Dr Asangba Tzudir
The Father of the Nation Lives on
Today marks the 155th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. 2nd October as we know is the birthday of Gandhiji and is celebrated mainly to remember his role in India’s independence and his teachings of non-violence, truth, peace and Sarvodaya meaning ‘Universal Uplift’ or ‘Progress of All’. IN a fitting tribute, the United Nations has also declared October 2nd as the International Day of Non-Violence because of Gahdhiji’s philosophy of Satyagraha, which inspired movements for social justice and peace all over the world.
Gandhiji’s philosophy is very practical, and it encompasses political, moral and religious ideals, which can be said to be both traditional and modern because of Gandhiji’s rootedness and his western influences and which continues to harness universal moral, religious, economic and social principles. With the spiritual and religious element and with God at its core, it paves the way for individuals to develop morally and also reform as a human being. If not, mankind is headed for gloom and doom.
In this age of technology and the pursuit of material wealth, Ganghiji’s philosophy continues to prick our moral conscience with the question – Why do we have to be moral? Ganghiji continues to tell us the need to be moral what it means to live as a human being. That humanity needs an atmosphere of truth, love and peace and where everyone can engage in collective efforts to heal the fragmented world, and as moral beings it is the responsibility of humankind to build such an atmosphere.
Today, values of humanity continue to erode, and so it is not always about what is the truth or the right, but what one considers subjectively and beneficially good. So, it is not surprising to see most of the people engaged in rampant greed, widespread violence, and material style of living besides the larger issues of power, dominance and control. It is precisely to fight these big wars that Gandhian philosophy serves as a foundational framework in contemporary times.
Gandhiji’s foundational principles remain relevant touching upon pressing Global concerns such as human rights violations, sustainable development, socio-political instability and corruption. His philosophy is timeless and encourages us to challenge systems of oppression, social justice and to strive for peace in a world where there is chaos and growing violence.
In sum, Gandhian philosophy can be well applied to address the complex issues, problems and challenges of our times. His philosophy has shown us the way, and it is the moral duty to human beings to practically translate into action while speaking the language to truth, non-violence, peace, justice and social upliftment for all. As such, the name Mahatma Gandhi continues to live as an enduring symbol of peace, hope and inspiration, and without which life and what it means to live becomes meaningless.
(Dr Asangba Tzudir writes guest editorials for The Morung Express. Comments can be mailed to asangtz@gmail.com)
