'Man of Peace' honoured at Laurentian University

Times of social and economic turmoil can mean the words of the world's past great leaders are even more relevant, said organizers of a tribute to India's Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi Friday evening.

Oct. 2 was the 140th anniversary of the birth of Gandhi, who is also known as Mahatma (Great Soul). Members of the India-Canada Association gathered at Laurentian University's main library, where a bust of Gandhi is displayed.

“We are here to celebrate Mahatma's birthday because of his values. Though he was born in 1869, his values of peace and non-violence are attractive world-wide,” said Narinder Sokhal, president of the association.

A garland was put around the bust by Sokhal and Mike Slawney, vice-president of the Sudbury Multicultural Folk Arts Association.

“The garland represents the respect we have for him. It is like a bouquet of flowers,” said Pravat Nalini Mishra.

Nirijan Mishra said the bust of Gandhi was brought to the university from India in November 2000.

“We wanted to implant the notion of peace here.”

When Gandhi died in 1948, many wanted to follow his ideals but wars and human strife has continued, said Mishra.

“We need to think of non-violence in this community. Let us have everlasting peace here.”

Dr. Rayudu Koka, past president of the Sudbury Multicultural Folk Arts Association, said Gandhi's example reminds us of how peace can conquer the world.

“He said an eye for an eye makes the whole world blind,” said Koka. He noted that Greater Sudbury is not a violent community.

“Tensions can get high, as with this strike between Vale Inco and Local 6500. I hope they follow the principles Gandhi set down for resolving conflicts. Talking is important. Each has to give and take. It takes both parties to come to a solution.”