150th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi’s birth marked in Hanoi

The Embassy of India in Hanoi held a special commemorative function on October 2 to celebrate the 150th birth anniversary of Indian national hero Mahatma Gandhi (1869-1948).

The Commemorative Stamps on Mahatma Gandhi presented to a delegate at the event (Photo: The Indian Embassy in Hanoi)
The Commemorative Stamps on Mahatma Gandhi presented to a delegate at the event (Photo: The Indian Embassy in Hanoi)

Mahatma Gandhi, full name Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, is the “Father of the Nation” that led the Indian independence movement against the British colonial rule by adhering to the principles of Truth (Satya) and Non-violence (Ahimsa) that completely transformed the political thought in the 20th century. Mahatma Gandhi has become a universal figure and considered an apostle of peace and non-violence, according to the Indian Embassy.

The event was attended by Vice President of the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences Dang Nguyen Anh and Most Venerable Thich Duc Thien, Vice Chairman and Secretary General of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha.

Most Venerable Thich Duc Thien delivered a speech entitled ‘Satya Vaarta’ (Message of Truth) narrating how the life and message of Gandhi has influenced him.

“My first impression about Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi’s personality is that he is a simple man. Gandhi stripped himself of all worldly goods and vowed to live a simple life, often fasting in his struggle for peace and Indian independence from British rule. Gandhi amazed his disciples and bedevilled his opponents by doing their penance for them," said Most Venerable Thich Duc Thien.

At the event, seven Commemorative Stamps on Mahatma Gandhi, designed and issued by the Indian Department of Posts, were released and presented to the Vietnamese dignitaries.

This year, India has been organising various activities to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi’s birth. In late August, External Affairs Minister of India Sushma Swaraj unveiled the Bust of Mahatma Gandhi in the courtyard of the Indian Embassy in Hanoi.