Santirbazar (Tripura), October 2: Mahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary was observed at Unity Park in Santirbazar subdivision of Tripura on Thursday, with officials, elected representatives and residents paying floral tributes to the Father of the Nation.
The programme was jointly organised by the Santirbazar Municipal Council, Bokafa Block Administration, Sub-Divisional Office and the Department of Information and Cultural Affairs.
The programme commenced at around 9 am with floral tributes being offered at the bust of Mahatma Gandhi at Unity Park, situated adjacent to the office of the Sub-Divisional Magistrate.
Municipal Council Chairman Sapna Baidya inaugurated the programme by offering a garland at Gandhi’s bust. She also offered water to trees in the park as part of the commemorative programme.
Tributes were also paid to the bust of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, with participants recalling the contributions of the country’s freedom fighters and leaders in the struggle for independence.
Municipal Council Vice-Chairman Satyabrata Saha, social worker Debashish Bhowmik, Deputy Chief Executive Officer Pabitra Das and Sports and Cultural Standing Committee president Nepal Chandra Das were among those present.
Several other officials, elected representatives and local residents also attended the programme.
Speakers recalled Gandhi’s contribution to the freedom movement and highlighted his principles of truth, non-violence and service to humanity.
They said Gandhi’s teachings continue to remain relevant, particularly his emphasis on simplicity, self-reliance, moral courage and peaceful resolution of differences.
The speakers called upon people to uphold these values in their personal and social lives and urged the younger generation to learn from Gandhi’s philosophy.
They also stressed the importance of tolerance, discipline, social responsibility and harmony in strengthening communities.
The programme included the distribution of prizes to winners of a recently held “Sit and Draw” competition. The event was organised to encourage children and young participants to develop their artistic skills and creativity.
The winners were felicitated in the presence of officials and other guests.
A cultural programme by local artists was held after the formal proceedings. The performances showcased local talent and added a lively touch to the Gandhi Jayanti celebrations.
The observance concluded with participants recalling Gandhi’s message of peace, non-violence and service and reaffirming the relevance of these ideals in contemporary society.
The programme brought together representatives of the municipal council, administration and local community to commemorate Gandhi’s birth anniversary and reflect on his contribution to India’s freedom movement.
