Special Ceremony on the Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and Lal Bahadur Shastri held at IIAS Shimla

A special ceremony was organized today at the Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS), Rashtrapati Nivas, Shimla on the occasion of the 156th birth anniversary of the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, and the birth anniversary of India’s second Prime Minister, Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri. The programme focused on the life and philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi, with detailed deliberations on the contemporary relevance of his thoughts and ideals.

The ceremony commenced with a welcome address in which Gandhi’s principles of truth and non-violence were described as humanity’s greatest legacy. It was recalled that Gandhi firmly believed “there is nothing greater than truth” and that “non-violence is the supreme virtue.” His entire life not only symbolized India’s leadership in the freedom struggle but also embodied the priceless values of social harmony, self-reliance, and moral courage.

On this occasion, Professor Uma Anantani, Fellow of the Institute, reflected upon the various dimensions of Mahatma Gandhi’s ideas. She emphasized that Gandhi attached equal importance to moral awakening and social equality alongside political independence.

This was followed by the keynote address delivered by Professor Brijendra Pandey, Senior Fellow of the Institute. He stated that Gandhi’s Satyagraha was not merely a political instrument but a symbol of inner strength and the power of faith. Stressing the global relevance of Gandhi, Professor Pandey observed that across the world, Gandhi continues to be regarded as the epitome of truth, non-violence, and peace. He also added that Lal Bahadur Shastri imbibed Gandhi’s teachings and exemplified simplicity, integrity, and patriotism.

In his presidential address, Professor Himanshu Kumar Chaturvedi, Director of the Institute, said that the life of Mahatma Gandhi remains a perennial source of inspiration. Gandhi’s philosophy, he remarked, was not confined to the freedom struggle but continues to provide answers to the social challenges of the present age. “Gandhi teaches us that true nation-building is possible not merely through a change of power, but through moral upliftment,” he stated. Professor Chaturvedi further highlighted that adopting Gandhi’s ideals is the truest tribute to him. He underscored the continued relevance of Gandhi’s concepts of Gram Swaraj, self-reliance, and cleanliness in today’s context.

The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by the Secretary of the Institute, Shri Mehr Chand Negi. The programme was conducted by Public Relations Officer, Shri Akhilesh Pathak. On this occasion, the Fellows, Associates, officers, and staff members of the Institute participated.