Describing Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi as an apostle of active non-violence, Cuttack Lok Sabha MP Dr. Bhartruhari Mahtab called upon the public to preserve the legacy and historical sanctity of Swaraj Ashram a pivotal hub of India’s freedom struggle so that future generations remain connected to this glorious chapter of history. Dr. Mahtab was addressing the state-level Gandhi Jayanti celebrations held today at the historic Swaraj Ashram as the Chief Guest. The event was organized by the Deputy Director of Information and Public Relations (Central Range).
Attending as Guests of Honour, Cuttack Sadar MLA Prakash Chandra Sethi and Barabati-Cuttack MLA Er. Sofia Firdous emphasized that Mahatma Gandhi’s teachings remain profoundly relevant today, continuing to guide the world toward global peace. Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC) Mayor Subash Chandra Singh urged everyone to imbibe Gandhiji’s principles and values in their daily lives to foster peace, brotherhood, cleanliness, and harmony in society. Former MLA Prabhat Kumar Tripathi remarked that Gandhiji’s words should be followed strictly like a doctor’s prescription. Keynote Speaker Bhagabat Shukla highlighted that the Gandhian era was defined by sacrifice, stating that the true realization of Gandhi’s vision is only possible if society embraces selflessness over consumerism. He added that during his eight visits to Odisha, Mahatma Gandhi was deeply inspired by the voices and ideals of Utkal Gourav Madhusudan Das, Utkalmani Gopabandhu Das, Pandit Nilakantha Das, and Dr. Harekrushna Mahtab. The proceedings commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp and garlanding to the portraits of Mahatma Gandhi and former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri. Multi-faith prayers were offered, with Lokanath Dixit reading from the Bhagavad Gita, Rev. Prabhat Bag from the Holy Bible, and Sheikh Hakim from the Holy Quran. Deputy Director of I&PR (Central Range) Ashutosh Paikray delivered the welcome address and conducted the meeting, while District Information and Public Relations Officer (DIPRO) Swagatika Behera presented the vote of thanks. Social workers and descendents of freedom fighters were felicitated on the occasion. Rajya Sabha MP Debashish Samantaray also paid garlanded at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi prior to the function. As part of the cultural program, artists from Kalavati Kala Niketan performed Mahatma Gandhi’s favorite hymn, “Vaishnava Jana To,” while students from Reba Devi Shobhaniya Shikshashram presented a cultural act themed on Gandhian messages. Additionally, a handloom garment exhibition was organized on the Swaraj Ashram premises by Mahalaxmi Tantubaya Sahayoga Samiti Limited.
GANDHIJI WAS THE APOSTLE OF ACTIVE NON-VIOLENCE: MP DR. BHARTRUHARI MAHATAB
