Cuttack, 02 October (H.S.): Describing Mahatma Gandhi as an apostle of active non-violence, Cuttack Lok Sabha MP Dr. Bhartruhari Mahtab on Friday called for preserving the historical significance and heritage of Swaraj Ashram, a prominent centre of Odisha’s freedom movement, so that future generations remain connected with the country’s struggle for independence.

Dr. Mahtab was speaking as the Chief Guest at the state-level Gandhi Jayanti celebrations held at the historic Swaraj Ashram in Cuttack. The programme was organised by the Deputy Director of Information and Public Relations (Central Range).

Cuttack Sadar MLA Prakash Chandra Sethi and Barabati-Cuttack MLA Er. Sofia Firdous, who attended the programme as Guests of Honour, said that Gandhi’s teachings continue to remain relevant and have the potential to guide society towards peace and harmony.

Cuttack Municipal Corporation Mayor Subash Chandra Singh urged people to incorporate Gandhiji’s principles and values into their daily lives to promote peace, brotherhood, cleanliness and social harmony.

Former MLA Prabhat Kumar Tripathi said Gandhiji’s words should be followed with the same discipline and commitment with which a patient follows a doctor’s prescription.

Delivering the keynote address, Bhagabat Shukla said the Gandhian era was marked by sacrifice and selflessness. He observed that Gandhi’s vision could be realised only when society gives greater importance to selflessness over consumerism.

Shukla further noted that during his eight visits to Odisha, Mahatma Gandhi was deeply influenced by the thoughts and ideals of prominent personalities of Odisha, including Utkal Gourav Madhusudan Das, Utkalmani Gopabandhu Das, Pandit Nilakantha Das and Dr. Harekrushna Mahtab.

The programme began with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp and the garlanding of portraits of Mahatma Gandhi and former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri. A multi-faith prayer was also organised, with Lokanath Dixit reciting verses from the Bhagavad Gita, Rev. Prabhat Bag reading from the Holy Bible and Sheikh Hakim reciting verses from the Holy Quran.

Deputy Director of Information and Public Relations (Central Range) Ashutosh Paikray delivered the welcome address and conducted the proceedings, while District Information and Public Relations Officer (DIPRO) Swagatika Behera proposed the vote of thanks.

On the occasion, social workers and descendants of freedom fighters were felicitated for their contributions. Rajya Sabha MP Debashish Samantaray also paid floral tribute at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi before the commencement of the programme.

As part of the cultural programme, artists from Kalavati Kala Niketan presented Mahatma Gandhi’s favourite hymn, Vaishnava Jana To. Students of Reba Devi Shobhaniya Shikshashram staged a cultural presentation based on Gandhian values and messages.

A handloom garment exhibition was also organised on the premises of Swaraj Ashram by Mahalaxmi Tantubaya Sahayoga Samiti Limited, showcasing traditional handloom products and craftsmanshi

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda