There are a limited number of individuals in the global population who have made a lasting impact on world history and influenced the lives of subsequent generations in various ways. Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, commonly known as Mahatma Gandhi, was a significant individual who exerted a profound influence on numerous prominent figures through his unparalleled principle of ‘simplicity in lifestyle and profound intellectual pursuits’. In order to honor this advocate of peace and proponent of non-violence, Aligarh Muslim University organized a commemorative event on Gandhi Jayanti, which marked the 154th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi’s birth, at the Maulana Azad (MA) Library.
In his address to a gathering of teachers, students, and staff at the Cultural Hall of MA Library, the Vice Chancellor of AMU, Prof Mohammad Gulrez, asserted that Mahatma Gandhi holds a prominent position among the most influential global leaders. Prof Gulrez highlighted that Gandhi’s profound impact extended to inspiring notable figures such as Martin Luther King Jr., His Holiness Dalai Lama, James Beve, James Lawson, Nelson Mandela, Barack Obama, and Albert Einstein, among numerous others.
It has been asserted that Winston Churchill, upon observing the triumph of the non-violent movement, was compelled to recognize his mistake in referring to Gandhi Ji as a ‘naked Fakeer’.
The Vice Chancellor underscored the significant impact of India’s independence movement on the process of decolonization around the globe, highlighting the widespread influence of Gandhi’s beliefs. The individual advocated for the global adoption of Gandhi Ji’s principles, which encompassed compassion, interfaith peace, and the integration of intellectual and spiritual aspects.
Moreover, he emphasized Mahatma Gandhi’s intimate affiliation with Aligarh Muslim University (AMU). The speaker recalled that Mahatma Gandhi was bestowed with the distinction of being the inaugural “Life-Member of the Aligarh Muslim University Students Union” in the year 1920, so highlighting his exceptional position within the annals of the institution’s past.
Professor Gulrez thereafter administered an oath to diligently strive towards the preservation and enhancement of the nation’s freedom and integrity. Additionally, he assumed the role of leading the teachers, students, and non-teaching staff of AMU in a ceremonial commitment to cleanliness, known as the ‘Swachchta Shapath’. During this event, he emphasized that Mahatma Gandhi envisioned a nation that is both developed and clean.
In the morning, the Vice Chancellor officially commenced an exhibition featuring a collection of uncommon books and documents, which were carefully arranged in display cases and pedestals. Additionally, the exhibition showcased a selection of rare glossy and matte images, depicting various aspects of Mahatma Gandhi’s life, including his early years, his career as a lawyer and champion of civil rights, his involvement in the Indian freedom movement, and his activities at Sabarmati Ashram. The exhibition, spanning a duration of two days, will be accessible to visitors from 9 am to 5 pm, and will culminate on October 3rd.
The presence of Mr. Mohammad Imran (IPS), the Registrar of AMU, was also noted during the event.
According to Professor Mohibul Haque from the Department of Political Science, the significance of Gandhi Ji is currently being recognized more intensely, particularly in a time when mankind is confronted with numerous challenges and society is in need of a leader who can provide solutions for widespread animosity and repugnance based on various justifications.
According to his statement, Gandhi Ji frequently experienced a sense of helplessness while witnessing the global condition of unrest, which was attributed to the divergence of values.
Professor Vibha Sharma from the Department of English underscored the lifelong commitment of Gandhi Ji to the advocacy of Ahimsa and truth. Gandhi Ji firmly believed in the efficacy of non-violence, compassion, and love as powerful means to achieve any objective in the world.
According to the speaker, Mahatma Gandhi was a remarkable individual who possessed a profound sense of compassion, extending even to those who opposed his principles. His ultimate goal was to achieve lasting peace within society through the application of non-violent methods.
Two students from AMU, namely Mohammad Ali (BA II Year) and Khan Amna Asim (BA Final), presented lectures discussing Mahatma Gandhi’s exploration of truth and the continued relevance of his non-violence principles in the contemporary world.
The programme was conducted by Professor Faiza Abbasi, who serves as the Director of UGC-HRDC.
Prof Nishat Fatima, the University Librarian, expressed gratitude towards the guests and attendees. She emphasized the notable aspects of the exhibition, specifically mentioning the inclusion of several handwritten letters by Mahatma Gandhi. Notably, one of these letters, dated July 29, 1942, was addressed to Abdul Bari, an alumnus of AMU. Additionally, another letter written by Gandhi on January 7, 1937, to the General Secretary of the AMU Student Union, holds particular significance as a highlight of the exhibition.
According to her statement, Mahatma Gandhi had a distinct association with Aligarh Muslim University, having paid a visit to the institution in the year 1920.
Several educational institutions, including NSS AMU Unit, Ahmadi School for the Visually Challenged, Senior Secondary School-Girls, Sayyid Hamid Senior Secondary School, AMU ABK High School (Boys and Girls), AMU Girls School, Abdullah School, AMU City Girls High School, RMPS AMU City School, and STS School, observed the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti by organizing distinctive events and activities.
