The grandson of Mahatma Gandhi, a renowned historian and journalist Rajmohan Gandhi believes that peace-making is a tough goal but necessary. In the current scenario of the Israel-Hamas or Russia-Ukraine war the Gandhian philosophy of Ahimsa- or non-violence is absolutely needed and the Indian diaspora should play a significant role in spreading the ideology of Ahimsa.
Rajmohan Gandhi was speaking on the topic- “future role of the Indian Diaspora" at a special event organised by Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar as well as Anoopam Mission on 15 October 2023, at the Anoopam Mission, Denham.
Mr Gandhi said, “Mahatma Gandhi was a member of the diaspora and an NRI. Actually, he was global Gandhi, the one who felt at home wherever he lived. He was always curious about the place, getting involved quickly and making friends.
“India is no longer only the home of Indians. The whole world is now the home for the Indian people. It is not that India is pushing them out, but the world is pulling Indians in. Indians have a large-scale dynamic influence in the world. We all know that the Prime Minister of the UK is of Indian origin.
“We often talk about Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam which means ‘The world Is one family’. But whenever it comes to writing as an Indian writer, we choose subjects related to India. Why shouldn’t a writer of Indian origin think of writing about the Church of the UK? We should explore a global horizon,” said Rajmohan Gandhi. He also said that newspapers are crucial for upliftment of society, citing example of Mahatma Gandhi’s London visit.
CB Patel, Editor in Chief and Publisher of Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar said, “Anoopam Mission is a unique spiritual, cultural and social organisation serving for the upliftment of humanity and as the name itself mentions- it is incomparable. Under Sahebji’s farsightedness, the team of ordinary civilian sadhus is on a mission. Nakarja Family’s dedication, and devotion is unmatched. The volunteers and supporters are gems of the mission. Satishbhai Chatwani is a real diplomat and makes things happen. Including the first Hindu Crematorium, many projects are going on.
“Our guest speaker Mr Rajmohan Gandhi is doing those things which are not easy, not so popular, not giving name and fame. But gives satisfaction because he is on the way to serving humanity,” said CB.
President of International Committee of Anoopam Mission Satish Bhai Chatwani said, “Anoopam Mission is the centre for spiritual upliftment, empowerment, and social services. Sahebji always talked about inclusiveness, his efforts are to bring the community together. Because of his vision, the first ever Hindu-dedicated Crematorium is going to start for Hindus, Jains and Sikhs.”
Mayaben Deepak presented many bhajans which were close to Bapu and Padma Shri Dr Ganesh Devy and Prof Surekha Devi were especially present at this occasion.
The event proceedings were compered by Bhavisha Tailor. A vote of thanks was given by Group Editor Mahesh Liloriya.
Mr Gandhi also answered questions as asked by the audience.
Q: Subhash Thakrar asked, what was your personal relationship with your grandfather?
RMG: When he was 76-78, I was around 9–10 years old. My father was the Editor of the Hindustan Times in New Delhi. I went to prison when Kastur Ba died. Though I had a very short time with him, he always greeted me with great joy. His smile and thump on my back were a sign of affection. He taught us to use things properly and not to waste anything.
Q: Yogesh Nakarja asked, in today's world there is a huge battle against corruption, gender, and economic inequalities. How can we overcome?
RMG: There is no ready-made formula but the least I can do is to treat every human being equally regardless of background, race, religion, or colour. One must learn to appreciate instead of comparing.
Q: Yogendra bhai Patel asked, in today's world how do you perceive of Ahimsa?
RMG: Gandhi said, Ahimsa but he also said for Satyagraha. If Ahimsa doesn't bring a solution, it should be followed by Ahimsak Satyagrah Sanghrash. If in Hamas-Israel tension, if a non-violence resistance was there, there would be a different scenario. It is a wonderful solution.
Q: CA Mayuri Chordia asked, how do we achieve inclusiveness?
RMG: All of us can try. See, Indian and Pakistanis cannot meet if they are in India and Pakistan. But here in the UK, we can at least meet, read about each other, and make a progression.
Q: Sharad Raval asked, what if Bapu was alive in these days of social media?
RMG: No doubt he would use social media. He was a journalist and died as a journalist. The medium is more important.
