Atlanta Honors Gandhi and Shastri on International Day of Non-Violence
On October 2, the Atlanta community gathered for a moving tribute to Mahatma Gandhi and Lal Bahadur Shastri, India’s second Prime Minister, in observance of the United Nations-designated International Day of Non-Violence. The event took place at the Mahatma Gandhi statue at the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site—a symbolic location honoring the shared values of peace, justice, and non-violence between two of the 20th century’s most influential leaders.
[Left] Shiv Aggarwal paying tributes
Organized by the Gandhi Foundation USA (GFUSA) in collaboration with the Consulate General of India in Atlanta, the commemoration drew a diverse group of community members, leaders, and consular officials. Attendees paid floral tributes to Gandhi’s statue, celebrating his birthday and his enduring legacy of peace, service, and humility.
The Atlanta community gathered at the Mahatma Gandhi statue at the Martin Luther King Junior National Historic Site on the International Day of Non Violence.
The ceremony began with opening remarks by GFUSA Chairman Subash Razdan, who shared the history behind the statue’s installation in 1998, following years of effort and support from Mayor Jackson and the King family. He also noted the establishment of the Gandhi Room museum in Freedom Hall in 1987. The statue, donated by the ICCR and the Embassy of India, stands at the park’s entrance as a symbol of friendship and homage, attracting over a million visitors annually.
Consul General Ramesh Babu Lakshmanan highlighted the deep connection between Gandhi and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., emphasizing the relevance of Gandhi’s teachings in today’s world, still grappling with violence and division.
[Left] CGI and consulate staff in front of Gandhi bust after paying tributes to Gandhi
Speeches from community leaders and academics explored Gandhi’s philosophy of Ahimsa (non-violence) and Satyagraha (truth-force), and Shastri’s values of integrity and simplicity. Gregory A. McPherson, Choir Director at Delaware State University, shared plans for a future symphony dedicated to Gandhi’s legacy. Dilip Mehra of the Heartfulness organization urged attendees to implement Gandhi’s teachings in daily life, encouraging daily prayers for universal love and peace.
Viren Mayani of GFUSA eloquently expressed the organization’s selfless mission, rooted in the spirit of American independence and inspired by Gandhi and King. He recalled Coretta Scott King’s generosity in honoring Gandhi with a dedicated room at The King Center and emphasized the importance of respecting those who celebrate Gandhi Jayanti and Dr. King’s birthday. “These are not just commemorations—they are reminders to keep their flame alive,” he said.
[Left] Sandy MCQueen garlanding the statue
The celebration concluded with renditions of Gandhi’s favorite bhajans, “Vaishnav Jan To Tene Re Kahiye” and “Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram,” performed by composer Tejas Chavan. A birthday cake was then cut by Consul General Lakshmanan and special guests, including those who share a birthday with the Mahatma.
The day’s events commemorated Gandhi’s 156th birth anniversary and Shastri’s 121st, reinforcing Atlanta’s commitment to peace, justice, and intercultural harmony. Attendees were encouraged to integrate Gandhi’s teachings into everyday life—not just remember them once a year.
Earlier that morning, the Indian Consulate in Atlanta, led by Consul General Lakshmanan, held a special tribute at the Gandhi bust on consulate grounds.
—Ravi R Ponangi
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