Mahatma Gandhis message more important today than ever: PM

Releasing a commemorative postage stamp on the occasion of the 138th birth centenary of Father of Nation Mahatma Gandhi, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today said that Gandhijis message is more important today than ever before.

New Delhi, Oct 2 : Releasing a commemorative postage stamp on the occasion of the 138th birth centenary of Father of Nation Mahatma Gandhi, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today said that Gandhiji's message is more important today than ever before.

"Gandhiji's message is more important today than ever before since nations across the world continue to grapple with the threat of conflict, violence and terrorism," Singh said here.

Extending his gratitude towards the world community for declaring Gandhiji's birthday (October 2) as the International Day of Non-Violence, Singh said, "Every Indian has, year after year, thanked the Almighty on this day for bringing into this world such a noble soul as Mahatma Gandhi."

Talking about the ideas and ideals of Mahatma Gandhi, Dr. Singh said," As long as there is strife and injustice, as long as there is inequality and indignity in the human condition, as long as there is pain and suffering, as long as there is violence and hatred, the ideas and ideals of Mahatma Gandhi will resonate and find followers everywhere."

The Prime Minister also recalled the inspiring words of Albert Einstein, who said about Gandhiji, 'Generations to come will scarce believe that such a one as this ever in flesh and blood walked upon this earth.'

Gandhiji's philosophy has stood the test of time, and I believe will continue to do so, as long as humankind seeks peace and equality of all people, Singh said.

Wherever and whenever injustice is redressed and freedom won through peaceful means, Gandhiji will always be remembered, he added.

Singh went on to say that Gandhiji gave practical shape to his beliefs in a given historical and social context.

"The international community should ensure that generations to come would never forget the eternal message of the Mahatma," he said.

Stating that Gandhiji was a true saint, Dr Singh said, "It was his yearning and his determination to alter the material world he confronted that made him appear saintly to his followers."

ANI