A fitting tribute to a great soul

Navin Shah, AM speaks for us all through his piece “Unveiling of Mahatma Gandhi’s Statue in Parliament Square” in last week’s AV. Undoubtedly Gandhi is “The Personality” of 20th Century, likes of him are born but once in our lifetime.
Indian diaspora’s desire to unveil Gandhi’s statue outside Parliament Square, mother of modern democracy was dream come true due to hard work and dedication on part of Lord Desai whose immense contribution was richly rewarded.
As usual, Gandhi has his fiduciary, subservient distractors in our own community. Then even Lord Rama, Jesus Christ, Nelson Mandela and Mother Teresa were not immune to such envy. Fortunately it is no more than water on duck’s back, moment of madness that has no relevance in ocean of hope, faith and freedom.    
One name Navinbhai forgot to mention is that of luminary Late Kavi Dayabhai Patel, who established Gandhi Memorial Society and wrote poem encompassing Gandhi’s life that stretches to several volumes. I am sure he is looking down on Gandhi’s statue with pride and satisfaction, his mission accomplished in his absence!
This was indeed truly momentous occasion that will remain cherished memory for millions who either attended inauguration ceremony or watched it on TV. I hope this will inspire our politicians to follow into Gandhi’s footsteps to serve nobly people of this country, as ossified politicians have such low esteem in people’s heart due to kidology, plutocracy and vote-bank politics.
Bhupendra M. Gandhi
By email