World leaders to attend Satyagraha Centenary

By Staff
|
Google Oneindia News

New Delhi, Jan 21: World leaders and Peace activists will come next week to attend the Centenary celebrations of the historic "Satyagraha" launched by Mahatma Gandhi in South Africa.

The high-point of the year-long celebration, organised by the Congress Party, would be a two-day "International Conference" being held here from January 29.

The conference on "Peace, Non-Violence and Empowerment : Gandhian Philosophy in 21st Century," would culminate on January 30 with the adoption of a "Satyagraha Centenary Declaration" to re-emphasise the relevance of teachings and principles of the "Father of the Nation" in a world marked by conflict and violence.

Party President Sonia Gandhi has written personal letters to world leaders inviting them to attend the conference. At least six Heads of States and nearly 50 ministers from different countries have confirmed their participation in the mega event.

"There will be a participation of top dignitaries from at least 100 countries in the programme," a Party spokesman said here today.

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Sonia Gandhi will address the conference on the inaugural day, setting the trend for the two-day long discussion.

South Africa's Desmond Tutu, Bangladesh 's Sheikh Hasina and Begum Khalida Zia and Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ratnasiri Wickremanayake, Pakistan's Awami National Party President Afsandyar Wali Khan have confirmed their participation.

The list also included Peruvian Economist Hernando De Soto, Sri Lanka's Dr A T Ariyaratne, Bangladesh's Mohammed Yunus and intellectuals like C K Prahlad and Bhiku Parekh.

Mahatma Gandhi launched 'Satyagraha' in South Africa on September 11, 1906.

After first using the word "passive resistance" and then considering the use of the word "Sadagraha", Gandhiji finally amended it to "Satyagraha" to refer his movement against apartheid in South Africa.

"Gandhiji's satyagraha was without precedent or parallel because it combined the highest ethical principles with political activism in a noble cause," the Spokesman said.

"Today, the Indian National Congress reflects on its Gandhian legacy and renews its commitment to uphold that precious legacy in every way," he added.

UNI

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