Chattogram:India's missions in Bangladesh marked the 157th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi with various activities, including a beach-cleaning drive in Chattogram, reflecting his lasting messages of peace, non-violence, harmony, and service.
The Indian High Commission in Dhaka and the Assistant High Commissions in Khulna, Chattogram, Sylhet and Rajshahi observed Gandhi Jayanti under the #SevaPakhwada2026 initiative.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the Assistant High Commission of India in Chattogram organized the beach-cleaning event at Patenga Sea Beach on Thursday, aligning with the 'Swachhata Hi Seva' campaign under the theme 'Swachhata Mein Sahbhag, Swachha Bharat, Vikasit Bharat.'
The event saw participation from the Assistant High Commissioner, officers, staff members of the mission, and around 100 students from CIDER International School. Participants collected plastic, polythene, and other waste materials, which were then disposed of at designated spots. T-shirts from the 'Swachhata Hi Seva' campaign were distributed to participants, with support from the Chattogram Metropolitan Police and Tourist Police. The clean-up was conducted from 9 am to 11 am on October 1.
Meanwhile, the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi, acknowledging the timelessness of his values, which continue to inspire generations. Gandhi's philosophy emphasized empathy towards nature and people, as well as promoting peace, harmony, and tolerance.
On the eve of Gandhi Jayanti, Indian President Droupadi Murmu also paid tribute, highlighting Gandhi's global respect and the increasing relevance of his messages of peace and non-violence amid global conflicts. She emphasized that India is working towards becoming 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047, focusing on empathy and inclusion to ensure no citizen is left behind, reflecting Gandhi's principle of 'Sarvodaya.'
Gandhi, born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar, Gujarat, is renowned for his non-violent philosophy and his pivotal role in India's independence movement.