Gandhi Jayanti – 02 October 2025
Remarks by Ambassador 

Dear dignitaries, distinguished guests, and dear friends,
Namaste.

It is a profound honour to gather here this morning at the Mahatma Gandhi Statue in Astana to observe the International non-violence day on the 156th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the Apostle of Peace, Truth, and Non-Violence. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Government of Kazakhstan, the city authorities of Astana, and to all of you present here for joining us in paying tribute to a personality whose life and message remain relevant for all time to come.

Gandhi’s Eternal Message

Mahatma Gandhi was not only the Father of the Indian Nation but also a moral compass for humanity. His greatness lay not just in what he preached, but in how he lived those values. As he himself said, “My life is my message.”

His principles—truth, non-violence, inter-faith harmony, simplicity, and compassion—are not confined to the pages of history. They remain guiding lights in our turbulent times especially today. Gandhiji taught us that “In a gentle way, you can shake the world.” Indeed, through non-violent resistance, he shook the foundations of one of the mightiest empires and won freedom for millions without raising a weapon.

Gandhi’s Relevance Today

Gandhiji’s vision resonates across generations. He reminded us that “The future depends on what we do today.” In an age where societies grapple with conflicts, climate change, and inequality, Gandhi’s call for truth, self-restraint, and harmony is more relevant than ever. His principle of Sarvodaya—the welfare of all—encourages us to build a just and inclusive society.

His message of sustainable living is echoed in today’s global movements for environmental protection. He once said, “The world has enough for everyone’s need, but not enough for the greed of a man.” This timeless warning is one of the most urgent lessons for humanity today.

Gandhi in Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan, too, has honoured this universal figure. From the statue in Almaty since 2003 to this very statue in Astana inaugurated with the support of the Kazakh Government, Gandhi’s presence here reflects the deep bonds of friendship between India and Kazakhstan. The Mahatma Gandhi Centre of Indian Studies at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, the Mahatma Gandhi School and Museum in Almaty, and streets named after him are symbols of how his message transcends borders and cultures.

Conclusion

Friends, Gandhiji once remarks, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” As we pay our floral tributes today, let us also renew our commitment to serve humanity, to build peace, and to promote understanding across nations and peoples.

On behalf of the Embassy of India, I once again thank the Government of Kazakhstan, the city of Astana, the dignitaries, members of the Indian community, and our Kazakh friends for joining us in this celebration.

May Gandhiji’s eternal light continue to inspire us all.

Thank you. Dhanyavaad. Rahmet.

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