Remembering a great leader

With the United Nations unanimously adopting a resolution that Mahatma Gandhi's birthday, October 2, would be commemorated as the "International Day of Peace and Non-Violence", the Indian High Commission of India held a photographic exhibition in memory of the late leader at Queen's Hotel from October 2 to 4. .

In keeping with the Mahatma's precepts and teachings, a simple inauguration ceremony consisting of the traditional lighting of the oil lamp by religious leaders and singing of a few of Gandhiji's favourite hymns was held. The religious leaders who graced the occasion were Ven. Udugama Buddharakkithabhidhana Thero, Chief Incumbent of the Asgiriya Chapter, Ven. Niyangoda Vijithasiri Anunayaka Thero of the Malwatta Chapter, Swami Sarvarupananda of Ramakrishna Mission, Colombo, Rt. Rev. Dr. Vianney Fernando, Bishop of Kandy, Moulavi Kuwaildeen and Moulavi Salahudeen of Kandy, Asgiri Maha Parivenadhipathi Ven Narampanawe Ananda Thero and Diyawadana Nilame, Nilanga Dela Bandara.

Over 300 photographs and replicas of Gandhiji's personal belongings, his slippers, watch, charkha, etc., were on display. The exhibition drew an enthusiastic response particularly amongst young people and schoolchildren.