Photo exhibition marks Gandhi’s birthday

KANDY: The Indian High Commission held a photographic exhibition on Mahatma Gandhi at Queen’s Hotel, Kandy from October 2 to 4 to mark Mahatma Gandhi’s birthday.

The United Nations Organisation this year unanimously adopted a resolution that Mahatma Gandhi’s birthday, October 2, would be commemorated as the ‘International Day of Peace and Non-Violence’.

In keeping with the Mahatma’s precepts and teachings, a simple inauguration ceremony consisting of the traditional lighting of the oil lamp by religious leaders and singing of a few of Gandhi’s favourite hymns was held at the opening.

Religious leaders who graced the occasion were Ven. Udugama Buddharakkithabhidhana Thera, Chief Incumbent of the Asgiriya Chapter, Ven. Niyangoda Vijithasiri Anunayake Thera of the Malwatta Chapter; Swami Sarvarupananda of Ramakrishna Mission, Colombo; Rt. Rev. Dr. Vianney Fernando, Bishop of Kandy; Moulavi Kuwaildeen and Moulavi Salahudeen of Kandy; Asgiri Maha Parivenadhipathi Ven. Narampanawe Ananda Thera, and Diyawadana Nilame Nilanga Dela Bandara.

Over 300 photographs and replicas of Gandhi’s personal belongings, like slippers, watch andcharkha were on display. The exhibition has evoked tremendous response particularly among the youth and schoolchildren.