KUALA LUMPUR: The High Commission of India here took to the virtual platform to celebrate the 150th birth anniversary of one of the South Asian nation's son - Mahatma Gandhi.
The occasion, better known as "Gandhi Jayanthi", falls on Oct 2 annually.
This year's event was celebrated here in full compliance to the standard operating procedures (SOPs) due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
"On the eve of Gandhi Jayanti, on Oct 1, the High Commission of India hosted online "Gandhi Katha" by Dr. Shobhana Radhakrishna, the globally renowned Gandhian and Chief Functionary of Gandhian Forum of Ethical Corporate Governance (GFECG), New Delhi, India, on its social media platform.
"On Oct 2, the virtual celebrations began with the rendition of bhajan by Mrs Visalakshi Nityanand, Carnatic Vocal Teacher, Netaji Subash Chandra Bose Indian Cultural Centre and her team. Following the Gandhi Bhajan, a fascinating video based on Gandhiji's quotes was performed in the form of story by the children of the members of the Bharat Club," said a statement from the Indian High Commissioner.
The Indian High Commissioner to Malaysia Mridul Kumar also shared his thoughts on the occasion.
In his remarks, he underscored the relevance of Gandhi's principles and ideals of simplicity, harmony with nature and self-awareness, especially in the context of the global pandemic.
He also highlighted Gandhi's vision of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – that is, the whole world is one single family, is an aspiration for a globalised, interconnected world, while respecting and preserving diversity and promoting tolerance.
In his concluding remarks, High Commissioner earnestly advised people to follow the ideals of Gandhi to make the world a happier, peaceful and prosperous place.
The programme also included presentation of Kathak dance repertoire, highlighting the teachings of Gandhi, by the artists of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Indian Cultural Centre (NSCBICC), Kuala Lumpur.
In addition, a video demonstrating Yoga Asanas by Shri Khemchand Gupta, yoga teacher and his students is also available on High Commission website for viewing.
To mark the occasion, Global Indian International School, Kuala Lumpur organised a painting competition for its students, providing children the opportunity to reflect upon the life, ideals and teachings of Gandhiji. A short video of the painting competition is available on the website.
A digital exhibition on the life and times of Mahatma Gandhi is also available on the website of the High Commission of India.
The proceedings of the online celebrations and cultural programmes are available on the official website of the High Commission of India.