UN chief Ban Ki-moon today called on people across the world to be inspired by the courage of Mahatma Gandhi and his resonant legacy of non-violence to peacefully oppose oppression, injustice and hatred.
In his message for the International Day of Non-Violence, which is also the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, Ban said, on this day "I call on global citizens everywhere to be inspired by the courage of people like Mahatma Gandhi."
"Gandhi showed the power of peacefully opposing oppression, injustice and hatred. His example has inspired many other history-makers such as Martin Luther King, Jr, Vaclav Havel, Rigoberta Menchu Tum and Nelson Mandela."
"Today we celebrate the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi and his resonant legacy of non-violence," the UN Secretary General said in a statement.
He said one needs courage to stand up to those who use violence to enforce their will or beliefs.
"It requires resolve to stand against injustice, discrimination and brutality and to demand respect for diversity and fundamental human rights," he said, adding that non-violence needs leaders backed by an army of brave people prepared to demand peace, freedom and fairness.
"The United Nations stands for the peaceful resolution of disputes and the end to all forms of violence, whether State-sponsored or embedded in culture and practice, such as the violence and intimidation women and girls endure in all regions.
"Ending such violence can start with each of us - in homes, schools and workplaces. Violence can be contagious, but so can peaceful dialogue," he said and asked people to "turn your back to division and hatred; stand up for what is right and just."
"Work with your fellow women and men for a world of lasting justice, peace and prosperity for all," he said.
Gandhi Jayanti celebrated in UK
Mahatma Gandhi's 144th birth anniversary was marked with Bhajans and Vedic prayers at his iconic statue at Tavistock Square in London today. The Indian High Commission organised the event that was attended by the Deputy Mayor of Camden, Councillor Lazarro Pietragnoli, British Indian MP Virendra Sharma and other senior representatives from Indian organisations based in Britain.
"This is an important occasion to reflect on the life and teachings of the Father of our Nation. The universality of his ideas and ideals are an inspiration even today. Let us try and live by those principles and ideals," said Virander Paul, the acting High Commissioner of India in the UK. Floral tributes to the Mahatma were followed by a performance of his favourite bhajans - Vaishnava Jan and Raghupati Raghav - by young members of the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Centre in the UK.
"Gandhi is the most important and iconic figure of the 20th century and even in a country like Italy, where I was born, he is greatly respected and his teachings are valid even today," said Pietragnoli. "This statue of Gandhi, which reflects his thinking and teaching pose, has become a true sign of peace," he added.
