Press Release
Peace March to Commorate Mahatma Gandhis 150th Birth Anniversary
Embassy of India, in collaboration with Turkish authorities, organized a “Peace Walk” at 0800 hours on 2nd October 2018 at Segmenler Park, Cankaya, Ankara to commemorate 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. 2nd October, the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, has been declared as the International Day of Non-Violence by the UN General Assembly. A number of events are planned throughout the year to recall the spirit and relevance of Mahatma Gandhi as part of his 150th birth anniversary celebrations
India’s freedom struggle owes its success to the independence movement led by Mahatma Gandhi, based on non-violence and non-cooperation. His conviction that truth is the ultimate weapon won mass support and revived pride in our heritage and culture. Mahatma Gandhi’s principles and faith in non-violence found many adherents across the globe, including Martin Luther King, Nelson Mandela and many others. It continues to have strong relevance even today and provides a path for conflict resolution that is both attainable and sustainable.
The Chief Guest at the Peace Walk function was H E Mr Efkan Ala, the Head of Turkish-Indian Parliamentary Friendship Group. Mr Ozcan Purcu, the CHP MP of Izmir also graced the occasion. The ceremony was inaugurated by lighting of the lamp by Mr Efkan and Mr Ozcan. Mr Efkan then garlanded the portrait of Mahatma Gandhi. The Peace Walk at Segmenler Park in Ankara also featured release of a special commemorative stamp on Mahatma Gandhi by Mr Efkan. Mahatmna Gandhi’s favourite song ‘Vaishnav Jan to’ written by Gujarati Poet Narsi Mehta and sung by Turkish singer Seher CAGATA was also played in front of the International audience. Ambassadors, diplomats, Turkish community and Indian diaspora paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi by offering flowers. The international community then proceeded on the walk in the park holding placards bearing their favourite Gandhi message. People from all walks of life, all ages and all nationalities joined the march, which was held for the first time in Ankara.
Embassy of India
Ankara
Oct 02, 2018
