The Indian Embassy in Mali recently organized a marathon to commemorate the International Day of Non-Violence, which is celebrated on October 2nd, the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi. The marathon, which was held in Bamako, was attended by over 60 participants, including the Indian Ambassador to Mali, Dr. N. Nandakumar, and the President of the Malian National Youth Council, Sory Ibrahima Cissé. The participants wore T-shirts with Gandhi's image and covered a distance of approximately 8 kilometers.
The marathon was flagged off from the Indian Embassy's premises, located near the Pont des Martyrs, and ended at the residence of the Indian Ambassador in Magnabougou Faso Kanou. The event was secured by elements of the Malian security forces. Dr. N. Nandakumar, in his address at the end of the marathon, highlighted the significance of Gandhi's philosophy of non-violence and its relevance in today's world, where violence and extremism are on the rise.
Dr. Nandakumar noted that it has been about ten years since the United Nations instituted October 2nd as the International Day of Non-Violence, in honor of Gandhi's birth anniversary. He recalled Gandhi's struggle for India's independence, which was achieved through non-violent means. The Ambassador emphasized that Gandhi's values, including cleanliness, sustainable living, and peace, are essential for the well-being of humanity.
The Indian Ambassador stressed that non-violence is the only instrument that can bring about lasting peace in the world. He encouraged the participants to incorporate Gandhi's values into their daily lives. The event was also attended by members of the "Sportival" association, which promotes sports and physical activity in Mali.
Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated on January 30, 1948, in New Delhi. His legacy continues to inspire people around the world, including in Mali. The International Day of Non-Violence is an opportunity for nations to come together and promote peaceful coexistence.
The event was well-received by the participants, who appreciated the initiative of the Indian Embassy in promoting Gandhi's values. The Malian government has also been actively promoting peaceful coexistence and stability in the country, which has faced security challenges in recent years.
The celebration of the International Day of Non-Violence in Mali is a testament to the strong bilateral relations between Mali and India. The two countries have been cooperating in various fields, including development, security, and culture.
Key points
- The Indian Embassy in Mali organized a marathon to mark the International Day of Non-Violence, promoting Mahatma Gandhi's values of non-violence and peaceful coexistence.
