regarding India`s independence struggle has drawn flak from several politicians and others. Many have even demanded that the Centre take back Kangana's Padma Shri honour for insulting the country's independence battle. "There are some Hindi film actors who are given some awards and being used to distort the historical facts. We are seeking a legal opinion on the matter. Once we arrive at a decision, the party will take its next firm stand regarding such coordinated attacks," Patole said when asked about comments made by Ranaut. He said Congress leader Naseem Khan, a former minister, has already requested the police to file a complaint against Ranaut. 'Withdraw Kangana Ranaut's Padma Shri,' NCP leader slams actress over her remarks on India's independence

Kangana Ranaut takes a dig at Mahatma Gandhi, Congress to file police complaint

Indian-Australian community members are shocked and disappointed after a life-sized bronze statue of Mahatma Gandhi, gifted by the Indian government, was vandalised in an act that Prime Minister Scott Morrison condemned as "disgraceful".&nbsp;

The incident occurred hours after Morrison unveiled the statue at the Australian Indian Community Centre in Rowville on Friday to commemorate India's 75th anniversary of independence.

Morrison was quoted as saying, "It is disgraceful and extremely disappointing to see this level of disrespect."

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"Australia is the most successful multicultural and immigration nation in the world and attacks on cultural monuments will not be tolerated," he added.

Those responsible have shown disrespect to the Australian Indian community and should be ashamed of themselves, he said.

Victoria police say an unknown number of people decapitated the statue between 5.30 pm on Friday and 5.30 pm on Saturday using a power tool.

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As part of their investigation, Knox Crime Investigation Unit detectives are appealing for witnesses to come forward. The police couldn't collect fingerprints because it rained heavily throughout the day.&nbsp;

It was described as a "low act" by Surya Prakash Soni, president of the Federation of Indian Associations of Victoria and the Indian community in the city.

The community is very shocked and sad," he said.

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"Mahatma Gandhi is a symbol of peace and non-violence. He is not only an Indian leader, but a global leader...I don't (understand) why anyone would do such a low act of vandalism," Soni was quoted as saying in a media report.

As he explained, the Rowville community centre was the first of its kind in the state of Victoria, established after 30 years of hard work.

Indian-Australian community members are shocked and disappointed after a life-sized bronze statue of Mahatma Gandhi, gifted by the Indian government, was vandalised in an act that Prime Minister Scott Morrison condemned as "disgraceful".

Indian-Australian community members are shocked and disappointed after a life-sized bronze statue of Mahatma Gandhi, gifted by the Indian government, was vandalised in an act that Prime Minister Scott Morrison condemned as "disgraceful". The incident occurred hours after Morrison unveiled the statue at the Australian Indian Community Centre in Rowville on Friday to commemorate India's 75th anniversary of independence. Morrison was quoted as saying, "It is disgraceful and extremely disappointing to see this level of disrespect." Also read | Denmark cleans beach, only to dump waste back in water "Australia is the most successful multicultural and immigration nation in the world and attacks on cultural monuments will not be tolerated," he added. Those responsible have shown disrespect to the Australian Indian community and should be ashamed of themselves, he said. Victoria police say an unknown number of people decapitated the statue between 5.30 pm on Friday and 5.30 pm on Saturday using a power tool. Also read | 'I keep forgetting you're still alive': Elon Musk take a jibe at Bernie Sanders, offers to sell more stock As part of their investigation, Knox Crime Investigation Unit detectives are appealing for witnesses to come forward. The police couldn't collect fingerprints because it rained heavily throughout the day. It was described as a "low act" by Surya Prakash Soni, president of the Federation of Indian Associations of Victoria and the Indian community in the city. The community is very shocked and sad," he said. Also read | For ‘safety concerns’, high school in US removes washroom doors: Report "Mahatma Gandhi is a symbol of peace and non-violence. He is not only an Indian leader, but a global leader...I don't (understand) why anyone would do such a low act of vandalism," Soni was quoted as saying in a media report. As he explained, the Rowville community centre was the first of its kind in the state of Victoria, established after 30 years of hard work.

'Disgraceful' act: Life-sized statue of Mahatma Gandhi vandalised in Australia, a day after unveiling

An official, commemorative coin celebrating life and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi was unveiled in Britain on Thursday. The coin has been made by The Royal Mint and was unveiled by Rishi Sunak, who is UK's first Hindu finance minister.

The special coin is available in gold and silver, featuring India's national flower, the lotus. It feature one of Mahatma Gandhi's famous quotes, "My life is my message."

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Today I’ve unveiled a new commemorative £5 coin with the <a href="https://twitter.com/RoyalMintUK?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RoyalMintUK</a> to celebrate the life and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi. 
 
The striking design features India’s national flower and one of Gandhi’s most famous quotes. 
 
Read more: <a href="https://t.co/C6fyvzIII4">https://t.co/C6fyvzIII4</a> <a href="https://t.co/yw3PGvmIlA">pic.twitter.com/yw3PGvmIlA</a>
— Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) <a href="https://twitter.com/RishiSunak/status/1456210492805074947?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Gandhi, a figurehead for civil rights movements across the world, led the campaign against British rule in India, helping to secure independence in 1947.

The £5 coin, which is on sale from Thursday, is part of the Royal Mint's wider Diwali collection, which includes a gold bar depicting the Hindu goddess of wealth, Lakshmi.

Hindus are the third-largest religious group in Britain after Christians and Muslims, making up some 1.6 percent of the population.

Most British Hindus are of Indian origin.

Nicola Howell, Chief Customer Officer at the government-owned mint, said it was "delighted to unveil the first official UK coin commemorating the life and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi.&nbsp;

"The beautiful design builds on the enduring relationship and cultural connections between the UK and India," she added.

Around 10 million coins celebrating Britain's diversity went into circulation in October 2020.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

An official, commemorative coin celebrating life and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi was unveiled in Britain on Thursday. The coin has been made by The Royal Mint and was unveiled by Rishi Sunak, who is UK's first Hindu finance minister.

An official, commemorative coin celebrating life and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi was unveiled in Britain on Thursday. The coin has been made by The Royal Mint and was unveiled by Rishi Sunak, who is UK's first Hindu finance minister. The special coin is available in gold and silver, featuring India's national flower, the lotus. It feature one of Mahatma Gandhi's famous quotes, "My life is my message." Today I’ve unveiled a new commemorative £5 coin with the @RoyalMintUK to celebrate the life and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi. The striking design features India’s national flower and one of Gandhi’s most famous quotes. Read more: https://t.co/C6fyvzIII4 pic.twitter.com/yw3PGvmIlA — Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) November 4, 2021 × Gandhi, a figurehead for civil rights movements across the world, led the campaign against British rule in India, helping to secure independence in 1947. The £5 coin, which is on sale from Thursday, is part of the Royal Mint's wider Diwali collection, which includes a gold bar depicting the Hindu goddess of wealth, Lakshmi. Hindus are the third-largest religious group in Britain after Christians and Muslims, making up some 1.6 percent of the population. Most British Hindus are of Indian origin. Nicola Howell, Chief Customer Officer at the government-owned mint, said it was "delighted to unveil the first official UK coin commemorating the life and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi. "The beautiful design builds on the enduring relationship and cultural connections between the UK and India," she added. Around 10 million coins celebrating Britain's diversity went into circulation in October 2020. (With inputs from agencies)

Commemorative coin celebrating Mahatma Gandhi's life unveiled in UK

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was welcomed by an exuberant crowd in Rome as Sansrikt chants reverberated at the Piazza Gandhi, where he paid floral tribute to Mahatma Gandhi's bust on Friday (October 29).&nbsp;

PM Modi, who is in town for the 16th G20 Summit, waved and smiled as several members of the expat community jostled to take photos with him.&nbsp;

Taking to his official Twitter handle, PM Modi wrote, "In Rome, I had the opportunity to pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi, whose ideals give courage and inspiration to millions globally."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/spirit-of-cooperation-deeply-rooted-between-rome-and-new-delhi-says-indias-envoy-to-italy-424974">Spirit of cooperation deeply rooted between Rome and New Delhi, says India's envoy to Italy</a>

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In Rome, I had the opportunity to pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi, whose ideals give courage and inspiration to millions globally. <a href="https://t.co/fbaSOYjIr4">pic.twitter.com/fbaSOYjIr4</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1454038611750445056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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From India to Italy! 
 
Sanskrit chants reverberate at Piazza Gandhi in Rome as Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> interacts with local community. <a href="https://t.co/AaEmYj9n76">pic.twitter.com/AaEmYj9n76</a>
— MyGovIndia (@mygovindia) <a href="https://twitter.com/mygovindia/status/1454042466303156224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> PM Modi welcomed with chants of 'Modi, Modi' at Piazza Gandhi, Rome where he paid floral tributes at the bust of Mahatma Gandhi <a href="https://t.co/CWt14NjFnp">pic.twitter.com/CWt14NjFnp</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1454041789568978957?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-meet-macron-merkel-deuba-and-bennett-during-italy-uk-visits-424882">PM Modi to meet Macron, Merkel, Deuba and Bennett during Italy, UK visits</a>

PM Modi held a joint meeting with President of the European Commission Ursula Von Der Leyen and President of the European Council Charles Michel, his first deliberations after he arrived in Italy.&nbsp;

Official Twitter handle of the office of the Prime Minister of India informed that PM Modi's official engagements in Rome began with a "productive interaction" with Charles Michel and Ursula Von Der Leyen.&nbsp;

The leaders discussed ways to enhance economic as well as people-to-people linkages. The discussions during the joint meeting were also aimed at creating a better planet.&nbsp;

PM Modi&nbsp;is expected to hold several bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the G20 Summit including one with Italian PM Mario Draghi.

The Indian PM arrived in Rome on Friday and was received by senior officials of the Government of Italy and the Ambassador of India in Italy.

After arriving, PM Modi tweeted, "Landed in Rome to take part in the @g20org Summit, an important forum to deliberate on key global issues. I also look forward to other programmes through this visit to Rome."

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was welcomed by an exuberant crowd in Rome as Sansrikt chants reverberated at the Piazza Gandhi, where he paid floral tribute to Mahatma Gandhi's bust on Friday (October 29).

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was welcomed by an exuberant crowd in Rome as Sansrikt chants reverberated at the Piazza Gandhi, where he paid floral tribute to Mahatma Gandhi's bust on Friday (October 29). PM Modi, who is in town for the 16th G20 Summit, waved and smiled as several members of the expat community jostled to take photos with him. Taking to his official Twitter handle, PM Modi wrote, "In Rome, I had the opportunity to pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi, whose ideals give courage and inspiration to millions globally." ALSO READ | Spirit of cooperation deeply rooted between Rome and New Delhi, says India's envoy to Italy In Rome, I had the opportunity to pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi, whose ideals give courage and inspiration to millions globally. pic.twitter.com/fbaSOYjIr4 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 29, 2021 × From India to Italy! Sanskrit chants reverberate at Piazza Gandhi in Rome as Prime Minister @narendramodi interacts with local community. pic.twitter.com/AaEmYj9n76 — MyGovIndia (@mygovindia) October 29, 2021 × #WATCH PM Modi welcomed with chants of 'Modi, Modi' at Piazza Gandhi, Rome where he paid floral tributes at the bust of Mahatma Gandhi pic.twitter.com/CWt14NjFnp — ANI (@ANI) October 29, 2021 × ALSO READ | PM Modi to meet Macron, Merkel, Deuba and Bennett during Italy, UK visits PM Modi held a joint meeting with President of the European Commission Ursula Von Der Leyen and President of the European Council Charles Michel, his first deliberations after he arrived in Italy. Official Twitter handle of the office of the Prime Minister of India informed that PM Modi's official engagements in Rome began with a "productive interaction" with Charles Michel and Ursula Von Der Leyen. The leaders discussed ways to enhance economic as well as people-to-people linkages. The discussions during the joint meeting were also aimed at creating a better planet. PM Modi is expected to hold several bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the G20 Summit including one with Italian PM Mario Draghi. The Indian PM arrived in Rome on Friday and was received by senior officials of the Government of Italy and the Ambassador of India in Italy. After arriving, PM Modi tweeted, "Landed in Rome to take part in the @g20org Summit, an important forum to deliberate on key global issues. I also look forward to other programmes through this visit to Rome."

Watch: Sanskrit chants, selfies as PM Modi pays tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, meets Indian diaspora in Rome

Today is October 2nd, Mahatma Gandhi's 152nd birth anniversary Here we bring a special tribute to the crusader of non-violence and peace.

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi: The man who inspired all, celebrating legend's 152nd birth anniversary

On the occasion of the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Raj Ghat to pay tributes to the ‘father of the nation’.<o:p></o:p>

The Prime Minister laid flowers at Raj Ghat, the memorial dedicated to Gandhi in India’s national capital city, New Delhi.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Prime Minister Narendra Modi pays floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GandhiJayanti?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GandhiJayanti</a> <a href="https://t.co/GE63jP2Nhe">pic.twitter.com/GE63jP2Nhe</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1444122175519084547?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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An ardent follower of Gandhi’s principles, PM Modi said Mahatma Gandhi’s principle are still globally relevant and provides strength to follow the route of non-violence to millions of people around the world.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p></o:p>

"Tributes to the Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi on his birth anniversary. I bow to respected Bapu on Gandhi Jayanti. The life and ideals of Pujya Bapu will continue to inspire every generation of the country to walk on the path of duty. His noble principles are globally relevant and give strength to millions," he tweeted.

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राष्ट्रपिता महात्मा गांधी को उनकी जन्म-जयंती पर विनम्र श्रद्धांजलि। पूज्य बापू का जीवन और आदर्श देश की हर पीढ़ी को कर्तव्य पथ पर चलने के लिए प्रेरित करता रहेगा। 
 
I bow to respected Bapu on Gandhi Jayanti. His noble principles are globally relevant and give strength to millions.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1444103866107121665?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, popularly known as Mahatma Gandhi, was born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar town of Gujarat state of India.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p></o:p>

Gandhi was an ardent supporter of non-violence and a supporter of peace. In memory of him and to promote his values, October 02 is celebrated as International Day of Non-Violence all over the world.

<o:p>India's&nbsp;President Ram Nath Kovind and Vice-President M. Venkaiah Naidu also paid their respects at the Raj Ghat.</o:p>

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also reiterated his calls for peace on this occasion. “On this International Day of Non-Violence - Gandhi's birthday - let's heed his message of peace, and commit to building a better future for all,” he tweeted.<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Modi also paid his respects to the former Prime Minister of India, Lal Bahadur Shastri.<o:p></o:p>

"Tributes to former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri ji on his birth anniversary. His life based on values and principles will always remain a source of inspiration for the countrymen," he tweeted.

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पूर्व प्रधानमंत्री लाल बहादुर शास्त्री जी को उनकी जयंती पर शत-शत नमन। मूल्यों और सिद्धांतों पर आधारित उनका जीवन देशवासियों के लिए हमेशा प्रेरणास्रोत बना रहेगा।
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1444103920700178433?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Shastri was also born on the same day as Mahatma Gandhi in 1904 in Mughalsarai district of Uttar Pradesh. Known for leading the country through an India-Pakistan war in 1965 and coining the popular phrase ‘Jai Jawan Jai Kisan’, Shastri lost his life to a cardiac arrest on January 11, 1966.

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On the occasion of the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Raj Ghat to pay tributes to the ‘father of the nation’. The Prime Minister laid flowers at Raj Ghat, the memorial dedicated to Gandhi in India’s national capital city, New Delhi.

On the occasion of the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Raj Ghat to pay tributes to the ‘father of the nation’. The Prime Minister laid flowers at Raj Ghat, the memorial dedicated to Gandhi in India’s national capital city, New Delhi. #WATCH Prime Minister Narendra Modi pays floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat on #GandhiJayanti pic.twitter.com/GE63jP2Nhe — ANI (@ANI) October 2, 2021 × An ardent follower of Gandhi’s principles, PM Modi said Mahatma Gandhi’s principle are still globally relevant and provides strength to follow the route of non-violence to millions of people around the world. "Tributes to the Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi on his birth anniversary. I bow to respected Bapu on Gandhi Jayanti. The life and ideals of Pujya Bapu will continue to inspire every generation of the country to walk on the path of duty. His noble principles are globally relevant and give strength to millions," he tweeted. राष्ट्रपिता महात्मा गांधी को उनकी जन्म-जयंती पर विनम्र श्रद्धांजलि। पूज्य बापू का जीवन और आदर्श देश की हर पीढ़ी को कर्तव्य पथ पर चलने के लिए प्रेरित करता रहेगा। I bow to respected Bapu on Gandhi Jayanti. His noble principles are globally relevant and give strength to millions. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 2, 2021 × Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, popularly known as Mahatma Gandhi, was born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar town of Gujarat state of India. Gandhi was an ardent supporter of non-violence and a supporter of peace. In memory of him and to promote his values, October 02 is celebrated as International Day of Non-Violence all over the world. India's President Ram Nath Kovind and Vice-President M. Venkaiah Naidu also paid their respects at the Raj Ghat. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also reiterated his calls for peace on this occasion. “On this International Day of Non-Violence - Gandhi's birthday - let's heed his message of peace, and commit to building a better future for all,” he tweeted. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Modi also paid his respects to the former Prime Minister of India, Lal Bahadur Shastri. "Tributes to former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri ji on his birth anniversary. His life based on values and principles will always remain a source of inspiration for the countrymen," he tweeted. पूर्व प्रधानमंत्री लाल बहादुर शास्त्री जी को उनकी जयंती पर शत-शत नमन। मूल्यों और सिद्धांतों पर आधारित उनका जीवन देशवासियों के लिए हमेशा प्रेरणास्रोत बना रहेगा। — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 2, 2021 × Shastri was also born on the same day as Mahatma Gandhi in 1904 in Mughalsarai district of Uttar Pradesh. Known for leading the country through an India-Pakistan war in 1965 and coining the popular phrase ‘Jai Jawan Jai Kisan’, Shastri lost his life to a cardiac arrest on January 11, 1966.

PM Modi pays respects to Mahatma Gandhi on his birth anniversary

On the occasion of International Day of Non-Violence, the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reiterated his call for peace as he said, "Hatred, division and conflict have had their day".

Paying a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on the occasion of his 152nd anniversary, Guterres urged that this is the time to usher in a new era of peace, trust and tolerance. "On this International Day of Non-Violence - Gandhi's birthday - let's heed his message of peace, and commit to building a better future for all," Guterres wrote on his official Twitter handle.&nbsp;

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Hatred, division and conflict 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 - Gandhi's birthday - let's heed his message of peace, and commit to building a better future for all.
— António Guterres (@antonioguterres) <a href="https://twitter.com/antonioguterres/status/1444106105093693440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The International Day of Non-Violence is observed on October 2, the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi.

According to the General Assembly resolution of June 15, 2007, which established the commemoration, International Day is an occasion to "disseminate the message of non-violence, including through education and public awareness". The resolution reaffirms "the universal relevance of the principle of non-violence" and the desire "to secure a culture of peace, tolerance, understanding and non-violence".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-barack-obama-to-albert-einstein-mahatma-gandhi-inspired-famous-personalities-around-the-world-417515">Also read |&nbsp;From Barack Obama to Albert Einstein: Mahatma Gandhi inspired famous personalities around the world</a>

Earlier, in his address during the 76th Session of the UNGA, the Secretary-General had warned global leaders that the world has never been more threatened or more divided, and is facing the "greatest cascade" of crises, citing the COVID pandemic, a global climate crisis, and unrest in Afghanistan and other countries as examples.

"I fear our world is creeping towards two different sets of economic, trade, financial, and technology rules, two divergent approaches in the development of artificial intelligence, and ultimately, two different military and geopolitical strategies," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mahatma-gandhi-as-a-journalist-what-the-father-of-nation-said-about-newspapers-417484">Also read |&nbsp;Mahatma Gandhi as a journalist: What the Father of Nation said about newspapers&nbsp;</a>

He further added, "I am here to sound the alarm: The world must wake up. We are on the edge of an abyss — and moving in the wrong direction. Our world has never been more threatened. Or more divided. We face the greatest cascade of crises in our lifetimes."

On the occasion of International Day of Non-Violence, the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reiterated his call for peace as he said, "Hatred, division and conflict have had their day".

On the occasion of International Day of Non-Violence, the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reiterated his call for peace as he said, "Hatred, division and conflict have had their day". Paying a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on the occasion of his 152nd anniversary, Guterres urged that this is the time to usher in a new era of peace, trust and tolerance. "On this International Day of Non-Violence - Gandhi's birthday - let's heed his message of peace, and commit to building a better future for all," Guterres wrote on his official Twitter handle. Hatred, division and conflict 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 - Gandhi's birthday - let's heed his message of peace, and commit to building a better future for all. — António Guterres (@antonioguterres) October 2, 2021 × The International Day of Non-Violence is observed on October 2, the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi. According to the General Assembly resolution of June 15, 2007, which established the commemoration, International Day is an occasion to "disseminate the message of non-violence, including through education and public awareness". The resolution reaffirms "the universal relevance of the principle of non-violence" and the desire "to secure a culture of peace, tolerance, understanding and non-violence". Also read | From Barack Obama to Albert Einstein: Mahatma Gandhi inspired famous personalities around the world Earlier, in his address during the 76th Session of the UNGA, the Secretary-General had warned global leaders that the world has never been more threatened or more divided, and is facing the "greatest cascade" of crises, citing the COVID pandemic, a global climate crisis, and unrest in Afghanistan and other countries as examples. "I fear our world is creeping towards two different sets of economic, trade, financial, and technology rules, two divergent approaches in the development of artificial intelligence, and ultimately, two different military and geopolitical strategies," he said. Also read | Mahatma Gandhi as a journalist: What the Father of Nation said about newspapers He further added, "I am here to sound the alarm: The world must wake up. We are on the edge of an abyss — and moving in the wrong direction. Our world has never been more threatened. Or more divided. We face the greatest cascade of crises in our lifetimes."

UN Chief Antonio Guterres reiterates his call for peace on Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary

Today&nbsp;is October 2nd, Mahatma Gandhi's 152nd birth anniversary.

While Indians know Mahatma Gandhi as a towering freedom fighter, the world knows him as a social reformer and politician, the man who beat the British empire. For some -- he was a spiritual guide, for others -- a political mentor. 
 
But there was another much less talked about part of his life; the life of Mahatma Gandhi, the journalist. That journey also began in South Africa, with him becoming the South African correspondent of The Voice of India, a newspaper started by Dadabhai Naoroji.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-i-want-to-make-a-film-about-gandhian-values-because-ahimsa-remains-a-timeless-human-virtue-anand-pandit-417437">I want to make a film about Gandhian values because 'ahimsa' remains a timeless human virtue: Anand Pandit</a>

During the second Boer war from 1899 to 1902, Mahatma Gandhi was a war correspondent.&nbsp;While in South Africa, he saw racial injustice, war and violence. Those experiences shaped his view on journalism.

Back then, in the absence of TVs or blogs, when newspapers were synonymous with Journalism, Gandhi said, “One of the objectives of a newspaper is to understand the popular feeling and give expression to it. Another to arouse among the people certain desirable sentiments and the third is to express fearlessly -- popular defects.”

You could put those words in any modern-day editorial and they wouldn't look out of place. 
 
In 1903 Mahatma Gandhi started publishing his own newspaper, The Indian Opinion, his mission was simple; Not to make money, or fame, but to bring change.

In Pics |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-barack-obama-to-albert-einstein-how-mahatma-gandhi-inspired-famous-personalities-around-the-world-417515">From Barack Obama to Albert Einstein: Mahatma Gandhi inspired famous personalities around the world</a> 
 
Many years later, in 1925 Gandhi explained his decision to become a journalist. He wrote, “I have taken up journalism, not for its sake, but merely as an aid to what I have conceived to be my mission in life. My mission is to teach by example and present under severe restraint the use of the matchless weapon of Satyagraha,”

As Mahatma Gandhi once said, "the sole aim of journalism should be service."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-india-independence-so-many-female-freedom-fighters-but-so-little-screen-space-why-405195">India Independence: So many female freedom fighters, but so little screen space. Why?</a>

Even though his words and beliefs are nearly a century old, because of Mahatma Gandhi’s rare gift of foresight, they are still relevant to date. 
 
He himself never published advertisements, or sensationalised news. He believed in honest and measured reporting, which is why he despised advertisements, he never saw newspapers as a source of income, he saw them as a means to educate people.

“It is now an established practice with newspapers to depend for revenues mainly on advertisements rather than on subscriptions. The result has been deplorable. The very newspaper which writes against the evil of drink publishes advertisements in praise of drinks. In the same issue, we read of the harmful effects of tobacco as also from where to buy it.”

Something Gandhi once wrote in Young India, remains till date the quintessential advice for a journalist. &nbsp;“To be true to my faith, I may not write in anger or malice. I may not write idly. I may not write&nbsp; merely to excite passion. The reader can have no idea of the restraint I have to exercise from week to week in the choice of topics and my vocabulary. It is training for me.”

It is hard to argue with the logic.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mahatma-gandhi-could-not-celebrate-the-first-independence-day-in-delhi-heres-why-405000">Mahatma Gandhi could not celebrate the first Independence Day in Delhi. Here's why</a>

Even though he represented a rare kind of resolve, his opinions and beliefs were ironclad, he was never dismissive, and always gave diplomacy and talks -- a fair chance. 
 
It didn't matter who he was dealing with, the imperial racist -- Winston Churchill, or the Nazi dictator -- Adolf Hitler. In fact, Gandhi wrote an open letter to Hitler, which was never published.

Criticising Hitler's policies, he rejected the Nazi thought, but kept the door open for reform, “your writings and pronouncements leave no room for doubt that many of your acts are monstrous and unbecoming of human dignity. Such as your humiliation of Czechoslovakia, the rape of Poland and the swallowing of Denmark."

His advice to Hitler was clear, "It is a marvel to me that you do not see that war is nobody's monopoly. If not the British, some other power will certainly improve your method and beat you with your weapon. I, therefore appeal to you in the name of humanity to stop the war."

Time proved him right, Hitler lost the war and his life. 
 
Today when Expansionism is on the march again, there is talk of arms race and cold wars, and diplomacy is becoming the tool of last resort, world leaders would do well to remember the Mahatma's words.

On October 2nd, when we usually remember Gandhi, &nbsp;the freedom fighter and Gandhi -- the social reformer. Tomorrow, let's celebrate Gandhi -- the Journalist and Statesman, his principles, his restraint and his patience could hold the key to our geopolitical troubles.

Today is October 2nd, Mahatma Gandhi's 152nd birth anniversary. While Indians know Mahatma Gandhi as a towering freedom fighter, the world knows him as a social reformer and politician, the man who beat the British empire.

Today is October 2nd, Mahatma Gandhi's 152nd birth anniversary. While Indians know Mahatma Gandhi as a towering freedom fighter, the world knows him as a social reformer and politician, the man who beat the British empire. For some -- he was a spiritual guide, for others -- a political mentor. But there was another much less talked about part of his life; the life of Mahatma Gandhi, the journalist. That journey also began in South Africa, with him becoming the South African correspondent of The Voice of India, a newspaper started by Dadabhai Naoroji. Also read | I want to make a film about Gandhian values because 'ahimsa' remains a timeless human virtue: Anand Pandit During the second Boer war from 1899 to 1902, Mahatma Gandhi was a war correspondent. While in South Africa, he saw racial injustice, war and violence. Those experiences shaped his view on journalism. Back then, in the absence of TVs or blogs, when newspapers were synonymous with Journalism, Gandhi said, “One of the objectives of a newspaper is to understand the popular feeling and give expression to it. Another to arouse among the people certain desirable sentiments and the third is to express fearlessly -- popular defects.” You could put those words in any modern-day editorial and they wouldn't look out of place. In 1903 Mahatma Gandhi started publishing his own newspaper, The Indian Opinion, his mission was simple; Not to make money, or fame, but to bring change. In Pics | From Barack Obama to Albert Einstein: Mahatma Gandhi inspired famous personalities around the world Many years later, in 1925 Gandhi explained his decision to become a journalist. He wrote, “I have taken up journalism, not for its sake, but merely as an aid to what I have conceived to be my mission in life. My mission is to teach by example and present under severe restraint the use of the matchless weapon of Satyagraha,” As Mahatma Gandhi once said, "the sole aim of journalism should be service." Also read | India Independence: So many female freedom fighters, but so little screen space. Why? Even though his words and beliefs are nearly a century old, because of Mahatma Gandhi’s rare gift of foresight, they are still relevant to date. He himself never published advertisements, or sensationalised news. He believed in honest and measured reporting, which is why he despised advertisements, he never saw newspapers as a source of income, he saw them as a means to educate people. “It is now an established practice with newspapers to depend for revenues mainly on advertisements rather than on subscriptions. The result has been deplorable. The very newspaper which writes against the evil of drink publishes advertisements in praise of drinks. In the same issue, we read of the harmful effects of tobacco as also from where to buy it.” Something Gandhi once wrote in Young India, remains till date the quintessential advice for a journalist. “To be true to my faith, I may not write in anger or malice. I may not write idly. I may not write merely to excite passion. The reader can have no idea of the restraint I have to exercise from week to week in the choice of topics and my vocabulary. It is training for me.” It is hard to argue with the logic. Also read | Mahatma Gandhi could not celebrate the first Independence Day in Delhi. Here's why Even though he represented a rare kind of resolve, his opinions and beliefs were ironclad, he was never dismissive, and always gave diplomacy and talks -- a fair chance. It didn't matter who he was dealing with, the imperial racist -- Winston Churchill, or the Nazi dictator -- Adolf Hitler. In fact, Gandhi wrote an open letter to Hitler, which was never published. Criticising Hitler's policies, he rejected the Nazi thought, but kept the door open for reform, “your writings and pronouncements leave no room for doubt that many of your acts are monstrous and unbecoming of human dignity. Such as your humiliation of Czechoslovakia, the rape of Poland and the swallowing of Denmark." His advice to Hitler was clear, "It is a marvel to me that you do not see that war is nobody's monopoly. If not the British, some other power will certainly improve your method and beat you with your weapon. I, therefore appeal to you in the name of humanity to stop the war." Time proved him right, Hitler lost the war and his life. Today when Expansionism is on the march again, there is talk of arms race and cold wars, and diplomacy is becoming the tool of last resort, world leaders would do well to remember the Mahatma's words. On October 2nd, when we usually remember Gandhi, the freedom fighter and Gandhi -- the social reformer. Tomorrow, let's celebrate Gandhi -- the Journalist and Statesman, his principles, his restraint and his patience could hold the key to our geopolitical troubles.

Mahatma Gandhi as a journalist: What the Father of Nation said about newspapers

Born in India, educated in England, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi travelled to South Africa in early 1893 to practice law and then he spent 21 years fighting against injustice, class division and oppression.

South Africa: Mahatma Gandhi spent 21 years fighting against injustice, class division & oppression

So many actors, over the last few decades, have play&nbsp;Mahatma Gandhi on screen but the one portrayal that has resonated the most with the audience is Sir Ben Kingsley's version of the late leader in 'Gandhi' (1982).&nbsp;

 
As Bapu--lovingly called by Indians--Kingsley not only internalised the role for the screen but also give it his all. Not-so-surprisingly, Kingsley won the Best Actor Oscar Award for essaying the prominent figure.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-jane-fonda-to-be-honoured-with-humanitarian-award-by-women-in-film-417572">Jane Fonda to be honoured with humanitarian award by Women In Film</a>

 
On Mahatma Gandhi's 152nd birthday today, let us rewind to the time when <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sir-ben-kingsley-freddie-mercury-charli-xcx-hollywood-celebs-you-didnt-know-have-indian-roots-397893">Sir Ben Kingsley</a> talked about the funeral scene and how around 4lac Indians had gathered on set to shoot it.&nbsp;

 
"I think that the coincidence of loving (Gandhi) deeply as a man to portray, did empower me through those long demanding days in India. And people in India were enormously generous. You see, there was no CGI, can you believe that? That is four hundred thousand people at his funeral. That felt extraordinary to me," he had said in an exclusive interview in 2019 for GQ.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-neil-patrick-harris-to-launch-a-lifestyle-newsletter-417557">Neil Patrick Harris to launch a lifestyle newsletter</a>

 
Despite the Oscar win and critical appreciation, Kingsley said that he had thought it would be impossible to bring Gandhi to life on celluloid. He had said, "I remember Richard Attenborough invited me to watch some footage of Mahatma Gandhi with him and there's - he's very well documented, recordings photographs and unusual footage because he was an iconic character - and I watched five hours of news reel footage in one sitting, decided that it was impossible, left the cinema and didn't look at anymore footage ever again. But Attenborough made the impossible, possible. It was like standing on the foothills of the largest ice covered mountain you've ever seen thinking I'll go up one foot and slide down five. But he got me through it."

 
'Gandhi' also starred Rohini Hattangadi, Saeed Jaffrey, Om Puri, Amrish Puri and Neena Gupta, among other actors.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-aladdin-broadway-cancelled-for-two-weeks-amid-new-covid-19-cases-within-the-company-417575">'Aladdin' broadway cancelled for two weeks amid new Covid-19 cases within the company</a>

The film won eight awards at the Oscars, with costume designer Bhanu Athaiya becoming the first Indian ever to have won an Academy Award.&nbsp;

So many actors, over the last few decades, have play Mahatma Gandhi on screen but the one portrayal that has resonated the most with the audience is Sir Ben Kingsley's version of the late leader in 'Gandhi' (1982).

So many actors, over the last few decades, have play Mahatma Gandhi on screen but the one portrayal that has resonated the most with the audience is Sir Ben Kingsley's version of the late leader in 'Gandhi' (1982). As Bapu--lovingly called by Indians--Kingsley not only internalised the role for the screen but also give it his all. Not-so-surprisingly, Kingsley won the Best Actor Oscar Award for essaying the prominent figure. Also read: Jane Fonda to be honoured with humanitarian award by Women In Film On Mahatma Gandhi's 152nd birthday today, let us rewind to the time when Sir Ben Kingsley talked about the funeral scene and how around 4lac Indians had gathered on set to shoot it. "I think that the coincidence of loving (Gandhi) deeply as a man to portray, did empower me through those long demanding days in India. And people in India were enormously generous. You see, there was no CGI, can you believe that? That is four hundred thousand people at his funeral. That felt extraordinary to me," he had said in an exclusive interview in 2019 for GQ. Also read: Neil Patrick Harris to launch a lifestyle newsletter Despite the Oscar win and critical appreciation, Kingsley said that he had thought it would be impossible to bring Gandhi to life on celluloid. He had said, "I remember Richard Attenborough invited me to watch some footage of Mahatma Gandhi with him and there's - he's very well documented, recordings photographs and unusual footage because he was an iconic character - and I watched five hours of news reel footage in one sitting, decided that it was impossible, left the cinema and didn't look at anymore footage ever again. But Attenborough made the impossible, possible. It was like standing on the foothills of the largest ice covered mountain you've ever seen thinking I'll go up one foot and slide down five. But he got me through it." 'Gandhi' also starred Rohini Hattangadi, Saeed Jaffrey, Om Puri, Amrish Puri and Neena Gupta, among other actors. Also read: 'Aladdin' broadway cancelled for two weeks amid new Covid-19 cases within the company The film won eight awards at the Oscars, with costume designer Bhanu Athaiya becoming the first Indian ever to have won an Academy Award.

Mahatma Gandhi turns 152: When half a million Indians crowded Ben Kingsley's 'Gandhi'

As the world gears up to celebrate Mahatma Gandhi's 152nd birth anniversary, Palki Sharma looks back at the journalist & diplomat in him. What would Gandhi say to our current world leaders?

Gravitas: What would Mahatma Gandhi say to current world leaders?

Climate Change is the buzz-word these days, and it seems as if no conversation is complete without bringing it up, even if dropped casually, understood or misunderstood. I shall not delve into that debate. However, what is important is that it has caught people’s attention and concern-Are we heading towards a doomsday?&nbsp; 
Unfortunately, it seems so. As the recent IPCC Climate Change Report has sounded “RED CODE” that every part of the earth is experiencing climate change.

Mahatma Gandhi had said that “The Earth has enough resources for our need but not for our greed”. This is so true. Humans, perceiving themselves as superior beings, have always wanted to conquer and control every part of the universe, including the environment and nature. This path of unsustainable development has come with a price, which we are paying today, and unfortunately there seems to be a path of no return for generations to come.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thirty-years-of-blah-blah-blah-greta-thunberg-slams-climate-talks-bureaucracy-416816">Thirty years of 'blah blah blah': Greta Thunberg slams climate talks bureaucracy</a>

As we are racing to contain global warming at 1.5 degrees Celsius to save our planet, it is the most marginalized children and their families who are getting impacted by environment degradation, protracted disaster and climate events, for no fault of theirs. They may be contributing the least to climate change, but face the maximum impact of stress and shocks, so much so that at times their own survival and existence becomes a question mark.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-using-scientific-solutions-to-tackle-climate-change-impact-on-agriculture-pm-modi-416536">India using scientific solutions to tackle climate change impact on agriculture: PM Modi</a>

The UN Committee on the Rights of the Child in its report “Children’s Rights and Environment Violations of their Rights” has stated that environmental harm can have irreversible, lifelong and even transgenerational consequences. The children are said to be particularly vulnerable, due to their evolving physical and mental development, and status within society. The report also says that over half a billion children live in areas with extremely high risk of flooding, 115 million are at high or extremely high risk from tropical cyclones, and almost 160 million are exposed to high or extremely high drought severity.

Some theories even suggest that COVID-19 may be just the starting point. The humanity may actually be facing more pandemics as we continue to reduce forest cover and biodiversity creating an ecological imbalance and exposing ourselves to diseases and threats.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/the-world-should-follow-indias-path-on-climate-change-first-solar-ceo-tells-pm-modi-415330">The world should follow India's path on climate change: First Solar CEO tells PM Modi</a>

India is a young country where 40% of its total population are children below 18 years. This means that any impact related to environment, disaster, and climate is going to greatly affect almost half of India’s population with many on the fringes, in terms of their basic needs to health and nutrition, learning, and protection. The devastating consequences could range from increase in vector and bacterial borne diseases, hunger, loss of learning and livelihood, to exploitative situations such as child labour, trafficking, and child marriage to mention but a few.

As in any humanitarian crisis, it is the women and girls who are impacted the most, differently than men and boys, and also have unique needs, which are ignored most of the time. They are the first to adjust and compromise on their needs, and the last to receive any access to information, services or benefits, especially in a country like ours where gender disparity exists in every helm of the life, is deeply entrenched in patriarchy and harmful social and cultural norms. Climate change may actually further widen the existing gender

Inequalities, with the women and girls seeing lesser food on their plates, unable to continue schooling due to less resources at home, or have no access to safer transport and mobility in events of frequent floods or landslides. Here, most women are engaged in informal sector, including ancillary and home-based work, and their livelihoods will be greatly impacted by protracted disasters and climate events. Women largely invest their earnings on their children, and any loss in their income will have a direct bearing on the overall well-being. Women will also be forced to opt for jobs which provide them with meager income, less safety and security, and expose them more to exploitative situations.

This situation may seem to be accentuated. However, everything may not be lost. The call of the hour is for collective actions by the government, civil society organizations and citizens. As protracted disasters and climate events are localized, a universal child benefit programme which can be adapted to the given situation would greatly help children to overcome shocks and stress. Localized resilience and climate change adaptation programmes, specifically looking at children’s needs should be included in the Local Governance plans, both rural and urban, and should be developed in consultation with affected communities including the children and women. India is one of the countries with a large number of social protection programmes and this is an opportunity to review and make them climate proof keeping children in the core, thereby benefitting large number of children and their families. As women and girls are affected differently during disasters and climate events and have their own unique needs, all the programmes of the government aimed at mitigating climate change should be gender transformative and child sensitive.

Addressing climate change is everyone’s responsibility. Therefore, the government should meaningfully involve and engage the Panchayati Raj Institutions, Urban Local Bodies, schools, Resident Welfare Associations, self-help groups, youth groups, corporates, civil society organizations and others to create a mass movement where children, youth, and communities take concrete localized action towards net zero carbon emission.

For instance, schools adopting green measures including switching to clean energy, recycling waste and grey water should be awarded. Waste management, recycling of waste water, rain water harvesting, using clean energy, and maintaining minimum tree cover should be made mandatory to all resident welfare associations. Self-help groups should be provided with cheaper loans and appropriate technology for green entrepreneurships, creating green assets such as afforestation of wasteland, conservation of local forests, better watershed management, upkeep of traditional water systems, grain banks and conserving local biodiversity.

Livelihood options such as eco-tourism should be promoted not only to further the local economy, but also to promote sustainable tourism and conserve nature. It is our responsibility to imbibe a sustainable lifestyle which is not only environment friendly but also does not harm the mother earth.

As Chief Seattle quoted in one of his famous speeches “All things are connected. Whatever befalls the earth befalls the sons of the earth. Man does not weave the web of life; he is merely a strand of it. Whatever he does to the web, he does to himself.”

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Climate Change is the buzz-word these days, and it seems as if no conversation is complete without bringing it up, even if dropped casually, understood or misunderstood.

Climate Change is the buzz-word these days, and it seems as if no conversation is complete without bringing it up, even if dropped casually, understood or misunderstood. I shall not delve into that debate. However, what is important is that it has caught people’s attention and concern-Are we heading towards a doomsday? Unfortunately, it seems so. As the recent IPCC Climate Change Report has sounded “RED CODE” that every part of the earth is experiencing climate change. Mahatma Gandhi had said that “The Earth has enough resources for our need but not for our greed”. This is so true. Humans, perceiving themselves as superior beings, have always wanted to conquer and control every part of the universe, including the environment and nature. This path of unsustainable development has come with a price, which we are paying today, and unfortunately there seems to be a path of no return for generations to come. Also Read | Thirty years of 'blah blah blah': Greta Thunberg slams climate talks bureaucracy As we are racing to contain global warming at 1.5 degrees Celsius to save our planet, it is the most marginalized children and their families who are getting impacted by environment degradation, protracted disaster and climate events, for no fault of theirs. They may be contributing the least to climate change, but face the maximum impact of stress and shocks, so much so that at times their own survival and existence becomes a question mark. Also Read | India using scientific solutions to tackle climate change impact on agriculture: PM Modi The UN Committee on the Rights of the Child in its report “Children’s Rights and Environment Violations of their Rights” has stated that environmental harm can have irreversible, lifelong and even transgenerational consequences. The children are said to be particularly vulnerable, due to their evolving physical and mental development, and status within society. The report also says that over half a billion children live in areas with extremely high risk of flooding, 115 million are at high or extremely high risk from tropical cyclones, and almost 160 million are exposed to high or extremely high drought severity. Some theories even suggest that COVID-19 may be just the starting point. The humanity may actually be facing more pandemics as we continue to reduce forest cover and biodiversity creating an ecological imbalance and exposing ourselves to diseases and threats. Also Read | The world should follow India's path on climate change: First Solar CEO tells PM Modi India is a young country where 40% of its total population are children below 18 years. This means that any impact related to environment, disaster, and climate is going to greatly affect almost half of India’s population with many on the fringes, in terms of their basic needs to health and nutrition, learning, and protection. The devastating consequences could range from increase in vector and bacterial borne diseases, hunger, loss of learning and livelihood, to exploitative situations such as child labour, trafficking, and child marriage to mention but a few. As in any humanitarian crisis, it is the women and girls who are impacted the most, differently than men and boys, and also have unique needs, which are ignored most of the time. They are the first to adjust and compromise on their needs, and the last to receive any access to information, services or benefits, especially in a country like ours where gender disparity exists in every helm of the life, is deeply entrenched in patriarchy and harmful social and cultural norms. Climate change may actually further widen the existing gender Inequalities, with the women and girls seeing lesser food on their plates, unable to continue schooling due to less resources at home, or have no access to safer transport and mobility in events of frequent floods or landslides. Here, most women are engaged in informal sector, including ancillary and home-based work, and their livelihoods will be greatly impacted by protracted disasters and climate events. Women largely invest their earnings on their children, and any loss in their income will have a direct bearing on the overall well-being. Women will also be forced to opt for jobs which provide them with meager income, less safety and security, and expose them more to exploitative situations. This situation may seem to be accentuated. However, everything may not be lost. The call of the hour is for collective actions by the government, civil society organizations and citizens. As protracted disasters and climate events are localized, a universal child benefit programme which can be adapted to the given situation would greatly help children to overcome shocks and stress. Localized resilience and climate change adaptation programmes, specifically looking at children’s needs should be included in the Local Governance plans, both rural and urban, and should be developed in consultation with affected communities including the children and women. India is one of the countries with a large number of social protection programmes and this is an opportunity to review and make them climate proof keeping children in the core, thereby benefitting large number of children and their families. As women and girls are affected differently during disasters and climate events and have their own unique needs, all the programmes of the government aimed at mitigating climate change should be gender transformative and child sensitive. Addressing climate change is everyone’s responsibility. Therefore, the government should meaningfully involve and engage the Panchayati Raj Institutions, Urban Local Bodies, schools, Resident Welfare Associations, self-help groups, youth groups, corporates, civil society organizations and others to create a mass movement where children, youth, and communities take concrete localized action towards net zero carbon emission. For instance, schools adopting green measures including switching to clean energy, recycling waste and grey water should be awarded. Waste management, recycling of waste water, rain water harvesting, using clean energy, and maintaining minimum tree cover should be made mandatory to all resident welfare associations. Self-help groups should be provided with cheaper loans and appropriate technology for green entrepreneurships, creating green assets such as afforestation of wasteland, conservation of local forests, better watershed management, upkeep of traditional water systems, grain banks and conserving local biodiversity. Livelihood options such as eco-tourism should be promoted not only to further the local economy, but also to promote sustainable tourism and conserve nature. It is our responsibility to imbibe a sustainable lifestyle which is not only environment friendly but also does not harm the mother earth. As Chief Seattle quoted in one of his famous speeches “All things are connected. Whatever befalls the earth befalls the sons of the earth. Man does not weave the web of life; he is merely a strand of it. Whatever he does to the web, he does to himself.” (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinion | Climate Change: Everyone’s business for the present and the future generation

Threats against the Indian-origin community in South Africa do exist after the recent violence, but the government is doing everything in its power to counter it, Mahatma Gandhi's granddaughter Ela Gandhi said on Monday, August 23, 2021.

Protests against the incarceration of former president Jacob Zuma on July 7 rapidly devolved into orgies of looting and arson in the two provinces of KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng.

Zuma has been sentenced for contempt of court after he repeatedly refused to testify at the Commission of Inquiry into State Capture, where several witnesses have implicated him in corruption.

Some media reports on the violence which wracked the provinces of KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng last month said that Indian-origin South Africans bore the brunt of the attack, some even stating that 'many' of the 330 people killed as looters went on the rampage were of Indian origin.

"This is not quite correct. Certainly, there were a number of Indian-owned businesses that were looted or burnt down, but they were among the scores more, many owned by national chain-store groups, that were raided by the looters. There were also no direct attacks on any Indians that we are aware of. As far as deaths go, we believe that only two or three of those killed were of Indian-origin," Gandhi said.

"What I said was that terrorist attacks by anyone anywhere in the world could occur at any time, not just against any particular community in South Africa only," Gandhi said, reacting to some reports in the Indian media quoting her as saying that attacks could happen anytime anywhere.

"We can't deny that such threats do exist, especially advocated by some people on social media, but our government is doing all in its power to address this," she said.

The community leader, who heads up the Gandhi Development Trust based at the Phoenix Settlement started by Mahatma Gandhi during his tenure in South Africa, also commented on reports that there was an increased number of applications by South Africans of Indian origin for OCI cards.

"The Indian missions would be in a better position to answer that, but we know that there are people who have already migrated to places such as Australia who have been trying to get their relatives in South Africa to join them. But the recent violence should not be used as an excuse for that. We should also consider that hundreds of thousands of fourth and fifth generation Indians who consider themselves to be South African citizens are still here, many of them doing their part to assist in reconciliation and rehabilitation projects after the violence," Gandhi said.

Officials at the Indian consulates in Durban and Johannesburg confirmed that there has been an increase in both applications for and enquiries about the OCI card.

Gandhi herself, together with other community leaders in the Indian and black communities, is involved in various projects aimed at reconciliation.

"Inciting calls by some people, including political leaders, which get circulated widely on social media, unfortunately do not help," Gandhi said, in an apparent reference to a statement by the leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), Julius Malema, who has often made anti-Indian remarks.

"What those Indians did there in Phoenix is unforgettable, we will never forgive them for what they did to our people. And those are Indian criminals, they must be called exactly that. We are not going to make any apology about that," Malema had said in an interview with radio station Khaya FM after the recent violence.

There were 22 Black people killed in Phoenix, allegedly at the hands of Indian vigilantes, many of whom are now facing murder and manslaughter charges.

During the riots around the largely Indian area of Phoenix, which is surrounded by three Black informal settlements, the Phoenix Settlement remained untouched as looters raided and burnt down neighbouring businesses.

Advocate Mahomed Saleem Khan (SC) cautioned Malema in a widely circulated social media post that if he persisted with his anti-Indian remarks, he would institute legal proceedings against him.

"(Indians) have honoured South Africa and the African continent with significant, material and continuing contributions towards, inter alia, commercial and cultural development," Khan said.

Popular Indian-origin comedian and social commentator Karou Charou, whose real name is Mahdevan Moodley, also made an online plea to the Black community to ignore the racist remarks on social media and work together with the Indian community to achieve more.

"The majority of people from the informal settlements (around Phoenix) are employed by Indian businesses and households. The Indian community around these informal settlements drives this mini-economy and that is an undeniable fact, whether you like it or not," Moodley said.

Threats against the Indian-origin community in South Africa do exist after the recent violence, but the government is doing everything in its power to counter it, Mahatma Gandhi's granddaughter Ela Gandhi said on Monday, August 23, 2021.

Threats against the Indian-origin community in South Africa do exist after the recent violence, but the government is doing everything in its power to counter it, Mahatma Gandhi's granddaughter Ela Gandhi said on Monday, August 23, 2021. Protests against the incarceration of former president Jacob Zuma on July 7 rapidly devolved into orgies of looting and arson in the two provinces of KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng. Zuma has been sentenced for contempt of court after he repeatedly refused to testify at the Commission of Inquiry into State Capture, where several witnesses have implicated him in corruption. Some media reports on the violence which wracked the provinces of KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng last month said that Indian-origin South Africans bore the brunt of the attack, some even stating that 'many' of the 330 people killed as looters went on the rampage were of Indian origin. "This is not quite correct. Certainly, there were a number of Indian-owned businesses that were looted or burnt down, but they were among the scores more, many owned by national chain-store groups, that were raided by the looters. There were also no direct attacks on any Indians that we are aware of. As far as deaths go, we believe that only two or three of those killed were of Indian-origin," Gandhi said. "What I said was that terrorist attacks by anyone anywhere in the world could occur at any time, not just against any particular community in South Africa only," Gandhi said, reacting to some reports in the Indian media quoting her as saying that attacks could happen anytime anywhere. "We can't deny that such threats do exist, especially advocated by some people on social media, but our government is doing all in its power to address this," she said. The community leader, who heads up the Gandhi Development Trust based at the Phoenix Settlement started by Mahatma Gandhi during his tenure in South Africa, also commented on reports that there was an increased number of applications by South Africans of Indian origin for OCI cards. "The Indian missions would be in a better position to answer that, but we know that there are people who have already migrated to places such as Australia who have been trying to get their relatives in South Africa to join them. But the recent violence should not be used as an excuse for that. We should also consider that hundreds of thousands of fourth and fifth generation Indians who consider themselves to be South African citizens are still here, many of them doing their part to assist in reconciliation and rehabilitation projects after the violence," Gandhi said. Officials at the Indian consulates in Durban and Johannesburg confirmed that there has been an increase in both applications for and enquiries about the OCI card. Gandhi herself, together with other community leaders in the Indian and black communities, is involved in various projects aimed at reconciliation. "Inciting calls by some people, including political leaders, which get circulated widely on social media, unfortunately do not help," Gandhi said, in an apparent reference to a statement by the leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), Julius Malema, who has often made anti-Indian remarks. "What those Indians did there in Phoenix is unforgettable, we will never forgive them for what they did to our people. And those are Indian criminals, they must be called exactly that. We are not going to make any apology about that," Malema had said in an interview with radio station Khaya FM after the recent violence. There were 22 Black people killed in Phoenix, allegedly at the hands of Indian vigilantes, many of whom are now facing murder and manslaughter charges. During the riots around the largely Indian area of Phoenix, which is surrounded by three Black informal settlements, the Phoenix Settlement remained untouched as looters raided and burnt down neighbouring businesses. Advocate Mahomed Saleem Khan (SC) cautioned Malema in a widely circulated social media post that if he persisted with his anti-Indian remarks, he would institute legal proceedings against him. "(Indians) have honoured South Africa and the African continent with significant, material and continuing contributions towards, inter alia, commercial and cultural development," Khan said. Popular Indian-origin comedian and social commentator Karou Charou, whose real name is Mahdevan Moodley, also made an online plea to the Black community to ignore the racist remarks on social media and work together with the Indian community to achieve more. "The majority of people from the informal settlements (around Phoenix) are employed by Indian businesses and households. The Indian community around these informal settlements drives this mini-economy and that is an undeniable fact, whether you like it or not," Moodley said.

Threats against Indians in South Africa do exist, but government doing all it can to counter this: Mahatma Gandhi's grand-daughter

"If you want something said, ask a man; if you want something done, ask a woman,"&nbsp;Margaret Thatcher once said about women’s innate quality to act, not react. These resounding words hold true everywhere in the world, and more so in India.

 
What started as a religious rebellion against removal of greased cartridges with one’s teeth—the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857—led to the overthrowing of British Raj from an angry, suppressed India. Everyone fought the good fight: some externally, others within.

<img alt="Capt Laxmi Sehgal" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e79ec26d-fe6f-441c-b91f-1a3d4b6bddca" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/pjimage%20-%202021-08-13T182525.560.jpg" /> 
Like men, women too have pelted stones and barked orders and sung praises of their motherland; demanding the 'Simons to go back'.&nbsp;

 
Over generations, magically, leaders like Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Azad adore the textbooks of Indian education system—both private and public—while Begum Hazrat Mahal and Aruna Asaf Alis linger on in the shadows of history.&nbsp;

<img alt="Aruna Asaf Ali" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d5bd283b-2cf2-4c13-9085-a775544b0a9e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/pjimage%20-%202021-08-13T181002.179.jpg" /> 
"There is no occasion for women to consider themselves subordinate or inferior to men,"&nbsp;said another freedom fighter, Mahatma Gandhi, and yet, he is globally known as the Father of this Nation while Sarojini Naidu’s stature as the Mother, remains vastly unknown.

 
We dare not think that the track record has enhanced with the changing time. One would be appalled to learn, if not completely astonished, that the first full-blown Hindi feature film on one of the few widely read figures attached to India’s freedom movement—Rani Laxmi Bai of Jhansi—was released only in 2019.&nbsp;

<img alt="Kangaga Ranaut in 'Manikarnika'" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5b804ff5-7d25-4d1d-a4ac-642cb342c924" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/pjimage%20-%202021-08-13T181938.035.jpg" />

 
If Bollywood took a whole of 70-odd years to hash out the specifics for their first ever woman-centric film on the nation’s rebellion, how long before they make one on another significant Laxmi— Capt Laxmi Sehgal, a revolutionary in her own right? You do the math.

 
In one of the Bhagat Singh movies—yes, there are at least seven of them—Indian actor Amrita Rao, then in the prime of her career, had played the role of Singh’s fiancée Mannewali in the National Award-winning film ‘The Legend of Bhagat Singh’.&nbsp;

<img alt="Ajay Devgn and Amrita Rao in 'The Legend of Bhagat Singh'" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="117f8722-82ad-4d87-b677-a04d9a6e91e0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/pjimage%20-%202021-08-13T182805.045.jpg" />

Only trivia that we should know is that no such character exist in reality, or so historians claim. It is strange that fictional first ladies find a space in the lives of those who fought, not the women freedom fighters themselves who were here in flesh and blood.

 
The heavyweights of Bollywood, who had the gravitas to pull off meaty roles of women behind Independence, have either settled for the role of a lover in a brothel or that of a lonely wife at home.&nbsp;

<img alt="Begum Hazrat Mahal" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4a624cff-65c7-4b41-afaa-d333a3980bbc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/pjimage%20-%202021-08-13T180904.573.jpg" />

 
Ameesha Patel, then (relatively) fresh off the success of cross-border love story ‘Gadar’, wailed away swirling along the curtains in ‘Mangal Pandey’. As for Rani Mukerji, another sidekick in the film meant for Aamir Khan’s titular character, was the steamy affair outside of home.&nbsp;

 
The film was largely criticised in the media, not once for lack of justifiable female depiction.

<img alt="Ameesha Patel and Rani Mukerji in 'Mangal Pandey: The Rising'" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c6db84df-28b6-41ad-824d-ccceb80872f6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/pjimage%20-%202021-08-13T182435.070.jpg" /> 
The rightly deserved school of female athletes have found their own biopic makers—the Mary Koms and Saina Nehwals of India; proud—but why has Bollywood and Indian cinema at large never shed light on those who cut the path out for these women to shine?

 
For Savitri Bai Phule of Maharashtra, an educationist and social reformer, to carve a small place for herself, an entire university had to change its name. So much for recognition these days.

 
This trend in cinema is in stark contrast with what poet Rumi had said centuries ago, “Woman is a ray of God… She is creative, not created.”&nbsp;

 
Bollywood needs to get on that boat of thought.

&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

"If you want something said, ask a man; if you want something done, ask a woman," Margaret Thatcher once said about women’s innate quality to act, not react. These resounding words hold true everywhere in the world, and more so in India.

"If you want something said, ask a man; if you want something done, ask a woman," Margaret Thatcher once said about women’s innate quality to act, not react. These resounding words hold true everywhere in the world, and more so in India. What started as a religious rebellion against removal of greased cartridges with one’s teeth—the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857—led to the overthrowing of British Raj from an angry, suppressed India. Everyone fought the good fight: some externally, others within. Like men, women too have pelted stones and barked orders and sung praises of their motherland; demanding the 'Simons to go back'. Over generations, magically, leaders like Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Azad adore the textbooks of Indian education system—both private and public—while Begum Hazrat Mahal and Aruna Asaf Alis linger on in the shadows of history. "There is no occasion for women to consider themselves subordinate or inferior to men," said another freedom fighter, Mahatma Gandhi, and yet, he is globally known as the Father of this Nation while Sarojini Naidu’s stature as the Mother, remains vastly unknown. We dare not think that the track record has enhanced with the changing time. One would be appalled to learn, if not completely astonished, that the first full-blown Hindi feature film on one of the few widely read figures attached to India’s freedom movement—Rani Laxmi Bai of Jhansi—was released only in 2019. If Bollywood took a whole of 70-odd years to hash out the specifics for their first ever woman-centric film on the nation’s rebellion, how long before they make one on another significant Laxmi— Capt Laxmi Sehgal, a revolutionary in her own right? You do the math. In one of the Bhagat Singh movies—yes, there are at least seven of them—Indian actor Amrita Rao, then in the prime of her career, had played the role of Singh’s fiancée Mannewali in the National Award-winning film ‘The Legend of Bhagat Singh’. Only trivia that we should know is that no such character exist in reality, or so historians claim. It is strange that fictional first ladies find a space in the lives of those who fought, not the women freedom fighters themselves who were here in flesh and blood. The heavyweights of Bollywood, who had the gravitas to pull off meaty roles of women behind Independence, have either settled for the role of a lover in a brothel or that of a lonely wife at home. Ameesha Patel, then (relatively) fresh off the success of cross-border love story ‘Gadar’, wailed away swirling along the curtains in ‘Mangal Pandey’. As for Rani Mukerji, another sidekick in the film meant for Aamir Khan’s titular character, was the steamy affair outside of home. The film was largely criticised in the media, not once for lack of justifiable female depiction. The rightly deserved school of female athletes have found their own biopic makers—the Mary Koms and Saina Nehwals of India; proud—but why has Bollywood and Indian cinema at large never shed light on those who cut the path out for these women to shine? For Savitri Bai Phule of Maharashtra, an educationist and social reformer, to carve a small place for herself, an entire university had to change its name. So much for recognition these days. This trend in cinema is in stark contrast with what poet Rumi had said centuries ago, “Woman is a ray of God… She is creative, not created.” Bollywood needs to get on that boat of thought. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

India Independence: So many female freedom fighters, but so little screen space. Why?

India celebrating its 75th year of independence on August 15, 2021.

After years of brutal British tyranny, our compatriots finally breathed free air in 1947.

On this date, Jawaharlal Nehru gave his first public speech in free India.

However, where was Mahatma Gandhi on that particular day?

Even as the country celebrated its hard-won independence on August 15, 1947, Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation, was fasting in Bengal to put a stop to the Hindu-Muslim violence.

He was on a hunger strike in Kolkata, distant from the hard-won independence celebrations in Delhi.

When the day of independence finally arrived on August 15, 1947, it was celebrated across the country.

In Calcutta, however, Mahatma Gandhi was concerned and working hard to put a stop to the bloodshed brought on by the division.

Mahatma Gandhi had stated, "To me, peace between Hindus and Muslims is more essential than the proclamation of independence."

Mahatma Gandhi wanted to go to Noakhali, which is now part of Bangladesh because it had become a gruesome hotspot of sectarian violence.

However, several local leaders persuaded Mahatma Gandhi to remain in Calcutta.

Local authorities informed Mahatma Gandhi that if he could restore peace to Calcutta, the entire Bengal across the dividing line would return to normality and harmony.

(With inputs from agencies)

India celebrating its 75th year of independence on August 15, 2021. After years of brutal British tyranny, our compatriots finally breathed free air in 1947. On this date, Jawaharlal Nehru gave his first public speech in free India.

India celebrating its 75th year of independence on August 15, 2021. After years of brutal British tyranny, our compatriots finally breathed free air in 1947. On this date, Jawaharlal Nehru gave his first public speech in free India. However, where was Mahatma Gandhi on that particular day? Even as the country celebrated its hard-won independence on August 15, 1947, Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation, was fasting in Bengal to put a stop to the Hindu-Muslim violence. He was on a hunger strike in Kolkata, distant from the hard-won independence celebrations in Delhi. When the day of independence finally arrived on August 15, 1947, it was celebrated across the country. In Calcutta, however, Mahatma Gandhi was concerned and working hard to put a stop to the bloodshed brought on by the division. Mahatma Gandhi had stated, "To me, peace between Hindus and Muslims is more essential than the proclamation of independence." Mahatma Gandhi wanted to go to Noakhali, which is now part of Bangladesh because it had become a gruesome hotspot of sectarian violence. However, several local leaders persuaded Mahatma Gandhi to remain in Calcutta. Local authorities informed Mahatma Gandhi that if he could restore peace to Calcutta, the entire Bengal across the dividing line would return to normality and harmony. (With inputs from agencies)

Mahatma Gandhi could not celebrate the first Independence Day in Delhi. Here's why

Concerned over the "enormous misuse"&nbsp;of the colonial era penal law on sedition, the Supreme Court on Thursday asked the Centre why it was not repealing the provision used by the British to 'silence'&nbsp;people like Mahatma Gandhi and to suppress the freedom movement.

Agreeing to examine the pleas filed by Editors Guild of India and a former major general, challenging the constitutionality of section 124A (sedition) in the IPC, a bench headed by Chief Justice N V Ramana said its main concern was the "misuse of law" and issued the notice to the Centre.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-will-make-sedition-law-even-more-stringent-rajnath-singh-209977">BJP will make sedition law even more stringent: Rajnath Singh</a>

The non-bailable provision makes any speech or expression that "brings or attempts to bring into hatred or contempt or excites or attempts to excite disaffection towards the Government established by law in India" a criminal offence punishable with a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.

"Mr Attorney (General), we want to ask some questions. This is the colonial-era law and the same law was used by the British to suppress the freedom movement. It was used by the British to silence Mahatma Gandhi, Gokhale and others."

"Is it still necessary to keep this in statute even after 75 years of independence?",&nbsp;asked the bench which also comprised Justices A S Bopanna and Hrishikesh Roy.

Observing that the provision on sedition has been put to "enormous misuse", it also referred to alarming misuse of Section 66 A of the Information Technology Act even after the top court set it aside long back and observed: "It can be compared to a carpenter, asked to cut wood, cut the entire forest."

"A factionist can invoke these types of (penal) provisions to implicate the other group of people,"&nbsp;the CJI said, adding that if a particular party or people do not want to hear a voice, they will use this law to implicate others.

The bench wondered at the continuance of the sedition law in the statute book for the last 75 years and said: "We do not know why the government is not taking a decision. Your government has been getting rid of stale laws."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/will-make-sedition-law-more-stringent-rajnath-singh-219016">Will make sedition law more stringent: Rajnath Singh</a>

The bench said that it was not blaming any state or government, but unfortunately, the executing agency misuses these laws and "there is no accountability"

In a hearing, conducted through video-conferencing, the bench said that if a police officer in a remote village wanted to fix a person then he can easily do so by using such provisions.

Moreover, said the bench, there was a very low percentage of convictions in sedition cases and these are the issues which are needed to be decided.

The CJI, on being told that another bench headed Justice U U Lalit has been hearing a similar plea which has been fixed for further consideration on July 27, said he would take a call on posting of the matters and notify the date of hearing.

Attorney General KK Venugopal, who was asked to assist the bench in dealing with the case, defended the provision and said it be allowed to remain in the statute book and the court may lay down guidelines to curb the misuse.

Senior advocate Shyam Divan, appearing for the Editors Guild of India, said that a separate plea has been filed by the journalists' body challenging the validity of Section 124A (sedition) of the IPC and that plea can also be tagged along with the present one.

He said that besides challenging the validity, the Guild has also sought framing of guidelines to curb misuse.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-power-on-earth-can-restore-article-370-bjp-tells-mehbooba-mufti-337597">'No power on earth' can restore Article 370: BJP tells Mehbooba Mufti</a>

The bench was hearing the fresh plea by a former army officer, Major-General S G Vombatkere (Retd), challenging the Constitutional validity of Section 124 A (sedition) of the IPC on grounds that it causes a "chilling effect" on speech and is an unreasonable restriction on free expression, a fundamental right.

The bench, referring to the credentials of Vombatkere, said that he gave his entire life to the country and his motive in the filing of the case cannot be questioned.

The former Army officer challenged the constitutional validity of the sedition law on the ground that it causes a "chilling effect" on speech and is an unreasonable restriction on free expression, a fundamental right.

His plea said Section 124-A is wholly unconstitutional and should be "unequivocally and unambiguously struck down".

"The petitioner contends that a statute criminalising expression based on unconstitutionally vague definitions of 'disaffection towards Government' etc. Is an unreasonable restriction on the fundamental right to free expression guaranteed under Article 19(1)(a) and causes constitutionally impermissible 'Chilling Effect' on speech," the plea said.

The petition said there is a need to take into account the "march of the times and the development of the law" before dealing with Section 124-A.

Earlier, a separate bench had sought a response from the Centre on the plea challenging the validity of sedition law, filed by two journalists, Kishorechandra Wangkhemcha and Kanhaiya Lal Shukla, working in Manipur and Chhattisgarh respectively.&nbsp;

Concerned over the "enormous misuse" of the colonial era penal law on sedition, the Supreme Court on Thursday asked the Centre why it was not repealing the provision used by the British to 'silence' people like Mahatma Gandhi and to suppress the freedom movement.

Concerned over the "enormous misuse" of the colonial era penal law on sedition, the Supreme Court on Thursday asked the Centre why it was not repealing the provision used by the British to 'silence' people like Mahatma Gandhi and to suppress the freedom movement. Agreeing to examine the pleas filed by Editors Guild of India and a former major general, challenging the constitutionality of section 124A (sedition) in the IPC, a bench headed by Chief Justice N V Ramana said its main concern was the "misuse of law" and issued the notice to the Centre. Also read | BJP will make sedition law even more stringent: Rajnath Singh The non-bailable provision makes any speech or expression that "brings or attempts to bring into hatred or contempt or excites or attempts to excite disaffection towards the Government established by law in India" a criminal offence punishable with a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. "Mr Attorney (General), we want to ask some questions. This is the colonial-era law and the same law was used by the British to suppress the freedom movement. It was used by the British to silence Mahatma Gandhi, Gokhale and others." "Is it still necessary to keep this in statute even after 75 years of independence?", asked the bench which also comprised Justices A S Bopanna and Hrishikesh Roy. Observing that the provision on sedition has been put to "enormous misuse", it also referred to alarming misuse of Section 66 A of the Information Technology Act even after the top court set it aside long back and observed: "It can be compared to a carpenter, asked to cut wood, cut the entire forest." "A factionist can invoke these types of (penal) provisions to implicate the other group of people," the CJI said, adding that if a particular party or people do not want to hear a voice, they will use this law to implicate others. The bench wondered at the continuance of the sedition law in the statute book for the last 75 years and said: "We do not know why the government is not taking a decision. Your government has been getting rid of stale laws." Also read | Will make sedition law more stringent: Rajnath Singh The bench said that it was not blaming any state or government, but unfortunately, the executing agency misuses these laws and "there is no accountability" In a hearing, conducted through video-conferencing, the bench said that if a police officer in a remote village wanted to fix a person then he can easily do so by using such provisions. Moreover, said the bench, there was a very low percentage of convictions in sedition cases and these are the issues which are needed to be decided. The CJI, on being told that another bench headed Justice U U Lalit has been hearing a similar plea which has been fixed for further consideration on July 27, said he would take a call on posting of the matters and notify the date of hearing. Attorney General KK Venugopal, who was asked to assist the bench in dealing with the case, defended the provision and said it be allowed to remain in the statute book and the court may lay down guidelines to curb the misuse. Senior advocate Shyam Divan, appearing for the Editors Guild of India, said that a separate plea has been filed by the journalists' body challenging the validity of Section 124A (sedition) of the IPC and that plea can also be tagged along with the present one. He said that besides challenging the validity, the Guild has also sought framing of guidelines to curb misuse. Also read | 'No power on earth' can restore Article 370: BJP tells Mehbooba Mufti The bench was hearing the fresh plea by a former army officer, Major-General S G Vombatkere (Retd), challenging the Constitutional validity of Section 124 A (sedition) of the IPC on grounds that it causes a "chilling effect" on speech and is an unreasonable restriction on free expression, a fundamental right. The bench, referring to the credentials of Vombatkere, said that he gave his entire life to the country and his motive in the filing of the case cannot be questioned. The former Army officer challenged the constitutional validity of the sedition law on the ground that it causes a "chilling effect" on speech and is an unreasonable restriction on free expression, a fundamental right. His plea said Section 124-A is wholly unconstitutional and should be "unequivocally and unambiguously struck down". "The petitioner contends that a statute criminalising expression based on unconstitutionally vague definitions of 'disaffection towards Government' etc. Is an unreasonable restriction on the fundamental right to free expression guaranteed under Article 19(1)(a) and causes constitutionally impermissible 'Chilling Effect' on speech," the plea said. The petition said there is a need to take into account the "march of the times and the development of the law" before dealing with Section 124-A. Earlier, a separate bench had sought a response from the Centre on the plea challenging the validity of sedition law, filed by two journalists, Kishorechandra Wangkhemcha and Kanhaiya Lal Shukla, working in Manipur and Chhattisgarh respectively.

Why aren't you repealing British era sedition law used against Gandhi, SC asks Centre

Mahatma Gandhi's great-granddaughter has been sentenced to 7 years in prison in South Africa. Ashish Lata Ramgobin, 56, is guilty of fraud and forgery. What exactly did she do? WION's Palki Sharma brings you the details of the case.

Gravitas: Mahatma Gandhi's great-granddaughter sentenced to 7 years in jail

Mahatma Gandhi's descendants living in South Africa are in news nowadays after a Durban court sentenced his great-grand daughter Ashish Lata Ramgobin, renowned for her community work, to seven years in prison for her role in a six-million rand fraud and forgery case. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mahatma-gandhis-great-grand-daughter-jailed-for-7-years-in-a-fraud-case-390049">Also read | Mahatma Gandhi's great-granddaughter jailed for 7 years in a fraud case</a> 
 
Mahatma Gandhi lived in South Africa before heading the Indian freedom movement to oppose injustice and class divide.&nbsp;

In 1893, Mahatma Gandhi arrived in Durban on the ship&nbsp;SS Safari. Gandhi quickly rose to prominence as the leader of the South African Indian community. His participation in the nonviolent movement in South Africa had such an influence that he is still regarded as a leader there.&nbsp;

The Mahatma and Kasturba Gandhi had four children, all sons: Harilal, born in 1888; Manilal, born in 1892; Ramdas, born in 1897; and Devdas, born in 1900.

Manilal Mohandas Gandhi lived and worked in South Africa.

Mahatma Gandhi had established a place called 'The Phoenix Settlement', near Durban in 1904, where he established a commune, started his experiments with Satyagraha, and printed his newspaper Indian Opinion.

In 1917, Gandhi sent Manilal to South Africa to assist in the publication of Indian Opinion (established in 1903) and, in particular, the Gujarati section.

 
He was the magazine's longest-serving editor, and he did it without pay because his father&nbsp;urged that everything is done for the greater good, not personal gain.

Uma Dhupelia-Mesthrie, Manilal’s granddaughter, in her book ‘Gandhi’s Prisoner? The Life of Gandhi’s Son Manilal’ writes, “Phoenix and Manilal’s life would become intertwined in ways he could hardly imagine”. Therein, he undertook laborious tasks, worked on the land, spent time in the press assisting in the publication process, and tended to the elderly and sick.&nbsp;

In 1927, Manilal married Sushila Mashruwala, who later became his printing press partner. Sita, Arun, and Ela were their three children.&nbsp;

Ashish Lata Ramgobin is the daughter of Ela Gandhi.

Ela Gandhi is a known social activist in South Africa and was also a member of the South African Parliament.

Many members of the Mahatma Gandhi family, including Kirti Menon, the late Satish Dhupelia, Uma Dhupelia-Mesthrie, Ela Gandhi, and Lata Ramgobin herself, are human rights activists.

She was the founder and executive director of the International Centre for Non-Participative Violence's Development Initiative.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Mahatma Gandhi's descendants living in South Africa are in news nowadays after a Durban court sentenced his great-grand daughter Ashish Lata Ramgobin, renowned for her community work, to seven years in prison for her role in a six-million rand fraud and forgery case.

Mahatma Gandhi's descendants living in South Africa are in news nowadays after a Durban court sentenced his great-grand daughter Ashish Lata Ramgobin, renowned for her community work, to seven years in prison for her role in a six-million rand fraud and forgery case. Also read | Mahatma Gandhi's great-granddaughter jailed for 7 years in a fraud case Mahatma Gandhi lived in South Africa before heading the Indian freedom movement to oppose injustice and class divide. In 1893, Mahatma Gandhi arrived in Durban on the ship SS Safari. Gandhi quickly rose to prominence as the leader of the South African Indian community. His participation in the nonviolent movement in South Africa had such an influence that he is still regarded as a leader there. The Mahatma and Kasturba Gandhi had four children, all sons: Harilal, born in 1888; Manilal, born in 1892; Ramdas, born in 1897; and Devdas, born in 1900. Manilal Mohandas Gandhi lived and worked in South Africa. Mahatma Gandhi had established a place called 'The Phoenix Settlement', near Durban in 1904, where he established a commune, started his experiments with Satyagraha, and printed his newspaper Indian Opinion. In 1917, Gandhi sent Manilal to South Africa to assist in the publication of Indian Opinion (established in 1903) and, in particular, the Gujarati section. He was the magazine's longest-serving editor, and he did it without pay because his father urged that everything is done for the greater good, not personal gain. Uma Dhupelia-Mesthrie, Manilal’s granddaughter, in her book ‘Gandhi’s Prisoner? The Life of Gandhi’s Son Manilal’ writes, “Phoenix and Manilal’s life would become intertwined in ways he could hardly imagine”. Therein, he undertook laborious tasks, worked on the land, spent time in the press assisting in the publication process, and tended to the elderly and sick. In 1927, Manilal married Sushila Mashruwala, who later became his printing press partner. Sita, Arun, and Ela were their three children. Ashish Lata Ramgobin is the daughter of Ela Gandhi. Ela Gandhi is a known social activist in South Africa and was also a member of the South African Parliament. Many members of the Mahatma Gandhi family, including Kirti Menon, the late Satish Dhupelia, Uma Dhupelia-Mesthrie, Ela Gandhi, and Lata Ramgobin herself, are human rights activists. She was the founder and executive director of the International Centre for Non-Participative Violence's Development Initiative. (With inputs from agencies)

Mahatma Gandhi's South African family: The rich legacy that India forgot

A South African court in Durban sentenced Mahatma Gandhi's great-granddaughter, renowned for her community work, to seven years in prison for her role in a six-million rand fraud and forgery case. On Monday, the court found Ashish Lata Ramgobin guilty. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mahatma-gandhis-great-grand-daughter-jailed-for-7-years-in-a-fraud-case-390049">Also read | Mahatma Gandhi's South African family: The rich legacy that India forgot&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</a> 
 
56-year-old Ashish Lata Ramgobin was charged with scamming businessman SR Maharaj after he loaned her R6.2 million for allegedly clearing import and Customs duties on a non-existent package from India. He was guaranteed a part of the profits.

Ramgobin is the daughter of renowned human rights activist Ela Gandhi and Mewa Ramgobind, who have both played instrumental roles in reviving the Phoenix Settlement established by Mahatma Gandhi during his tenure in South Africa.

Brigadier Hangwani Mulaudzi of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) said when the trial against Lata Ramgobin began in 2015 that she allegedly presented false invoices and documentation to convince potential investors that three containers of linen were being carried in from India.

"She said she was experiencing financial difficulties to pay for import costs and customs and she needed the money to clear the goods at the harbour,” NPA spokesperson Natasha Kara said on Monday.

"She advised him (Maharaj) that she needed R6.2 million. To convince him, she showed him what she claimed was a signed purchase order for the goods. Later that month, she sent him what seemed to be a NetCare invoice and delivery note as proof that the goods were delivered and payment was imminent," she said.

A founder and Executive Director of the Participative Development Initiative at the NGO International Centre for Non-Violence, Ramgobin described herself as "an activist with a focus on environmental, societal and political interests."

Several other South African descendants of Mahatma Gandhi have gained prominence for their efforts in human rights activism over many years, among them Kirti Menon, Satish Dhupelia, and Uma Dhupelia-Mesthrie.

Ela Gandhi in particular has been internationally awarded for her efforts, including national honours from India.

(With inputs from agencies)

A South African court in Durban sentenced Mahatma Gandhi's great-granddaughter, renowned for her community work, to seven years in prison for her role in a six-million rand fraud and forgery case.

A South African court in Durban sentenced Mahatma Gandhi's great-granddaughter, renowned for her community work, to seven years in prison for her role in a six-million rand fraud and forgery case. On Monday, the court found Ashish Lata Ramgobin guilty. Also read | Mahatma Gandhi's South African family: The rich legacy that India forgot 56-year-old Ashish Lata Ramgobin was charged with scamming businessman SR Maharaj after he loaned her R6.2 million for allegedly clearing import and Customs duties on a non-existent package from India. He was guaranteed a part of the profits. Ramgobin is the daughter of renowned human rights activist Ela Gandhi and Mewa Ramgobind, who have both played instrumental roles in reviving the Phoenix Settlement established by Mahatma Gandhi during his tenure in South Africa. Brigadier Hangwani Mulaudzi of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) said when the trial against Lata Ramgobin began in 2015 that she allegedly presented false invoices and documentation to convince potential investors that three containers of linen were being carried in from India. "She said she was experiencing financial difficulties to pay for import costs and customs and she needed the money to clear the goods at the harbour,” NPA spokesperson Natasha Kara said on Monday. "She advised him (Maharaj) that she needed R6.2 million. To convince him, she showed him what she claimed was a signed purchase order for the goods. Later that month, she sent him what seemed to be a NetCare invoice and delivery note as proof that the goods were delivered and payment was imminent," she said. A founder and Executive Director of the Participative Development Initiative at the NGO International Centre for Non-Violence, Ramgobin described herself as "an activist with a focus on environmental, societal and political interests." Several other South African descendants of Mahatma Gandhi have gained prominence for their efforts in human rights activism over many years, among them Kirti Menon, Satish Dhupelia, and Uma Dhupelia-Mesthrie. Ela Gandhi in particular has been internationally awarded for her efforts, including national honours from India. (With inputs from agencies)

Mahatma Gandhi's great-grand daughter jailed for 7 years in a fraud case

March 12 in history: From Gandhi's salt march to Hitler's invasion of Austria

After Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the increasing participation of women in every field in the country during his monthly radio programme `Mann Ki Baat,` actor Deepika Padukone expressed happiness towards the Prime Minister`s words.

The `Chhapaak` actor shared a tweet by the Prime Minister in which he had posted some snippets from his radio programme that was aired on Sunday. Sharing the tweet, Deepika penned down a powerful quote about bringing a change in the world, by the Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi and dedicated those words to the "incredible women" around the world.

"Be the change you wish to see in the world."-Mahatma Gandhi These words couldn`t be truer for these incredible women and for every single woman around the world! #NariShakti #MannKiBaat@PMOIndia," she wrote as she shared the tweet by the Prime Minister.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
“Be the change you wish to see in the world.”-Mahatma Gandhi 
 
These words couldn’t be truer for these incredible women and for every single woman around the world!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NariShakti?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NariShakti</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MannKiBaat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MannKiBaat</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/DPYzBXNfYt">https://t.co/DPYzBXNfYt</a>
— Deepika Padukone (@deepikapadukone) <a href="https://twitter.com/deepikapadukone/status/1355935465115889674?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 31, 2021</a></blockquote>
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PM Modi addressed the 73rd episode of the `Mann ki Baat` programme and the first episode of the year 2021 on Sunday. Hailing various departments and discussing many important events in the country, the Prime Minister also underlined the increasing participation of the country`s women in different fields.

The Prime Minister accentuated the historic move where Air India`s longest direct route flight with the all-women pilot team on January 11 landed at Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru from San Francisco, flying over the North Pole and covering a distance of about 16,000 kilometres.

Two IAF women officers became the first women pilots to participate in the Republic Day parade. India`s one of the first three women fighter pilots, Flight Lieutenant Bhawana Kanth, became the first woman fighter pilot to be part of the Indian Air Force contingent at the Republic Day parade.

Flight Lieutenant Swati Rathore became the first woman to be part of the flypast over Rajpath as she flew a Mi-17 V5 helicopter in a formation of four choppers.&nbsp;

After Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the increasing participation of women in every field in the country during his monthly radio programme `Mann Ki Baat,` actor Deepika Padukone expressed happiness towards the Prime Minister`s words.

After Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the increasing participation of women in every field in the country during his monthly radio programme `Mann Ki Baat,` actor Deepika Padukone expressed happiness towards the Prime Minister`s words. The `Chhapaak` actor shared a tweet by the Prime Minister in which he had posted some snippets from his radio programme that was aired on Sunday. Sharing the tweet, Deepika penned down a powerful quote about bringing a change in the world, by the Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi and dedicated those words to the "incredible women" around the world. "Be the change you wish to see in the world."-Mahatma Gandhi These words couldn`t be truer for these incredible women and for every single woman around the world! #NariShakti #MannKiBaat@PMOIndia," she wrote as she shared the tweet by the Prime Minister. “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”-Mahatma Gandhi These words couldn’t be truer for these incredible women and for every single woman around the world!#NariShakti #MannKiBaat @PMOIndia https://t.co/DPYzBXNfYt — Deepika Padukone (@deepikapadukone) January 31, 2021 × PM Modi addressed the 73rd episode of the `Mann ki Baat` programme and the first episode of the year 2021 on Sunday. Hailing various departments and discussing many important events in the country, the Prime Minister also underlined the increasing participation of the country`s women in different fields. The Prime Minister accentuated the historic move where Air India`s longest direct route flight with the all-women pilot team on January 11 landed at Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru from San Francisco, flying over the North Pole and covering a distance of about 16,000 kilometres. Two IAF women officers became the first women pilots to participate in the Republic Day parade. India`s one of the first three women fighter pilots, Flight Lieutenant Bhawana Kanth, became the first woman fighter pilot to be part of the Indian Air Force contingent at the Republic Day parade. Flight Lieutenant Swati Rathore became the first woman to be part of the flypast over Rajpath as she flew a Mi-17 V5 helicopter in a formation of four choppers.

Deepika Padukone quotes Mahatma Gandhi hailing PM Modi's 'Mann Ki Baat'

The nation on Saturday remembered Mahatma Gandhi on his 73rd death anniversary with President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi leading the country in paying homage to the Father of the Nation.

President Kovind, Vice President Naidu, Prime Minister Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, among others, also paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat in Delhi.

Gandhi was shot dead on October 30&nbsp;in 1948 by Nathuram Godse. His death anniversary is observed as Martyrs' Day.

Paying tributes to Mahatma Gandhi, Kovind said people should adhere to his ideals of peace, non-violence, simplicity, purity of means, and humility.

"On behalf of a grateful nation, my humble tributes to the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi who embraced martyrdom this day. We should adhere to his ideals of peace, non-violence, simplicity, purity of means and humility. Let us resolve to follow his path of truth and love," he tweeted.

On Twitter, Naidu shared a quote of Mahatma Gandhi - "Ahimsa is the highest duty. Even if we cannot practice it in full, we must try to understand its spirit and refrain as far as is humanly possible from violence."

"Gandhiji was a crusader of peace, non-violence &amp; selfless service. Both, through his words and actions, he left an indelible imprint on the sands of time. He inspired countless people worldwide to follow the path of ahimsa," Naidu said.

"Mahatma Gandhi worked relentlessly for the uplift of the vulnerable sections, downtrodden and socially backward. Gandhiji's glorious life and principles continue to inspire the entire world. As we remember him, let us emulate his teachings and resolve to follow the path shown by him," he said in another tweet.

Paying homage to Mahatma Gandhi, Modi said his ideals continue to motivate millions.

"Tributes to the great Bapu on his Punya Tithi. His ideals continue to motivate millions. On Martyrs' Day we recall the heroic sacrifices of all those great women and men who devoted themselves towards India's freedom and the well-being of every Indian," he said in a tweet.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi, saying his principles of truth and non-violence are still relevant through which any struggle for rights can be won.

"Truth, non-violence, patience, bravery and 'Satyagrah'. These principles of Gandhiji that rendered ineffective bigger powers are relevant even today, through which any struggle for rights can be won," he tweeted in Hindi.

In his tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on Twitter, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi shared a quote of the Father of the Nation - "Truth stands, even if there be no public support. It is self-sustained".

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi, remembering that he had said the "ruler who defies public opinion is cruel and any unjust law is a form of violence in itself".

"Gandhiji was killed with the purpose of killing his ideas. But Gandhiji's 'Satyagraha' is the strength of the whole country and it is our responsibility," she tweeted in Hindi. 
CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury said, "We must never forget the forces that assassinated the Father or the Nation - Mahatma Gandhi. The ideology of hate and fratricide that killed him will never be allowed to succeed."

"Its inheritors will be fought and pushed back," he said.

The nation on Saturday remembered Mahatma Gandhi on his 73rd death anniversary with President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi leading the country in paying homage to the Father of the Nation.

The nation on Saturday remembered Mahatma Gandhi on his 73rd death anniversary with President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi leading the country in paying homage to the Father of the Nation. President Kovind, Vice President Naidu, Prime Minister Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, among others, also paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat in Delhi. Gandhi was shot dead on October 30 in 1948 by Nathuram Godse. His death anniversary is observed as Martyrs' Day. Paying tributes to Mahatma Gandhi, Kovind said people should adhere to his ideals of peace, non-violence, simplicity, purity of means, and humility. "On behalf of a grateful nation, my humble tributes to the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi who embraced martyrdom this day. We should adhere to his ideals of peace, non-violence, simplicity, purity of means and humility. Let us resolve to follow his path of truth and love," he tweeted. On Twitter, Naidu shared a quote of Mahatma Gandhi - "Ahimsa is the highest duty. Even if we cannot practice it in full, we must try to understand its spirit and refrain as far as is humanly possible from violence." "Gandhiji was a crusader of peace, non-violence & selfless service. Both, through his words and actions, he left an indelible imprint on the sands of time. He inspired countless people worldwide to follow the path of ahimsa," Naidu said. "Mahatma Gandhi worked relentlessly for the uplift of the vulnerable sections, downtrodden and socially backward. Gandhiji's glorious life and principles continue to inspire the entire world. As we remember him, let us emulate his teachings and resolve to follow the path shown by him," he said in another tweet. Paying homage to Mahatma Gandhi, Modi said his ideals continue to motivate millions. "Tributes to the great Bapu on his Punya Tithi. His ideals continue to motivate millions. On Martyrs' Day we recall the heroic sacrifices of all those great women and men who devoted themselves towards India's freedom and the well-being of every Indian," he said in a tweet. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi, saying his principles of truth and non-violence are still relevant through which any struggle for rights can be won. "Truth, non-violence, patience, bravery and 'Satyagrah'. These principles of Gandhiji that rendered ineffective bigger powers are relevant even today, through which any struggle for rights can be won," he tweeted in Hindi. In his tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on Twitter, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi shared a quote of the Father of the Nation - "Truth stands, even if there be no public support. It is self-sustained". Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi, remembering that he had said the "ruler who defies public opinion is cruel and any unjust law is a form of violence in itself". "Gandhiji was killed with the purpose of killing his ideas. But Gandhiji's 'Satyagraha' is the strength of the whole country and it is our responsibility," she tweeted in Hindi. CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury said, "We must never forget the forces that assassinated the Father or the Nation - Mahatma Gandhi. The ideology of hate and fratricide that killed him will never be allowed to succeed." "Its inheritors will be fought and pushed back," he said.

PM pays tributes to Mahatma Gandhi on death anniversary

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