Today, 2 October 2024, is the 155th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, born on October 2, 1869 in Porbandar, was a social activist, leader and philosopher and the foremost icon of peace and justice in the world. It is in his honour that 2nd October is celebrated as Gandhi Jayanti every year. Albert Einstein had said on Mahatma Gandhi “Generations to come will scarce believe that such a one as this ever in flesh and blood walked upon this earth”.
Referred to as “the great soul” or “Mahatma,” Gandhi visited Myanmar three times: in 1902, 1915 and 1929. He had great affection and concern for the people of Myanmar. He was deeply influenced by the teachings of Lord Buddha. Gandhi's integration of Buddhist principles shaped his vision for a just society based on ‘Dharma’.
Speaking at a public meeting at Mahabandoola Park on 8th March, 1929 he had shared the message of “Swaraj” or “self-rule”, against British colonial rule. But his message also provided a political tool that empowered people of diverse communities to peacefully, and justly, deliberate on different issues. In fighting for ‘Swaraj,’ he also fought for the idea of a nation that envisions a society where higher goals of ‘Dhamma’ are cherished. He shared that the path to true liberation is rooted in dialogue, social reform, and in the pursuit of the ultimate goal: to uplift the poor and provide them a life of dignity. In this pursuit, Mahatma Gandhi had once said “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”
As we all know, India is a land of great diversity, with a rich tapestry of cultures, languages, and traditions. It is a country where diverse religions, ethnicities, caste, languages — and many others — coexist and flourish. There is no other example of the immense scale and size of diversity, of language, culture and religion, as India, yet moving forward cohesively and purposefully, as the largest democracy and fastest growing major economy of the world. India has forged its own path, under the guidance of leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, who recognized and accepted that true happiness exists in celebrating this diversity. It is the only way to ensure harmony in a diverse society. Pluralism should not merely be a backdrop, it should be the very essence of identity.
Just as family members look out for one another, the people of India and Myanmar have always stood firmly by and steadfast with each other as kith and kin. It is in times of crisis that such bonds and values are truly tested. Most recently, India was the first responder, in the form of “Operation Sadbhav” after flash floods caused by Typhoon Yagi devastated vast regions and states of Myanmar. 53 tonnes of aid material was handed over by India to the Myanmar authorities within two days of the call for assistance. In past cases of natural disasters like Cyclone Nargis, Cyclone Mocha and COVID-19 pandemic, India had helped with a readiness that reflects a genuine concern for its Myanmar brothers and sisters, without any expectations or setting any conditions in return. India has shown time and again that it is Myanmar’s friend in need and a friend indeed.
Mahatma Gandhi had once said: “My life is my message”. In today’s complex world, the principles embodied by Gandhi are not just historical anecdotes; they can be an essential guide for our collective future. We must navigate our country’s ship with the same wisdom, same resolve and same compassion. Gandhi’s principles should guide us to rise above narrow differences and act now, to bring peace and harmony for the collective benefit for the people of Myanmar.
( This article was contributed by Embassy of India in Yangon, Myanmar)
