Themed "Gandhi's Idea of India: Truth, Harmony, Non-Violence", the 6th edition of Kalinga Literary Festival (KLF) will open gates for bibliophiles in Bhubaneswar, the temple city of Odisha, starting July 19. 
 
The three-day event, to be attended by over 250 celebrities, will witness speakers deliberating on Gandhi's works and ideas through literature, lived experiences, politics, arts and films.&nbsp; 
 
The KLF is well known for its socially relevant themes and in a way compels all creative people to think and articulate the contemporary.&nbsp; 
 
Like its past editions the KLF this year also has a hard-hitting theme for writers, poets and artists to ponder on. 
 
"The central theme focuses on Gandhian Ideology. Several sessions on different themes will connect to the central theme on Gandhi's Idea of India," the organisers said. 
 
The event will witness sessions and discussions by the likes of Namita Gokhale, Anand Neelakantan, Anu Chaudhary, Rashmi Bansal, Yashwant Sinha and Swanad Kirkire, among others from varying fields of interest. 
 
The key sessions at the literary festival will be on topics including cultural nationalism, Gandhigiri, generation Y, Odisha, media, market, cinema, and sports.&nbsp; 
 
"This year the world is celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. It is only fitting to pay tribute to him, his ideas and reflect upon them in contemporary times. KLF 2019 will pay literary and creative tribute to the immortal spirit of Gandhi ji," Rashmi Ranjan Parida, founder director of KLF, said. 
 
Four awards in literature -- a distinguished writer in Odia, a woman writer, a writer in any global language and a young writer in any global language -- will be conferred during the event.&nbsp; 
 
Also, more than 20 new books and monographs will be released during the three-day festival, the organisers said 
 
A dedicated platform, Kalinga Art Festival, will provide a unique platform for artists to showcase their talent and connect their art to the central theme of the festival. 
 
Apart from the literary discussions, the festival will also witness cultural programs to showcase Odisha's art, culture and literature. 
&nbsp; 
Storytelling session 'Dastan-E-Mantoiyat' by Syed Shadab Hussain and Meera Rizvi, screening of Oscar-nominated director Ashvin Kumar's 'No Fathers in Kashmir' will be the star attraction of the festival, they said.&nbsp; 
 
The festival will come to an end on July 21.&nbsp;

Themed "Gandhi's Idea of India: Truth, Harmony, Non-Violence", the 6th edition of Kalinga Literary Festival (KLF) will open gates for bibliophiles in Bhubaneswar, the temple city of Odisha, starting July 19.

Themed "Gandhi's Idea of India: Truth, Harmony, Non-Violence", the 6th edition of Kalinga Literary Festival (KLF) will open gates for bibliophiles in Bhubaneswar, the temple city of Odisha, starting July 19. The three-day event, to be attended by over 250 celebrities, will witness speakers deliberating on Gandhi's works and ideas through literature, lived experiences, politics, arts and films. The KLF is well known for its socially relevant themes and in a way compels all creative people to think and articulate the contemporary. Like its past editions the KLF this year also has a hard-hitting theme for writers, poets and artists to ponder on. "The central theme focuses on Gandhian Ideology. Several sessions on different themes will connect to the central theme on Gandhi's Idea of India," the organisers said. The event will witness sessions and discussions by the likes of Namita Gokhale, Anand Neelakantan, Anu Chaudhary, Rashmi Bansal, Yashwant Sinha and Swanad Kirkire, among others from varying fields of interest. The key sessions at the literary festival will be on topics including cultural nationalism, Gandhigiri, generation Y, Odisha, media, market, cinema, and sports. "This year the world is celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. It is only fitting to pay tribute to him, his ideas and reflect upon them in contemporary times. KLF 2019 will pay literary and creative tribute to the immortal spirit of Gandhi ji," Rashmi Ranjan Parida, founder director of KLF, said. Four awards in literature -- a distinguished writer in Odia, a woman writer, a writer in any global language and a young writer in any global language -- will be conferred during the event. Also, more than 20 new books and monographs will be released during the three-day festival, the organisers said A dedicated platform, Kalinga Art Festival, will provide a unique platform for artists to showcase their talent and connect their art to the central theme of the festival. Apart from the literary discussions, the festival will also witness cultural programs to showcase Odisha's art, culture and literature. Storytelling session 'Dastan-E-Mantoiyat' by Syed Shadab Hussain and Meera Rizvi, screening of Oscar-nominated director Ashvin Kumar's 'No Fathers in Kashmir' will be the star attraction of the festival, they said. The festival will come to an end on July 21.

Kalinga Literary Festival to pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi

Travellers visiting this north Bihar town to catch glimpses of historical spots, such as writer George Orwell's place of birth or places associated with Mahatma Gandhi's first civil disobedience movement on the Indian soil, may now have an added attraction.

A B.Ed. college situated in the town serving as the district headquarters for East Champaran district has showcased, inside its premises, nearly a score of mementoes received by Prime Minister Narendra Modi which went under the hammer earlier this year.

Among the mementoes on display here is a cutout of the map of India, gifted by Bardoli MP Parbhubhai Vasava on which one finds a photograph of PM Modi along with depictions of his endeavours such as the Swachh Bharat Yojana, the Ujjwala scheme and the Start-Up India initiative.

Another notable exhibit is a memento, designed like a Buddhist Stupa, which was presented to the prime minister by the Maharashtra government upon commencement of construction of a memorial of B R Ambedkar.

"It is a matter of pride for us that we happen to be the only ones in Bihar to have won some of the over 1,000 mementoes in the auction.

"The funds thus generated were meant to be diverted for the Namami Gange project which would, again, be of benefit of our state since the holy river flows here," says Yamuna Sekaria who heads the 'Radha Krishna Seva Sansthan', the name by which the college is better known.

The son of Shambhu Nath Sekaria, a well-known social and environmental activist from Motihari, Yamuna Sekaria calls himself an ardent admirer of Modi, greatly impressed by his tireless energy and his passion to serve the nation.

Sekaria, however, declines to divulge the prices at which the items were sold at the auction, saying, all the participants had been requested to keep it a secret, since "it was not a sell-off meant for commercial purposes".

PM Modi had visited the town in April last year when he inaugurated a railway station named 'Bapudham' highlighting the town's association with the Champaran Satyagraha, which Mahatma Gandhi had launched for oppressed indigo planters.

A certificate of appreciation issued by the National Gallery of Modern Arts issued to those who had spent their time and efforts in participating in the auction of the prime minister's mementoes is also proudly displayed at the college.&nbsp;

Travellers visiting this north Bihar town to catch glimpses of historical spots, such as writer George Orwell's place of birth or places associated with Mahatma Gandhi's first civil disobedience movement on the Indian soil, may now have an added attraction.

Travellers visiting this north Bihar town to catch glimpses of historical spots, such as writer George Orwell's place of birth or places associated with Mahatma Gandhi's first civil disobedience movement on the Indian soil, may now have an added attraction. A B.Ed. college situated in the town serving as the district headquarters for East Champaran district has showcased, inside its premises, nearly a score of mementoes received by Prime Minister Narendra Modi which went under the hammer earlier this year. Among the mementoes on display here is a cutout of the map of India, gifted by Bardoli MP Parbhubhai Vasava on which one finds a photograph of PM Modi along with depictions of his endeavours such as the Swachh Bharat Yojana, the Ujjwala scheme and the Start-Up India initiative. Another notable exhibit is a memento, designed like a Buddhist Stupa, which was presented to the prime minister by the Maharashtra government upon commencement of construction of a memorial of B R Ambedkar. "It is a matter of pride for us that we happen to be the only ones in Bihar to have won some of the over 1,000 mementoes in the auction. "The funds thus generated were meant to be diverted for the Namami Gange project which would, again, be of benefit of our state since the holy river flows here," says Yamuna Sekaria who heads the 'Radha Krishna Seva Sansthan', the name by which the college is better known. The son of Shambhu Nath Sekaria, a well-known social and environmental activist from Motihari, Yamuna Sekaria calls himself an ardent admirer of Modi, greatly impressed by his tireless energy and his passion to serve the nation. Sekaria, however, declines to divulge the prices at which the items were sold at the auction, saying, all the participants had been requested to keep it a secret, since "it was not a sell-off meant for commercial purposes". PM Modi had visited the town in April last year when he inaugurated a railway station named 'Bapudham' highlighting the town's association with the Champaran Satyagraha, which Mahatma Gandhi had launched for oppressed indigo planters. A certificate of appreciation issued by the National Gallery of Modern Arts issued to those who had spent their time and efforts in participating in the auction of the prime minister's mementoes is also proudly displayed at the college.

Mementos received by PM Modi put on display at Bihar town

Few other public figures have inspired artistic imaginations as sustainably as Mahatma Gandhi had done. Here was a man who hardly watched films, rarely attended a concert of classical music and demonstrated no great interest in Western-style modernism in the visual and performing art forms.&nbsp;

To understand Gandhi’s psyche, therefore, one has to visit his ideas on the arts, literature and their creators.

On December 10, 1931, he told Romain Rolland: “I am against the formula of ‘art for art’s sake’. For me, all art must be based on truth.” Seven years later, he said, “We have somehow accustomed ourselves to the belief that art is independent of the purity of private life… I can say that purity of life is the highest and truest art. The art of producing good music from a cultivated voice can be achieved by many, but the art of producing that music from the harmony of a pure life is achieved very rarely.”

Beauty, to Gandhi, emanates from truth and purity of life. “Truth is the first thing to be sought for, and beauty and goodness will then be added unto you…” His love and appreciation for the works of Tolstoy, Ruskin, Thoreau, Tagore and for the painting and artwork of Nandalal Bose as well as the musical renditions by M S Subbulakshmi, Juthika Roy and Pandit Omkarnath Thakur should perhaps be seen in this context.&nbsp;

While Gandhi was steadfast in his ideas, he was not unaware of his own limitations. About Nandalal Bose of Santiniketan, he commented, “For, he is a creative artist and I am none. God has given me the sense of art, but not the organs to give it a concrete shape. He has blessed Nandalal Babu with both”’ On another occasion, “I am not an art student… I do not write or speak about it because I am conscious of my limitations. My functions are different from the artist’s and I should not go out of my way to assume his position.” He used the services of Bose for the Congress sessions and exhibitions and was all praise of his artistic genius.

About Oscar Wilde, his comment, “Wilde saw the highest art simply in outward forms and, therefore, succeeded in beautifying immorality…” may appear dated and puritanical in the context of today’s sensibilities, but Gandhi hits the nail when he says, “On the other hand, truth may manifest itself in forms which may not be outwardly beautiful. Socrates, we are told, was the most truthful man of his time and yet his features are said to have been the ugliest in Greece. To my mind, he was beautiful because all his life he was striving for truth…”

Gandhi read and wrote extensively, and travelled incessantly. He was self-luminous, experimenting continuously with himself, and was so immersed in the ‘real’ issues of life, that he hardly had time or perhaps even the inclination to be enriched by ‘fiction’. His once observed, in the context of Gujarati literature, “The less we revel in the realm of the fiction, the better for us.”

His aversion to the cinema and his refusal to see any good in it stemmed from his understanding that cinema, of dance and music, is primarily for amusement and exerts a malefic influence on society.&nbsp;

He was persuaded to meet Charlie Chaplin, impressed him a great deal, but never showed any interest in his work. Late in his life (1943-44), he condescended to watch two movies, Vijay Bhatt’s Ram Rajya and Curtiz’s Mission to Moscow. He apparently did not comment on either.&nbsp;

During his lifetime, many socially relevant films were made on issues dear to him, but he refused to see much merit in cinematic art. Gandhi’s attitude to the theatre was also almost similar.&nbsp;

He was more interested in music, but of a special variety. Invited to a performance by the great Ustad Abdul Karim Khan at the residence of Dilip Kumar Roy, Gandhi reportedly started collecting subscription for Congress party in between.&nbsp;

On Gandhi’s request, Gauhar Jaan performed for a charity show, but Gandhi eventually shied away from attending the function himself. He may not have had an interest in the subtleties of pure classical music, but he used to enjoy bhajans. Subbulakshmi’s rendition of a Dikshitar Kirti Mamava Pattabhirama…was deeply appreciated. Post-independence, Gandhi wanted her to sing and record Hari Tum Haro… and reportedly said that he would rather have her speak the bhajan than have anyone else sing it!&nbsp;

Gandhi also liked the devotional songs by Juthika Roy whose records used to be played before his prayer meetings. Vishnu Digambar Paluskar composed the music for Gandhi’s favourite Raghupati Raghava…About Omkarnath Thakur, Gandhi is believed to have said: “Pandit Omkarnathji can achieve through a single song of his what I can achieve through several speeches.”

He was also fond of the singing of Dilip Kumar Roy and named his protégé Uma Basu as the ‘Nightingale of Bengal’. No wonder he admitted that he would have died of the crushing burden of work “if there was no music and no laughter in me.”

Gandhi read Tagore in translation since his yearning to learn Bangla had to wait till the last days of his life. His favourite song ‘If no one responds to your call, walk alone, walk alone’ used to be sung during Gandhi’s days at Noakhali. After the Poona Pact was signed, Gandhi’s fast was broken with Tagore himself singing ‘When the heart is hard and parched up, come upon me with a shower of mercy’.&nbsp;

He was often criticised, misunderstood and not considered a connoisseur of the arts, but he continued pursuing his own goals. This may be reflective of an orthodox attitude that almost borders on the spiritual, not in sync with the prevalent western mores, but Gandhi’s approach in this regard has not been inconsistent with his philosophy of life. 
 
(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-little-known-side-of-mahatma-2761238">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Few other public figures have inspired artistic imaginations as sustainably as Mahatma Gandhi had done. Here was a man who hardly watched films, rarely attended a concert of classical music and demonstrated no great interest in Western-style modernism in the visual and performing art forms.

Few other public figures have inspired artistic imaginations as sustainably as Mahatma Gandhi had done. Here was a man who hardly watched films, rarely attended a concert of classical music and demonstrated no great interest in Western-style modernism in the visual and performing art forms. To understand Gandhi’s psyche, therefore, one has to visit his ideas on the arts, literature and their creators. On December 10, 1931, he told Romain Rolland: “I am against the formula of ‘art for art’s sake’. For me, all art must be based on truth.” Seven years later, he said, “We have somehow accustomed ourselves to the belief that art is independent of the purity of private life… I can say that purity of life is the highest and truest art. The art of producing good music from a cultivated voice can be achieved by many, but the art of producing that music from the harmony of a pure life is achieved very rarely.” Beauty, to Gandhi, emanates from truth and purity of life. “Truth is the first thing to be sought for, and beauty and goodness will then be added unto you…” His love and appreciation for the works of Tolstoy, Ruskin, Thoreau, Tagore and for the painting and artwork of Nandalal Bose as well as the musical renditions by M S Subbulakshmi, Juthika Roy and Pandit Omkarnath Thakur should perhaps be seen in this context. While Gandhi was steadfast in his ideas, he was not unaware of his own limitations. About Nandalal Bose of Santiniketan, he commented, “For, he is a creative artist and I am none. God has given me the sense of art, but not the organs to give it a concrete shape. He has blessed Nandalal Babu with both”’ On another occasion, “I am not an art student… I do not write or speak about it because I am conscious of my limitations. My functions are different from the artist’s and I should not go out of my way to assume his position.” He used the services of Bose for the Congress sessions and exhibitions and was all praise of his artistic genius. About Oscar Wilde, his comment, “Wilde saw the highest art simply in outward forms and, therefore, succeeded in beautifying immorality…” may appear dated and puritanical in the context of today’s sensibilities, but Gandhi hits the nail when he says, “On the other hand, truth may manifest itself in forms which may not be outwardly beautiful. Socrates, we are told, was the most truthful man of his time and yet his features are said to have been the ugliest in Greece. To my mind, he was beautiful because all his life he was striving for truth…” Gandhi read and wrote extensively, and travelled incessantly. He was self-luminous, experimenting continuously with himself, and was so immersed in the ‘real’ issues of life, that he hardly had time or perhaps even the inclination to be enriched by ‘fiction’. His once observed, in the context of Gujarati literature, “The less we revel in the realm of the fiction, the better for us.” His aversion to the cinema and his refusal to see any good in it stemmed from his understanding that cinema, of dance and music, is primarily for amusement and exerts a malefic influence on society. He was persuaded to meet Charlie Chaplin, impressed him a great deal, but never showed any interest in his work. Late in his life (1943-44), he condescended to watch two movies, Vijay Bhatt’s Ram Rajya and Curtiz’s Mission to Moscow. He apparently did not comment on either. During his lifetime, many socially relevant films were made on issues dear to him, but he refused to see much merit in cinematic art. Gandhi’s attitude to the theatre was also almost similar. He was more interested in music, but of a special variety. Invited to a performance by the great Ustad Abdul Karim Khan at the residence of Dilip Kumar Roy, Gandhi reportedly started collecting subscription for Congress party in between. On Gandhi’s request, Gauhar Jaan performed for a charity show, but Gandhi eventually shied away from attending the function himself. He may not have had an interest in the subtleties of pure classical music, but he used to enjoy bhajans. Subbulakshmi’s rendition of a Dikshitar Kirti Mamava Pattabhirama…was deeply appreciated. Post-independence, Gandhi wanted her to sing and record Hari Tum Haro… and reportedly said that he would rather have her speak the bhajan than have anyone else sing it! Gandhi also liked the devotional songs by Juthika Roy whose records used to be played before his prayer meetings. Vishnu Digambar Paluskar composed the music for Gandhi’s favourite Raghupati Raghava…About Omkarnath Thakur, Gandhi is believed to have said: “Pandit Omkarnathji can achieve through a single song of his what I can achieve through several speeches.” He was also fond of the singing of Dilip Kumar Roy and named his protégé Uma Basu as the ‘Nightingale of Bengal’. No wonder he admitted that he would have died of the crushing burden of work “if there was no music and no laughter in me.” Gandhi read Tagore in translation since his yearning to learn Bangla had to wait till the last days of his life. His favourite song ‘If no one responds to your call, walk alone, walk alone’ used to be sung during Gandhi’s days at Noakhali. After the Poona Pact was signed, Gandhi’s fast was broken with Tagore himself singing ‘When the heart is hard and parched up, come upon me with a shower of mercy’. He was often criticised, misunderstood and not considered a connoisseur of the arts, but he continued pursuing his own goals. This may be reflective of an orthodox attitude that almost borders on the spiritual, not in sync with the prevalent western mores, but Gandhi’s approach in this regard has not been inconsistent with his philosophy of life. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Blog: Little known side of Mahatma Gandhi

Families of slain BJP workers reaches New Delhi arrives at New Delhi for Modi’s swearing-in. Watch this video to know more.

Families of slain BJP workers reaches New Delhi

According to sources, PM-elect Narendra Modi will meet Cabinet ministers at 4:30 pm today ahead of swearing-in. Watch this video to know more.

PM-elect Modi to meet Cabinet ministers at 4:30 pm

Myanmar President Win Myint arrives at New Delhi to attend Modi’s swearing-in. Watch this video to know more.

LIVE: Myanmar President Win Myint arrives at New Delhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to take the oath of Office of Prime Minister today along with his Council of ministers today at 7 pm. Watch this video to know more.

BJP president Amit Shah meets PM-elect Modi

In the biggest-ever event held in the Rashtrapati Bhavan, the swearing-in of Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be attended by nearly 8,000 guests, including foreign dignitaries and chief ministers and governors. A tight and multi-layered security arrangement has been made in the national capital with the deployment of around 10,000 security personnel from Delhi Police and paramilitary forces. Watch this video to know more.

Rashtrapati Bhavan gears up for Modi's swearing-in ceremony

All Shiv Sena leaders to attend PM Modi's swearing-in ceremony. Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is set to take the oath of Office of Prime Minister today along with his Council of ministers paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and the National War Memorial. Watch this video to know more.

All Shiv Sena leaders to attend Modi's swearing-in ceremony

Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is set to take the oath of Office of Prime Minister today along with his Council of ministers paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and the National War Memorial. Watch this video to know more.

PM Narendra Modi pays tribute at the National War Memorial

Prime Minister Narendra Modi pays respect to Mahatma Gandhi, Atal Bihari Vajpayee ahead of his swearing-in ceremony today at 7 pm. PM Modi will take oath for the second consecutive term at Rashtrapati Bhawan. Watch this video to know more.

PM Narendra Modi pays respect to Mahatma Gandhi

Reportedly, around 8,000 guests will attend the swearing-in of Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Rashtrapati Bhavan today. Watch this video to know more.

Overseas diaspora says 'NaMo'

Leaders from Bimstec countries yesterday confirmed their participation at the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 30 evening.

WION Exclusive: In conversation with BJP's foreign affairs in-charge

Leaders from Bimstec countries yesterday confirmed their participation at the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 30 evening. In this video know why invite to BIMSTEC leaders is Important?

Why invite to BIMSTEC leaders is Important?

PM-elect Narendra Modi is set to take oath with his new cabinet of ministers on Thursday evening at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. Ahead of his swearing-in, Modi visited Raj Ghat, Mahatma Gandhi`s memorial. Watch this video to know more.

Reports: Names of ministers in Modi's new Cabinet is out

Y S Jaganmohan Reddy took oath as CM of Andhra Pradesh in Vijayawada. He was administered the oath of office by Governor E S L Narasimhan. Watch this video to know more.

Jagan Mohan Reddy sworn in as Andhra Pradesh CM

The <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/reserve-bank-of-india-sells-entire-stake-in-national-housing-bank-nabard-to-govt-for-rs-1470-cr-213344&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiW_vSLtu_hAhVEPI8KHd4xDdkQFjABegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0NJPzoSw6w8AIY5EPzqTTO">Reserve Bank of India</a> (RBI) has announced that it will shortly issue Rs 20 denomination banknotes, in the Mahatma Gandhi (New) series, bearing the signature of the central bank`s governor Shaktikanta Das.

"The Rs 20 note will be greenish-yellow in colour. The new banknote has a motif of Ellora Caves on the reverse, depicting the country`s cultural heritage," a statement by the RBI said.

All the banknotes in the denomination of Rs 20 issued by the RBI in the earlier series will continue to be legal tender, it clarified.

The note has other designs, geometric patterns aligning with the overall colour scheme, both at the obverse and reverse.

The dimension of the new Rs 20 note will be 63 mm x 129 mm, the statement said. The obverse (front) side of the note contains a see-through register with denominational numeral 100, a latent image with the numeral and also a Devanagari version of the same.

It also contains a portrait of Mahatma Gandhi at the centre, with micro letters `RBI`, `Bharat`, `India` and `20`, along with with a guarantee clause, Governor`s signature with Promise Clause and RBI emblem towards the right of Gandhi`s portrait.

On the right side of the portrait are -- an Ashoka Pillar emblem and electrotype (20) watermarks.&nbsp;

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced that it will shortly issue Rs 20 denomination banknotes, in the Mahatma Gandhi (New) series, bearing the signature of the central bank`s governor Shaktikanta Das.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced that it will shortly issue Rs 20 denomination banknotes, in the Mahatma Gandhi (New) series, bearing the signature of the central bank`s governor Shaktikanta Das. "The Rs 20 note will be greenish-yellow in colour. The new banknote has a motif of Ellora Caves on the reverse, depicting the country`s cultural heritage," a statement by the RBI said. All the banknotes in the denomination of Rs 20 issued by the RBI in the earlier series will continue to be legal tender, it clarified. The note has other designs, geometric patterns aligning with the overall colour scheme, both at the obverse and reverse. The dimension of the new Rs 20 note will be 63 mm x 129 mm, the statement said. The obverse (front) side of the note contains a see-through register with denominational numeral 100, a latent image with the numeral and also a Devanagari version of the same. It also contains a portrait of Mahatma Gandhi at the centre, with micro letters `RBI`, `Bharat`, `India` and `20`, along with with a guarantee clause, Governor`s signature with Promise Clause and RBI emblem towards the right of Gandhi`s portrait. On the right side of the portrait are -- an Ashoka Pillar emblem and electrotype (20) watermarks.

RBI to issue new Rs 20 denomination banknotes

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Friday said the BJP and its ideologue RSS cannot tolerate their criticism and have no regard for the democratic system.&nbsp; 
 
Mahatma Gandhi had said that opposition's views should be respected in a democracy, but neither Prime Minister Narendra Modi nor former chief minister Vasundhara Raje can tolerate their criticism, the senior Congress leader said.&nbsp; 
 
'People in the BJP and RSS are not able to tolerate their criticism. 
 
Mahatma Gandhi had said views of opposition should be respected in democracy, but neither Prime Minister (Modi) nor former state chief minister (Raje) can tolerate their criticism as they do not believe in the&nbsp;democratic systems, 'Gehlot said at a public meeting in Sri Dungargarh.&nbsp; 
 
He said the saffron brigade was doing politics with the 'mask of democracy'.&nbsp; 
 
The chief minister alleged that the BJP recalled the issue of Ram Temple when elections were near.&nbsp; 
 
Targeting the central government over its 2014 election promises, the senior Congress leader said Modi failed to bring back black money, deposit Rs 15 lakh in bank accounts of people and provide 2 crore employment every year. 
 
Gehlot added that there was 'no guarantee'&nbsp;of future elections if Modi was voted back to power. 
&nbsp; 
'...There is no guarantee that there will be elections in the future if Modi is elected again,'&nbsp;he said.&nbsp;

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Friday said the BJP and its ideologue RSS cannot tolerate their criticism and have no regard for the democratic system. Mahatma Gandhi had said that opposition's views should be respected in a democracy, but neither Prime Minister Narendra Modi nor former chief minister Vasundhara Raje can tolerate their criticism, the senior Congress leader said.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Friday said the BJP and its ideologue RSS cannot tolerate their criticism and have no regard for the democratic system. Mahatma Gandhi had said that opposition's views should be respected in a democracy, but neither Prime Minister Narendra Modi nor former chief minister Vasundhara Raje can tolerate their criticism, the senior Congress leader said. 'People in the BJP and RSS are not able to tolerate their criticism. Mahatma Gandhi had said views of opposition should be respected in democracy, but neither Prime Minister (Modi) nor former state chief minister (Raje) can tolerate their criticism as they do not believe in the democratic systems, 'Gehlot said at a public meeting in Sri Dungargarh. He said the saffron brigade was doing politics with the 'mask of democracy'. The chief minister alleged that the BJP recalled the issue of Ram Temple when elections were near. Targeting the central government over its 2014 election promises, the senior Congress leader said Modi failed to bring back black money, deposit Rs 15 lakh in bank accounts of people and provide 2 crore employment every year. Gehlot added that there was 'no guarantee' of future elections if Modi was voted back to power. '...There is no guarantee that there will be elections in the future if Modi is elected again,' he said.

BJP-RSS cannot tolerate criticism, no regard for democracy: Ashok Gehlot

Five people have been arrested for allegedly burning an effigy of Mahatma Gandhi, in an enactment of his assassination on his death anniversary, officials said Thursday.

The suspects, allegedly belonging to the right-wing All India Hindu Mahasabha, fired at the effigy before setting it ablaze on Wednesday, police said.

They shouted slogans against Gandhi and in praise of his killer Nathu Ram Godse during the act, a video which surfaced later suggested.

The charges against the men include promoting hatred and disrupting harmony, police said.

A purported video of the enactment of Gandhi's assassination was circulated on social media, with the right wing-group drawing massive condemnation.

Police Wednesday registered a case against 13 people, including the group's national general secretary Puja Shakun Pandey, who was seen firing at the effigy in the video, the officials said.

"We are taking this matter seriously and action will be taken against all those found guilty," Aligarh's Senior Superintendent of Police Akash Kulhary said.

Two of the accused, Manoj, who had set the effigy on fire, and Abhishek were arrested Wednesday, another officer said.

"This morning, we arrested Gajendra, who is locally called 'Vakil saheb'. He had also opened fire at the effigy along with Pandey," Additional Superintendent of Police Neeraj Kumar Jadaun told.

"Two more accused were arrested later this evening. They have been identified as Harishankar Sharma and Rajeev, the tall man with a beard and black jacket, as seen in the footage," he said.

They have been booked under the Indian Penal Code Sections 153A (promoting enmity between different groups and doing acts prejudicial to maintenance of harmony) and 295A (deliberate and malicious acts, intended to outrage reli?gious feelings of any class by insulting its religion or reli?gious beliefs), 147, 148, 149 (related to rioting), Jadaun said.

Five people have been arrested for allegedly burning an effigy of Mahatma Gandhi, in an enactment of his assassination on his death anniversary, officials said Thursday.

Five people have been arrested for allegedly burning an effigy of Mahatma Gandhi, in an enactment of his assassination on his death anniversary, officials said Thursday. The suspects, allegedly belonging to the right-wing All India Hindu Mahasabha, fired at the effigy before setting it ablaze on Wednesday, police said. They shouted slogans against Gandhi and in praise of his killer Nathu Ram Godse during the act, a video which surfaced later suggested. The charges against the men include promoting hatred and disrupting harmony, police said. A purported video of the enactment of Gandhi's assassination was circulated on social media, with the right wing-group drawing massive condemnation. Police Wednesday registered a case against 13 people, including the group's national general secretary Puja Shakun Pandey, who was seen firing at the effigy in the video, the officials said. "We are taking this matter seriously and action will be taken against all those found guilty," Aligarh's Senior Superintendent of Police Akash Kulhary said. Two of the accused, Manoj, who had set the effigy on fire, and Abhishek were arrested Wednesday, another officer said. "This morning, we arrested Gajendra, who is locally called 'Vakil saheb'. He had also opened fire at the effigy along with Pandey," Additional Superintendent of Police Neeraj Kumar Jadaun told. "Two more accused were arrested later this evening. They have been identified as Harishankar Sharma and Rajeev, the tall man with a beard and black jacket, as seen in the footage," he said. They have been booked under the Indian Penal Code Sections 153A (promoting enmity between different groups and doing acts prejudicial to maintenance of harmony) and 295A (deliberate and malicious acts, intended to outrage reli?gious feelings of any class by insulting its religion or reli?gious beliefs), 147, 148, 149 (related to rioting), Jadaun said.

Five held for burning Mahatma Gandhi's effigy, enact his assassination

The nation remembered Mahatma Gandhi on his 71st death anniversary Wednesday with President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi leading the country in paying homage to the Father of the Nation.

Kovind, Modi and Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu paid floral tributes at Gandhi's memorial at Rajghat here.

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Hardeep Singh Puri were among others who paid homage to the Father of the Nation at Rajghat, where an inter-religion prayer was held.

Mahatma Gandhi's favourite bhajan "Raghupati Raghava Raja Ram" was also played at Rajghat.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi and former prime minister Manmohan Singh also paid tributes to the Mahatma at his memorial.&nbsp;

Remembering Mahatma on his death anniversary, Modi tweeted,&nbsp;"...Remembering Bapu on his Punya Tithi. We reiterate our commitment to follow the path shown by him and abide by the values he stood for."

Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated on this day in 1948.&nbsp;

The prime minister also paid tributes to all those who laid down their lives for the country.

"We salute all the martyrs who laid down their lives for India. The country remains eternally grateful to them for their service and sacrifice," he said.&nbsp;

Several Union ministers and senior leaders paid tributes to the Father of the Nation.

The nation remembered Mahatma Gandhi on his 71st death anniversary Wednesday with President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi leading the country in paying homage to the Father of the Nation.

The nation remembered Mahatma Gandhi on his 71st death anniversary Wednesday with President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi leading the country in paying homage to the Father of the Nation. Kovind, Modi and Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu paid floral tributes at Gandhi's memorial at Rajghat here. Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Hardeep Singh Puri were among others who paid homage to the Father of the Nation at Rajghat, where an inter-religion prayer was held. Mahatma Gandhi's favourite bhajan "Raghupati Raghava Raja Ram" was also played at Rajghat. Congress president Rahul Gandhi and former prime minister Manmohan Singh also paid tributes to the Mahatma at his memorial. Remembering Mahatma on his death anniversary, Modi tweeted, "...Remembering Bapu on his Punya Tithi. We reiterate our commitment to follow the path shown by him and abide by the values he stood for." Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated on this day in 1948. The prime minister also paid tributes to all those who laid down their lives for the country. "We salute all the martyrs who laid down their lives for India. The country remains eternally grateful to them for their service and sacrifice," he said. Several Union ministers and senior leaders paid tributes to the Father of the Nation.

Nation remembers Mahatma Gandhi on his 71st death anniversary

70 years back, right-wing ideologue, Nathuram Godse inspired by fascist ideas assassinated Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi who in his eyes was compromising Indian interest at the cost of Pakistan. He pumped three bullets in Bapu’s frail body. The last word he uttered was “He Ram” and subsequently, he collapsed on the spot bringing post-partition violence to a halt.

To borrow words from the famous writer and poet, Makarand Paranjape, his assassination created a collective guilt bringing mad men to a halt and injected normalcy of routine to a land already wounded by macabre violence.

Bapu today is being remembered by political parties for different reasons. Today there exists a rush to appropriate Gandhi politically to milk him for current politics. Whether it is khadi or charkha, the symbols associated with self-sustenance and non-violence are being used either to reimagine a non-existent past or to appropriate him for political campaigns.&nbsp;

This is expected of political parties, but the larger issue today is that today 70 years after his assassination, India stands at the same crossroads where it stood right after independence. The consensus built by the freedom fighters which found expression in the Constitution stands challenged today. The idea of citizenship stands challenged today. The legal domain also stands challenged today in context of Ayodhya dispute where the incumbent regime wants to start the work even before the judgment can be delivered. Gandhi’s idealism and decency in public life stands challenged today. In India, cultural harmony stands challenged today.

Gandhi should be remembered for his idea of a composite society with a long past. Instead of harping on homogenous cultural past, Gandhi’s idea of India was inclusive and accommodative. It is ironical that today both Left and Right appreciate Gandhi to fight each other. Left was not at all comfortable with Gandhi’s religiosity, non-violence and his relationship with Bombay elites.

The right attacked Gandhi for a secular India. They detested his idea of Muslims being part of Indian nation. They believed that Gandhi was partial towards Pakistan.

Neither of them could tolerate his idea of Ram Rajya and blending of different cultural and religious tradition which was evident in the prayer meetings he organized every day in mornings.

Gandhi touched India profoundly. During the freedom struggle, he was the moral fulcrum of the Congress and his leadership united hundreds of local and regional insurgencies against the British under the Congress umbrella. He created a line of leaders who would go on to run the country. In his own way, those he found extreme in their action or outside his political eco-system had to leave the Congress to chart their own journey. The example, in this case, is Subhash Chandra Bose. Bapu’s assassination also led to Sardar Patel and Jawaharlal working even more closely even though they bickered with each other on the issues of policy and mandate.

Gandhi symbolized the eternal truth of the Indian sub-continent. Big religious and social changes have always been brought about by people who are called saints or ‘sants’ in the name of the ‘true’ social fabric of the soil. Gandhi was also in the same category. His campaign for freedom had strong moral and cultural underpinning. His struggle was defined by his sense of morality which was not instrumental in nature. It differentiated Bapu’s struggle with freedom struggles which rocked African and Asian continents.

He was wedded to both religion and spirituality. People would find it difficult to recall as to how many temples did Gandhi visit during his lifetime but even today his commitment to the idea of Ram cannot be questioned.

He did not abandon cultural and religious codes in public life. He did not compromise pluralism in Indian society. Today politicians in India are trying to prove their devoutness by visiting temples which is devoid of spirituality.

India today remembers Gandhi for attributes which suits them. A complex personality like Gandhi had one very simple message and that being compassion in public life. It is the absence of this compassion which India lacks today. There are many things which India of today can be critiqued from Gandhian perspective; be it the size of the state and rising inequality but we can begin by injecting compassion and decency in public life.

Lastly, Gandhi viewed India as a plural state. His "Ram Rajya" was all-encompassing. India today is witnessing an attempt to alter its character and it must be resisted at any cost as India cannot become a Hindu Pakistan. India should not mimic the French secularism experience, but it can also become a which does not respect its cultural heritage. His death should remind us all.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

70 years back, right-wing ideologue, Nathuram Godse inspired by fascist ideas assassinated Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi who in his eyes was compromising Indian interest at the cost of Pakistan.

70 years back, right-wing ideologue, Nathuram Godse inspired by fascist ideas assassinated Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi who in his eyes was compromising Indian interest at the cost of Pakistan. He pumped three bullets in Bapu’s frail body. The last word he uttered was “He Ram” and subsequently, he collapsed on the spot bringing post-partition violence to a halt. To borrow words from the famous writer and poet, Makarand Paranjape, his assassination created a collective guilt bringing mad men to a halt and injected normalcy of routine to a land already wounded by macabre violence. Bapu today is being remembered by political parties for different reasons. Today there exists a rush to appropriate Gandhi politically to milk him for current politics. Whether it is khadi or charkha, the symbols associated with self-sustenance and non-violence are being used either to reimagine a non-existent past or to appropriate him for political campaigns. This is expected of political parties, but the larger issue today is that today 70 years after his assassination, India stands at the same crossroads where it stood right after independence. The consensus built by the freedom fighters which found expression in the Constitution stands challenged today. The idea of citizenship stands challenged today. The legal domain also stands challenged today in context of Ayodhya dispute where the incumbent regime wants to start the work even before the judgment can be delivered. Gandhi’s idealism and decency in public life stands challenged today. In India, cultural harmony stands challenged today. Gandhi should be remembered for his idea of a composite society with a long past. Instead of harping on homogenous cultural past, Gandhi’s idea of India was inclusive and accommodative. It is ironical that today both Left and Right appreciate Gandhi to fight each other. Left was not at all comfortable with Gandhi’s religiosity, non-violence and his relationship with Bombay elites. The right attacked Gandhi for a secular India. They detested his idea of Muslims being part of Indian nation. They believed that Gandhi was partial towards Pakistan. Neither of them could tolerate his idea of Ram Rajya and blending of different cultural and religious tradition which was evident in the prayer meetings he organized every day in mornings. Gandhi touched India profoundly. During the freedom struggle, he was the moral fulcrum of the Congress and his leadership united hundreds of local and regional insurgencies against the British under the Congress umbrella. He created a line of leaders who would go on to run the country. In his own way, those he found extreme in their action or outside his political eco-system had to leave the Congress to chart their own journey. The example, in this case, is Subhash Chandra Bose. Bapu’s assassination also led to Sardar Patel and Jawaharlal working even more closely even though they bickered with each other on the issues of policy and mandate. Gandhi symbolized the eternal truth of the Indian sub-continent. Big religious and social changes have always been brought about by people who are called saints or ‘sants’ in the name of the ‘true’ social fabric of the soil. Gandhi was also in the same category. His campaign for freedom had strong moral and cultural underpinning. His struggle was defined by his sense of morality which was not instrumental in nature. It differentiated Bapu’s struggle with freedom struggles which rocked African and Asian continents. He was wedded to both religion and spirituality. People would find it difficult to recall as to how many temples did Gandhi visit during his lifetime but even today his commitment to the idea of Ram cannot be questioned. He did not abandon cultural and religious codes in public life. He did not compromise pluralism in Indian society. Today politicians in India are trying to prove their devoutness by visiting temples which is devoid of spirituality. India today remembers Gandhi for attributes which suits them. A complex personality like Gandhi had one very simple message and that being compassion in public life. It is the absence of this compassion which India lacks today. There are many things which India of today can be critiqued from Gandhian perspective; be it the size of the state and rising inequality but we can begin by injecting compassion and decency in public life. Lastly, Gandhi viewed India as a plural state. His "Ram Rajya" was all-encompassing. India today is witnessing an attempt to alter its character and it must be resisted at any cost as India cannot become a Hindu Pakistan. India should not mimic the French secularism experience, but it can also become a which does not respect its cultural heritage. His death should remind us all. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Remembering Gandhi: Selective appropriation of Bapu

Declining to toe the government's stand that he required security, Mahatma Gandhi had told the authorities that he would leave Delhi if protection was insisted upon, Kalyanam who was secretary to the father of the nation said.

Although there were warnings to Gandhiji from the government -several weeks ahead of his assassination - that he faced threat to his life, the man who steered the nation's freedom movement told the authorities that he does not want security.

January 30, the day of the assassination of Gandhi in 1948 is observed as Martyr's Day.

"Gandhiji said I don't believe in security, I don't want security, if you want me to have security, I will leave Delhi and will go somewhere else," Kalyanam told PTI.

"Had Gandhiji agreed to have security, people might have been frisked and his assassination could have been averted,"&nbsp;he said.

Asked on memorable incidents with Gandhiji, the 96-year old recalled that Gandhiji had admonished a railway station master once for telling him that "you are a great leader why do you need a ticket to travel."

Kalyanam said he was tasked by Gandhiji to buy third class tickets for his entourage through the railway had earmarked a separate coach for the top leader.

Kalyanam joined Gandhiji in 1943 and served him till his death when he was assassinated in 1948.&nbsp;

Declining to toe the government's stand that he required security, Mahatma Gandhi had told the authorities that he would leave Delhi if protection was insisted upon, Kalyanam who was secretary to the father of the nation said.

Declining to toe the government's stand that he required security, Mahatma Gandhi had told the authorities that he would leave Delhi if protection was insisted upon, Kalyanam who was secretary to the father of the nation said. Although there were warnings to Gandhiji from the government -several weeks ahead of his assassination - that he faced threat to his life, the man who steered the nation's freedom movement told the authorities that he does not want security. January 30, the day of the assassination of Gandhi in 1948 is observed as Martyr's Day. "Gandhiji said I don't believe in security, I don't want security, if you want me to have security, I will leave Delhi and will go somewhere else," Kalyanam told PTI. "Had Gandhiji agreed to have security, people might have been frisked and his assassination could have been averted," he said. Asked on memorable incidents with Gandhiji, the 96-year old recalled that Gandhiji had admonished a railway station master once for telling him that "you are a great leader why do you need a ticket to travel." Kalyanam said he was tasked by Gandhiji to buy third class tickets for his entourage through the railway had earmarked a separate coach for the top leader. Kalyanam joined Gandhiji in 1943 and served him till his death when he was assassinated in 1948.

Assassination could have been averted: Mahatma Gandhi's secretary

In pics: How world celebrated India's 70th Republic Day

A dawn-to-dusk 12-hour hartal called by Hindu outfits began Thursday morning in protest against the entry of<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sabarimala-kerala-cm-confirms-entry-of-2-women-tdp-board-denies-temple-shut-for-purification-187821"> two women of menstruating age into the Sabarimala temple </a>of Lord Ayyappa.

As per initial reports, auto-rickshaws and two-wheelers were plying at the railway station in the state capital and various other places.

But in Kozhikode, protesters blocked vehicles and burnt tyres in the morning.

The hartal, which began at 6 am, has been called by Sabarimala Karma Samithi, an umbrella organisation of various pro-Hindutva groups, spearheading protests against the Supreme Court's September 28 verdict, and Antarrashtriya Hindu Parishad (AHP).

The BJP is supporting the shutdown while the Congress-led UDF is observing a "black day" on Thursday.

Two women,<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sabarimala-row-women-pilgrims-made-to-return-from-lord-ayyappa-shrine-186126"> Kanakadurga (44) and Bindu (42)</a>, created history be stepping into the hallowed precincts guarded by police three months after the Supreme Court's historic judgement lifting the ban on entry of girls and women between 10 and 50 years of age into the shrine of Lord Ayyappa, its "eternally celibate" deity.

As the news spread like wildfire from the hill shrine, protests erupted at several places, with Hindu right-wing activists blocking highways and forcing closure of shops and markets.

BJP and CPI(M) workers clashed in front of the Secretariat for over five hours Wednesday as police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse them.

A 55-year-old man, who was seriously injured in stone throwing at Pandalam, died late Wednesday night.

Merchants' organisations have said they would not cooperate with the hartal and keep shops and business establishments open.

Meanwhile, state DGP Loknath Behara has warned of strict action against those indulging in violence during the hartal.

Various universities, including Kerala, Mahatma Gandhi, Calicut and Kannur have postponed their examinations scheduled for Thursday.&nbsp;

As per initial reports, auto-rickshaws and two-wheelers were plying at the railway station in the state capital and various other places.

A dawn-to-dusk 12-hour hartal called by Hindu outfits began Thursday morning in protest against the entry of two women of menstruating age into the Sabarimala temple of Lord Ayyappa. As per initial reports, auto-rickshaws and two-wheelers were plying at the railway station in the state capital and various other places. But in Kozhikode, protesters blocked vehicles and burnt tyres in the morning. The hartal, which began at 6 am, has been called by Sabarimala Karma Samithi, an umbrella organisation of various pro-Hindutva groups, spearheading protests against the Supreme Court's September 28 verdict, and Antarrashtriya Hindu Parishad (AHP). The BJP is supporting the shutdown while the Congress-led UDF is observing a "black day" on Thursday. Two women, Kanakadurga (44) and Bindu (42), created history be stepping into the hallowed precincts guarded by police three months after the Supreme Court's historic judgement lifting the ban on entry of girls and women between 10 and 50 years of age into the shrine of Lord Ayyappa, its "eternally celibate" deity. As the news spread like wildfire from the hill shrine, protests erupted at several places, with Hindu right-wing activists blocking highways and forcing closure of shops and markets. BJP and CPI(M) workers clashed in front of the Secretariat for over five hours Wednesday as police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse them. A 55-year-old man, who was seriously injured in stone throwing at Pandalam, died late Wednesday night. Merchants' organisations have said they would not cooperate with the hartal and keep shops and business establishments open. Meanwhile, state DGP Loknath Behara has warned of strict action against those indulging in violence during the hartal. Various universities, including Kerala, Mahatma Gandhi, Calicut and Kannur have postponed their examinations scheduled for Thursday.

Kerala shutdown over entry of 2 women to Sabarimala temple, public transport hit

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-is-pulling-its-citizens-out-of-poverty-at-a-record-pace-pm-modi-in-mann-ki-baat-187307">Prime Minister Narendra Modi </a>Sunday said he hoped sanitation will be maintained along with reverence at Kumbh Mela in January, saying it will send a positive message far and wide.

In his monthly <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bapu-had-a-special-connection-with-south-africa-pm-in-last-mann-ki-baat-of-2018-187317">'Mann ki Baat' radio address</a>, last this year, he said this time much emphasis is being laid on cleanliness during Kumbh.&nbsp;

"If during the course of this event sanitation prevails along with reverence, then it will lead to a positive message reaching far and wide," the Prime Minister said.

He said, Kumbh Mela is also a huge medium of self-discovery, where every visitor experiences a unique feeling and learns to look at the worldly things from a spiritual perspective.&nbsp;

"This can be a huge learning experience especially for the youth," he felt.

The Kumbh Mela will commence from January 15 at Prayagraj.

The Mela draws lakhs of pilgrims over the course of approximately 55 auspicious days to bathe at the sacred confluence of the Ganga, the Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati.

Referring to Republic Day celebrations, the PM said this time South African President Cyril Ramaphosa will be the chief guest as India also celebrates the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.&nbsp;

"Our revered Bapu and South Africa shared an unbreakable bond. It was South Africa, where Mohan (Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi) transformed into the 'Mahatma'. It was in South Africa, where Mahatma Gandhi had started his first Satyagraha and stood rock steady in protest of apartheid," Modi said.&nbsp;

He also said that at times when government organisations are described as a 'regulators', Food Safety and Standard Authority of India has been working beyond this brief for public awareness and public education.&nbsp;

It has launched a campaign on promoting good eating or safe and healthy diet habits.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday said he hoped sanitation will be maintained along with reverence at Kumbh Mela in January, saying it will send a positive message far and wide.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday said he hoped sanitation will be maintained along with reverence at Kumbh Mela in January, saying it will send a positive message far and wide. In his monthly 'Mann ki Baat' radio address, last this year, he said this time much emphasis is being laid on cleanliness during Kumbh. "If during the course of this event sanitation prevails along with reverence, then it will lead to a positive message reaching far and wide," the Prime Minister said. He said, Kumbh Mela is also a huge medium of self-discovery, where every visitor experiences a unique feeling and learns to look at the worldly things from a spiritual perspective. "This can be a huge learning experience especially for the youth," he felt. The Kumbh Mela will commence from January 15 at Prayagraj. The Mela draws lakhs of pilgrims over the course of approximately 55 auspicious days to bathe at the sacred confluence of the Ganga, the Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati. Referring to Republic Day celebrations, the PM said this time South African President Cyril Ramaphosa will be the chief guest as India also celebrates the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. "Our revered Bapu and South Africa shared an unbreakable bond. It was South Africa, where Mohan (Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi) transformed into the 'Mahatma'. It was in South Africa, where Mahatma Gandhi had started his first Satyagraha and stood rock steady in protest of apartheid," Modi said. He also said that at times when government organisations are described as a 'regulators', Food Safety and Standard Authority of India has been working beyond this brief for public awareness and public education. It has launched a campaign on promoting good eating or safe and healthy diet habits.

Hope sanitation prevails along with reverence: PM Modi on Kumbh Mela

In his last "Mann Ki Baat" radio programme of the year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the special connection between India and South Africa quoting the father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi.&nbsp;

"Bapu had a special connection with South Africa... it was in South Africa Mohan became Mahatma. It was in South Africa, Gandhi started his first satyagraha, stood against racism, He founded Phoenix and Tolstoy farms from where demands for peace and justice reverberated around the world," Modi said.

''Mahatma Gandhi's first experiment with truth was here (South Africa). It was here that he showed his exceptional determination for justice and developed a philosophy of satyagraha and methods of struggle here," Modi added.

India is celebrating the 150 birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and several events are being planned in the country as well as abroad. South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa will be the chief guest for Republic Day programme in 2019.&nbsp;

"This year we are celebrating 150 birth anniversary of Bapu. Its a matter of great pride that South African President Cyril Ramaphosa would be the chief guest at republic day 2019," Modi said during Mann Ki Baat.&nbsp;

The Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially handed over the invite to South African President in a bilateral on the sidelines of G20 in Argentina on December 1.

PM Modi also spoke about Nelson Mandela who ''was an icon in the fight against apartheid" and said Mandela drew inspiration from Mahatma.&nbsp;

2018 is being observed as the birth centenary year of Nelson Mandela.&nbsp;

Drawing parallels between "Madiba and Bapu", PM said, "Bapu and Mandela are a source of inspiration for the world. Their rectitude encourages us to build a loving and sympathetic society."

PM Modi had paid an official visit to South Africa from 7-9 July 2016 and visited Pretoria, Johannesburg, Pietermaritzburg and Durban.&nbsp;

In his last "Mann Ki Baat" radio programme of the year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the special connection between India and South Africa quoting the father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi.

In his last "Mann Ki Baat" radio programme of the year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the special connection between India and South Africa quoting the father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi. "Bapu had a special connection with South Africa... it was in South Africa Mohan became Mahatma. It was in South Africa, Gandhi started his first satyagraha, stood against racism, He founded Phoenix and Tolstoy farms from where demands for peace and justice reverberated around the world," Modi said. ''Mahatma Gandhi's first experiment with truth was here (South Africa). It was here that he showed his exceptional determination for justice and developed a philosophy of satyagraha and methods of struggle here," Modi added. India is celebrating the 150 birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and several events are being planned in the country as well as abroad. South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa will be the chief guest for Republic Day programme in 2019. "This year we are celebrating 150 birth anniversary of Bapu. Its a matter of great pride that South African President Cyril Ramaphosa would be the chief guest at republic day 2019," Modi said during Mann Ki Baat. The Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially handed over the invite to South African President in a bilateral on the sidelines of G20 in Argentina on December 1. PM Modi also spoke about Nelson Mandela who ''was an icon in the fight against apartheid" and said Mandela drew inspiration from Mahatma. 2018 is being observed as the birth centenary year of Nelson Mandela. Drawing parallels between "Madiba and Bapu", PM said, "Bapu and Mandela are a source of inspiration for the world. Their rectitude encourages us to build a loving and sympathetic society." PM Modi had paid an official visit to South Africa from 7-9 July 2016 and visited Pretoria, Johannesburg, Pietermaritzburg and Durban.

Bapu had a special connection with South Africa: PM Modi in last Mann Ki Baat of 2018 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that governments may have schemes and budgets but the success of any initiative lies in public involvement.&nbsp;

Addressing the IT professionals in Delhi, Modi said every effort, however big or small, must be valued.&nbsp;

''I'm connected through social media, however, I do not believe every information that I come across. I find the information I want on social media,'' Modi further said.&nbsp;

The prime minister also lauded the youngsters' effort in leveraging the power of technology.&nbsp;

India's youngsters are leveraging the power of technology wonderfully. They are using technology not only for themselves but also for the welfare of others which is a great sign, the PM said.&nbsp;

The symbol of the Swachh Bharat Mission is the specs of Bapu, the inspiration is Bapu and we are fulfilling Bapu's vision, said Modi referring to Gandhi's ideas on sanitation and hygiene which the father of the nation considered to be more important than political independence.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that governments may have schemes and budgets but the success of any initiative lies in public involvement. Addressing the IT professionals in Delhi, Modi said every effort, however big or small, must be valued.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that governments may have schemes and budgets but the success of any initiative lies in public involvement. Addressing the IT professionals in Delhi, Modi said every effort, however big or small, must be valued. ''I'm connected through social media, however, I do not believe every information that I come across. I find the information I want on social media,'' Modi further said. The prime minister also lauded the youngsters' effort in leveraging the power of technology. India's youngsters are leveraging the power of technology wonderfully. They are using technology not only for themselves but also for the welfare of others which is a great sign, the PM said. The symbol of the Swachh Bharat Mission is the specs of Bapu, the inspiration is Bapu and we are fulfilling Bapu's vision, said Modi referring to Gandhi's ideas on sanitation and hygiene which the father of the nation considered to be more important than political independence.

Success of any government initiative lies in public involvement: PM Modi 

As part of the commemoration of the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, over 900 prisoners have been released in the first phase of the Centre's scheme for grant of special remission to specific categories of prisoners.

The decision was taken by the Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on July 18, 2018.

The prisoners are decided to be released in three phases -- October 2, 2018, April 6, 2019, and October 2, 2019.

In the week-long first phase of special remission to prisoners, the States and Union Territories, after obtaining the approval of the competent authority in their jurisdictions released the prisoners.

The States and Union Territories have also been advised to hold week-long functions in all prison premises based on the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi before the dates specified for the release of prisoners.

The prisoners will garland the status of Mahatma Gandhi and at the time of their release, they will be gifted with books relating to the Father of the Nation.

Women and transgender convicts, who are of 55 years of age and above and have completed 50 per cent of their actual sentence period, are eligible for special remission.

Meanwhile, male convicts of 60 years of age and above, who have completed 50 per cent of their actual sentence period, are also subjected to benefit under the central government's scheme.

Apart from this, physically-challenged convicts with 70 per cent disability, terminally-ill convicts, prisoners who have completed two-thirds of their actual sentence period are also eligible for special remission.

The remission scheme is not available to prisoners who have been convicted for an offence for which the sentence awarded is death or where the death sentence has been commuted to life imprisonment.

Cases of convicts involved in crimes like dowry death, rape, human trafficking, and others also are not included in this.&nbsp;

As part of the commemoration of the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, over 900 prisoners have been released in the first phase of the Centre's scheme for grant of special remission to specific categories of prisoners.

As part of the commemoration of the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, over 900 prisoners have been released in the first phase of the Centre's scheme for grant of special remission to specific categories of prisoners. The decision was taken by the Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on July 18, 2018. The prisoners are decided to be released in three phases -- October 2, 2018, April 6, 2019, and October 2, 2019. In the week-long first phase of special remission to prisoners, the States and Union Territories, after obtaining the approval of the competent authority in their jurisdictions released the prisoners. The States and Union Territories have also been advised to hold week-long functions in all prison premises based on the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi before the dates specified for the release of prisoners. The prisoners will garland the status of Mahatma Gandhi and at the time of their release, they will be gifted with books relating to the Father of the Nation. Women and transgender convicts, who are of 55 years of age and above and have completed 50 per cent of their actual sentence period, are eligible for special remission. Meanwhile, male convicts of 60 years of age and above, who have completed 50 per cent of their actual sentence period, are also subjected to benefit under the central government's scheme. Apart from this, physically-challenged convicts with 70 per cent disability, terminally-ill convicts, prisoners who have completed two-thirds of their actual sentence period are also eligible for special remission. The remission scheme is not available to prisoners who have been convicted for an offence for which the sentence awarded is death or where the death sentence has been commuted to life imprisonment. Cases of convicts involved in crimes like dowry death, rape, human trafficking, and others also are not included in this.

Over 900 prisoners to be released to mark Mahatma Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary

Music has no barriers and transcends religion and borders. Pakistani singer Shafqat Amanat Ali just proved that when it comes to music, religion becomes secondary. In a video that is doing the rounds of the Internet, Ali sings a heart-stirring version of 'Vaishnava Janato'- a popular Hindu bhajan which was Mahatma Gandhi's favourite bhajan.&nbsp; 
 
Senior journalist Madhavan Narayan shared the video of Ali singing the popular Bhajan in his soulful voice. Narayan wrote, "Moving! Pakistani singer Shafqat Amanat Ali sings Vaishnava Janato and has gifted it to India via the Indian High Commission. The high commissioner's wife Bharati Chaturvedi sent this to me," 
 
Sung to perfection, Ali's version will give you goosebumps.&nbsp; 
 
<iframe allowfullscreen="true" allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="315" scrolling="no" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fmadhavan.n%2Fvideos%2F10156799632308824%2F&amp;show_text=0&amp;width=560" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" width="560"></iframe> 
 
The video was shared a day after Mahatma Gandhi's birthday and was performed to mark the 150th birth anniversary of the great leader.&nbsp;

Ali is credited for singing chartbuster numbers like 'Mitwa', 'Dil Daara', 'Manchala' in Bollywood and has a huge fan following in India. The singer was also part of the popular Pakistani band 'Fuzon'.&nbsp; 
 
Written in the 15th century by the poet Narsinh Mehta in the Gujarati language, 'Vaishnava Janato' was included in Mahatma Gandhi’s daily prayers. The bhajan speaks about the life, ideals and mentality of &nbsp;Lord Vishnu follower.

Music has no barriers and transcends religion and borders. Pakistani singer Shafqat Amanat Ali just proved that when it comes to music, religion becomes secondary.

Music has no barriers and transcends religion and borders. Pakistani singer Shafqat Amanat Ali just proved that when it comes to music, religion becomes secondary. In a video that is doing the rounds of the Internet, Ali sings a heart-stirring version of 'Vaishnava Janato'- a popular Hindu bhajan which was Mahatma Gandhi's favourite bhajan. Senior journalist Madhavan Narayan shared the video of Ali singing the popular Bhajan in his soulful voice. Narayan wrote, "Moving! Pakistani singer Shafqat Amanat Ali sings Vaishnava Janato and has gifted it to India via the Indian High Commission. The high commissioner's wife Bharati Chaturvedi sent this to me," Sung to perfection, Ali's version will give you goosebumps. The video was shared a day after Mahatma Gandhi's birthday and was performed to mark the 150th birth anniversary of the great leader. Ali is credited for singing chartbuster numbers like 'Mitwa', 'Dil Daara', 'Manchala' in Bollywood and has a huge fan following in India. The singer was also part of the popular Pakistani band 'Fuzon'. Written in the 15th century by the poet Narsinh Mehta in the Gujarati language, 'Vaishnava Janato' was included in Mahatma Gandhi’s daily prayers. The bhajan speaks about the life, ideals and mentality of Lord Vishnu follower.

Watch: Pakistani singer Shafqat Amanat Ali's rendition of 'Vaishnava Janato' will give you goosebumps

Today we mark the beginning of the 150th birth anniversary celebrations of our beloved Bapu. He remains a shining beacon of hope for millions of people across the world who seek a life of equality, dignity, inclusion and empowerment. The impact he left on human society has few parallels.

Mahatma Gandhi connected India, in letter and spirit, in thought and action. As Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel rightly said, “India is a land of diversity. There is no land with such diversity as ours. If there was one person who brought everyone together, made people rise above differences, to fight colonialism and enhanced India’s stature at the world stage, it was Mahatma Gandhi. And, he began to do this not in India but from South Africa itself. Bapu could see ahead and could understand the larger picture. He remained committed to his principles till his last breath.”

In the 21st century, the thoughts of Mahatma Gandhi remain as essential as they were in his time and offer solutions to several problems the world faces. In a world where terrorism, radicalization, extremism and mindless hate are dividing nations as well as societies, Mahatma Gandhi’s clarion call of peace and Ahimsa have the power to unite humanity.

At a time when inequalities are not uncommon, Bapu’s emphasis on equal and inclusive growth can herald an era of prosperity for the millions on the margins.

In pics: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/gandhis-global-influence-477">Global influence of Mahatma Gandhi</a>

In an era where climate change and environmental degradation have become central issues of discussion, the world can refer to the thoughts of Gandhiji. More than a century ago, in 1909, he differentiated between human wants and human greed. He urged both restraint and compassion while utilising natural resources and he himself led by example in doing this. He cleaned his own toilets, ensuring clean surroundings. He also ensured minimal wastage of water and when he was in Ahmedabad, he took great care to ensure that unclean water did not merge with the Sabarmati.

Sometime back, a crisp, comprehensive and concise document penned by Mahatma Gandhi caught my attention. In 1941, Bapu wrote the ‘Constructive Programme: its meaning and place’, which he subsequently modified in 1945, when there was renewed fervour around the freedom movement. In that document, Bapu has talked about a wide range of topics ranging from rural development, strengthening agriculture, enhancing sanitation, promoting Khadi, empowerment of women, economic equality among other issues.

I would urge my fellow Indians to have a look at Gandhiji’s ‘Constructive Programme’ (it is widely available both online and offline) and make it a guiding light on how we can build the India of Bapu’s dreams. Many topics in the ‘Constructive Programme’ are absolutely relevant today and the Government of India is fulfilling many of the points venerable Bapu raised seven decades ago but remain unfulfilled even today.

One of the most beautiful aspects of Gandhiji’s personality was that he made every Indian feel that he or she is working for India’s freedom. He instilled the spirit of self-belief that a teacher, lawyer, doctor, farmer, labourer, entrepreneur, in whatever they were doing they were contributing to India’s freedom struggle.

In the same light, today, let us embrace those aspects we think we can act upon that will fulfil Gandhiji’s vision. It can start with something as simple as ensuring zero waste of food to imbibing values of non-violence and togetherness.

Let us think about how our actions can contribute to a cleaner and greener environment for the future generations. Almost eight decades ago, when the threats of pollution were not as much, Mahatma Gandhi took to cycling. Those in Ahmedabad recall Gandhiji cycling from Gujarat Vidyapith to Sabarmati Ashram. In fact, I read that one of Gandhiji’s first protests in South Africa was against a set of laws that prevented people from cycling. Despite a prosperous legal career, Gandhiji would use the bicycle to travel in Johannesburg. It is said that when a plague hit Johannesburg, Gandhiji rushed to the worst affected spot on a cycle and immersed himself in relief work. Can we emulate this same spirit today?

The festive season is here and people across India would be shopping for new clothes, gifts, food items and more. While doing so, remember the wise thoughts Gandhiji gave us in the form of his talisman. Let us think about how our actions can light the lamp of prosperity in the lives of our fellow Indians. By buying what they make, be it a Khadi product, or a gift item or foodstuff, we are helping our fellow Indians in pursuit of a better life. We may never have seen them or may not do so for the rest of our lives. However, Bapu would be proud of us that in our actions we are helping fellow Indians.

Over the last four years, 130 crore Indians have paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi in the form of the Swachh Bharat Mission. With the hard work of each and every Indian, the Swachh Bharat Mission, which completes four years today, has emerged as a vibrant mass movement with commendable outcomes. Over 85 million households now have access to toilets for the first time. Over 400 million Indians no longer have to defecate in the open. In a short span of four years, sanitation coverage is up from 39 per cent to 95 per cent as 21 states, Union Territories and 4.5 lakhs villages are now open defecation free.

Swachh Bharat Mission is about dignity and a better future. It augurs well for crores of women that their troubles of having to hide their faces every morning while answering nature’s call in the open are history and for the children of India who were prone to several diseases due to lack of sanitation.

A few days ago, a Divyang brother from Rajasthan called me during the ‘Mann Ki Baat’ programme. Not able to see from both eyes, he narrated how having his own toilet made an extremely positive difference in his life. There are several Divyang sisters and brothers like him who have been saved from the inconvenience of going to public open defecation spots. The blessings I received from him will remain etched in my memory.

An overwhelming majority of Indians today did not have the good fortune of being a part of the freedom struggle. We could not die for the nation then but now, we must live for the nation and do everything possible to build the India our freedom fighters envisioned.

Today we have a great opportunity to fulfil Bapu’s dream. We have covered substantial ground and I am confident we will cover a lot more in the times to come.

One of Bapu’s favourite hymns, when translated, reads thus: “A good soul is one who feels the pain of others.” It was this spirit that made him live for others. Today, we, the 1.3 billion Indians are committed to working together to fulfil the dreams Bapu saw for a country for which he gave his life. 
 
(This is a special article by the Prime Minister of India to mark the beginning of the 150th birth anniversary celebrations of Mahatma Gandhi)

(This article was originally published on DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-fulfilling-bapu-s-dreams-2670424">original article</a>)

Today we mark the beginning of the 150th birth anniversary celebrations of our beloved Bapu. He remains a shining beacon of hope for millions of people across the world who seek a life of equality, dignity, inclusion and empowerment.

Today we mark the beginning of the 150th birth anniversary celebrations of our beloved Bapu. He remains a shining beacon of hope for millions of people across the world who seek a life of equality, dignity, inclusion and empowerment. The impact he left on human society has few parallels. Mahatma Gandhi connected India, in letter and spirit, in thought and action. As Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel rightly said, “India is a land of diversity. There is no land with such diversity as ours. If there was one person who brought everyone together, made people rise above differences, to fight colonialism and enhanced India’s stature at the world stage, it was Mahatma Gandhi. And, he began to do this not in India but from South Africa itself. Bapu could see ahead and could understand the larger picture. He remained committed to his principles till his last breath.” In the 21st century, the thoughts of Mahatma Gandhi remain as essential as they were in his time and offer solutions to several problems the world faces. In a world where terrorism, radicalization, extremism and mindless hate are dividing nations as well as societies, Mahatma Gandhi’s clarion call of peace and Ahimsa have the power to unite humanity. At a time when inequalities are not uncommon, Bapu’s emphasis on equal and inclusive growth can herald an era of prosperity for the millions on the margins. In pics: Global influence of Mahatma Gandhi In an era where climate change and environmental degradation have become central issues of discussion, the world can refer to the thoughts of Gandhiji. More than a century ago, in 1909, he differentiated between human wants and human greed. He urged both restraint and compassion while utilising natural resources and he himself led by example in doing this. He cleaned his own toilets, ensuring clean surroundings. He also ensured minimal wastage of water and when he was in Ahmedabad, he took great care to ensure that unclean water did not merge with the Sabarmati. Sometime back, a crisp, comprehensive and concise document penned by Mahatma Gandhi caught my attention. In 1941, Bapu wrote the ‘Constructive Programme: its meaning and place’, which he subsequently modified in 1945, when there was renewed fervour around the freedom movement. In that document, Bapu has talked about a wide range of topics ranging from rural development, strengthening agriculture, enhancing sanitation, promoting Khadi, empowerment of women, economic equality among other issues. I would urge my fellow Indians to have a look at Gandhiji’s ‘Constructive Programme’ (it is widely available both online and offline) and make it a guiding light on how we can build the India of Bapu’s dreams. Many topics in the ‘Constructive Programme’ are absolutely relevant today and the Government of India is fulfilling many of the points venerable Bapu raised seven decades ago but remain unfulfilled even today. One of the most beautiful aspects of Gandhiji’s personality was that he made every Indian feel that he or she is working for India’s freedom. He instilled the spirit of self-belief that a teacher, lawyer, doctor, farmer, labourer, entrepreneur, in whatever they were doing they were contributing to India’s freedom struggle. In the same light, today, let us embrace those aspects we think we can act upon that will fulfil Gandhiji’s vision. It can start with something as simple as ensuring zero waste of food to imbibing values of non-violence and togetherness. Let us think about how our actions can contribute to a cleaner and greener environment for the future generations. Almost eight decades ago, when the threats of pollution were not as much, Mahatma Gandhi took to cycling. Those in Ahmedabad recall Gandhiji cycling from Gujarat Vidyapith to Sabarmati Ashram. In fact, I read that one of Gandhiji’s first protests in South Africa was against a set of laws that prevented people from cycling. Despite a prosperous legal career, Gandhiji would use the bicycle to travel in Johannesburg. It is said that when a plague hit Johannesburg, Gandhiji rushed to the worst affected spot on a cycle and immersed himself in relief work. Can we emulate this same spirit today? The festive season is here and people across India would be shopping for new clothes, gifts, food items and more. While doing so, remember the wise thoughts Gandhiji gave us in the form of his talisman. Let us think about how our actions can light the lamp of prosperity in the lives of our fellow Indians. By buying what they make, be it a Khadi product, or a gift item or foodstuff, we are helping our fellow Indians in pursuit of a better life. We may never have seen them or may not do so for the rest of our lives. However, Bapu would be proud of us that in our actions we are helping fellow Indians. Over the last four years, 130 crore Indians have paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi in the form of the Swachh Bharat Mission. With the hard work of each and every Indian, the Swachh Bharat Mission, which completes four years today, has emerged as a vibrant mass movement with commendable outcomes. Over 85 million households now have access to toilets for the first time. Over 400 million Indians no longer have to defecate in the open. In a short span of four years, sanitation coverage is up from 39 per cent to 95 per cent as 21 states, Union Territories and 4.5 lakhs villages are now open defecation free. Swachh Bharat Mission is about dignity and a better future. It augurs well for crores of women that their troubles of having to hide their faces every morning while answering nature’s call in the open are history and for the children of India who were prone to several diseases due to lack of sanitation. A few days ago, a Divyang brother from Rajasthan called me during the ‘Mann Ki Baat’ programme. Not able to see from both eyes, he narrated how having his own toilet made an extremely positive difference in his life. There are several Divyang sisters and brothers like him who have been saved from the inconvenience of going to public open defecation spots. The blessings I received from him will remain etched in my memory. An overwhelming majority of Indians today did not have the good fortune of being a part of the freedom struggle. We could not die for the nation then but now, we must live for the nation and do everything possible to build the India our freedom fighters envisioned. Today we have a great opportunity to fulfil Bapu’s dream. We have covered substantial ground and I am confident we will cover a lot more in the times to come. One of Bapu’s favourite hymns, when translated, reads thus: “A good soul is one who feels the pain of others.” It was this spirit that made him live for others. Today, we, the 1.3 billion Indians are committed to working together to fulfil the dreams Bapu saw for a country for which he gave his life. (This is a special article by the Prime Minister of India to mark the beginning of the 150th birth anniversary celebrations of Mahatma Gandhi) (This article was originally published on DNA. Read the original article)

PM Narendra Modi's heartfelt tribute to Bapu on Gandhi Jayanti

World`s tallest building Burj Khalifa in Dubai was lit up with the picture and philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi on the occasion of his birth anniversary on October 2.

In a statement, India`s Ambassador to UAE Navdeep Suri said, "I am delighted that we are celebrating one of the tallest personalities the world has seen by screening his image on the iconic building. I am sure that the events that we will organize over the next few months will not only remind all of us about the enduring message of Mahatma Gandhi but also motivate no to put some of his lessons into practice."

He took to Twitter to write, "Such a joy to see the Burj Khalifa lit up with Gandhiji - visuals, text and music in perfect harmony. A big thanks to our friends at Emaar and the great team at @cgidubai for making it happen."The event was organised by the Indian Embassy, Abu Dhabi and Indian Consulate, Dubai along with Emaar Properties.

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Such a joy to see the Burj Khalifa lit up with Gandhiji - visuals, text and music in perfect harmony. A big thanks to our friends at Emaar and the great team at <a href="https://twitter.com/cgidubai?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cgidubai</a> for making it happen. <a href="https://t.co/CWTp06YpOC">pic.twitter.com/CWTp06YpOC</a>
— IndAmbUAE (@navdeepsuri) <a href="https://twitter.com/navdeepsuri/status/1047182116612653056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The Consulate General of India, Dubai also welcomed the admirers of Gandhiji to witness the special LED screening which pays homage to this "apostle of truth, peace, and non-violence" in the world.

Dubbing the event as a "gesture of manifestation of the strong friendly ties between India and UAE", Consul General Vipul appreciated the support of the Emaar and the leadership of UAE for organising the special LED display on Burj Khalifa."Gandhiji`s lofty ideals on world`s tallest building Burj Khalifa on his birth anniversary. Thank you UAE," tweeted the Consulate General of India, Dubai.

A projection show was also held in Indonesia which reflected the ideals that Mahatma Gandhi believed, practiced, lived and also sacrificed his life for.

The Embassy of India in association with Taman Wisaca Candi (TWC) and Regional Government of the Special Province Yogyakarta paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi with an LCD projection at the Prambanan Temple in Yogyakarta on October 2.

On the sidelines of the first India Indonesia Interfaith Dialogue, Minister of State for External Affairs MJ Akbar will deliver a keynote address on Mahatma Gandhi at Yogyakarta at Universitas Gadjah Mada at Faculty of Cultural Sciences on October 3.&nbsp;

World`s tallest building Burj Khalifa in Dubai was lit up with the picture and philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi on the occasion of his birth anniversary on October 2.

World`s tallest building Burj Khalifa in Dubai was lit up with the picture and philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi on the occasion of his birth anniversary on October 2. In a statement, India`s Ambassador to UAE Navdeep Suri said, "I am delighted that we are celebrating one of the tallest personalities the world has seen by screening his image on the iconic building. I am sure that the events that we will organize over the next few months will not only remind all of us about the enduring message of Mahatma Gandhi but also motivate no to put some of his lessons into practice." He took to Twitter to write, "Such a joy to see the Burj Khalifa lit up with Gandhiji - visuals, text and music in perfect harmony. A big thanks to our friends at Emaar and the great team at @cgidubai for making it happen."The event was organised by the Indian Embassy, Abu Dhabi and Indian Consulate, Dubai along with Emaar Properties. Such a joy to see the Burj Khalifa lit up with Gandhiji - visuals, text and music in perfect harmony. A big thanks to our friends at Emaar and the great team at @cgidubai for making it happen. pic.twitter.com/CWTp06YpOC — IndAmbUAE (@navdeepsuri) October 2, 2018 × The Consulate General of India, Dubai also welcomed the admirers of Gandhiji to witness the special LED screening which pays homage to this "apostle of truth, peace, and non-violence" in the world. Dubbing the event as a "gesture of manifestation of the strong friendly ties between India and UAE", Consul General Vipul appreciated the support of the Emaar and the leadership of UAE for organising the special LED display on Burj Khalifa."Gandhiji`s lofty ideals on world`s tallest building Burj Khalifa on his birth anniversary. Thank you UAE," tweeted the Consulate General of India, Dubai. A projection show was also held in Indonesia which reflected the ideals that Mahatma Gandhi believed, practiced, lived and also sacrificed his life for. The Embassy of India in association with Taman Wisaca Candi (TWC) and Regional Government of the Special Province Yogyakarta paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi with an LCD projection at the Prambanan Temple in Yogyakarta on October 2. On the sidelines of the first India Indonesia Interfaith Dialogue, Minister of State for External Affairs MJ Akbar will deliver a keynote address on Mahatma Gandhi at Yogyakarta at Universitas Gadjah Mada at Faculty of Cultural Sciences on October 3.

Burj Khalifa lit up with Bapu's image on Gandhi Jayanti

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