Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi, who stayed firmly rooted to the cause of non violent movement and led India to its independence from the British Raj, the Netherlands will have celebratory functions to mark Gandhi's birth anniversary next month. 'Follow the Mahatma' is a unique campaign that will be launched by the Indian embassy and the Indian community in the Netherlands on October 1 and 2, 2017.
Several prominent institutions, organisations and individuals advocating non-violence have extended their support to the cause.
The first ever 'Gandhi March' will be held starting from the Peace Palace to the Grote Kerk in the Hague. People of all nationalities will join the march which is the first such large scale event in the country.
The campaign also intends to spread the message of non violence, tolerance and peace to schoolchildren in the Netherlands, and have tied up with schools for the same. People across the country have been invited to mark the day with themes relating to non violence and Gandhi and also participate on the special social media campaign.
At the Grote Kerk in the Hague, the bicycle personally used by Gandhi will be on display for public viewing. Cycling is considered an integral part of Dutch culture, and keeping this in mind, the Gandhi Memorial trust of India has sent the bicycle as a special gesture. It is currently part of an exhibition on Gandhi, King and Mandela at the Nieuwe Kerk, Amsterdam.
An excerpt of an opera titled Satyagraha, composed by renowned musician Philip Glass will be performed at the Grote Kerk by the Korzo Theatre. Indian author Pramod Kapoor will launch his new book in Dutch titled Gandhi: An Illustrated Biography on the occasion. Mr. Theo Henrar, chairman of board of Tata Steel Europe, Prof Vinod Subramaniam, Rector Magnificus, VU University Amsterdam, former MPs R. Ramlal and Tanja Jadnanansing are part of the organising committee supervising the activities.
The Netherlands reflects Gandhi's views and beliefs on truth, non violence and peace as is evident by the number of streets named after him and his statues in a few cities in the country. The United Nations marks Gandhi's birthday, October 2, as the International Day of Non Violence. His life and message directly influenced the thought and actions of leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr and Nelson Mandela.
